New Edition got their due in Bean town. Boston officially showed love to one of its most iconic groups over the weekend, renaming a corner in Roxbury “New Edition Way” and declaring August 30 as “New Edition Day.”
Mayor Michelle Wu shared her pride in honoring the hometown legends, saying it was an “honor” to “welcome home Roxbury natives New Edition to celebrate their global impact, from our communities here in Boston to the music industry worldwide.”
The group members reflected on the moment with deep emotion. Bobby Brown called the recognition something that “means the world to me,” adding, “Boston is where it all began for us.” Ricky Bell echoed the sentiment, saying, “I am truly grateful for the privilege of being made a permanent fixture in our city that has played such a significant role in shaping our lives and career. It brings me immense joy to think that future generations of my family, friends, and #NE4Lifers from all over the world will be able to walk and drive down New Edition Way. This honor is mind-blowing in the most awesome way. 02119 IS and WILL always be my home.”
Johnny Gill described the milestone to VIBE as “prestigious,” while Michael Bivins said the day felt like a “full circle” moment. Ronnie DeVoe added powerful words of reflection: “It’s a testament to the gifts that God gave us and the talents that God gave us and Uncle [Brooke Payne] honing those skills to the point where the rough turned into the diamonds that we are today. To connect to our city and be recognized with something that’s going to be there forever is truly amazing.”
All six members of New Edition joined the community for a massive block party in front of the Orchard Gardens Boys & Girls Club. The event brought together fans, local residents, former BET executive Stephen Hill, and others for an afternoon filled with music, free food, youth backpack giveaways, fun activities, and of course, a special appearance by the group themselves.