At 57, Ronnie DeVoe has finally broken his silence about the longstanding rumors surrounding the legendary R&B group New Edition.

 

 

For decades, fans have speculated about the internal conflicts and scandals that plagued the group, and now Ronnie is ready to set the record straight.

What could he possibly reveal that would shock the world?

The truth is, the members of New Edition are not just a talented ensemble; they are also individuals who have faced their fair share of drama and controversy.

From financial struggles to personal battles, the journey of New Edition is far more complex than their catchy hits suggest.

Ronnie’s revelations shed light on the darker side of fame that many fans have never seen.

Back in the 1980s, New Edition was one of the biggest R&B groups globally, often compared to the Jackson 5.

With hit songs like “Candy Girl,” they dominated the charts and sold out concerts, captivating millions of fans.

However, behind the glitz and glamour, the group was grappling with numerous challenges.

Initially formed by Bobby Brown, Ricky Bell, and Michael Bivins, the group later expanded to include Ralph Tresvant and Ronnie DeVoe.

They were just kids when they launched their music careers, performing in local talent shows and dreaming of stardom.

Their big break came when music producer Maurice Starr discovered them and helped them release their first hit.

The success of “Candy Girl” catapulted them into the spotlight, leading to a lucrative record deal with MCA.

Their self-titled album released in 1984 included popular tracks like “Cool It Now” and “Mr. Telephone Man,” selling over two million copies.

Despite their success, not everything was smooth sailing.

Bobby Brown began to feel stifled by the group’s image and sought to break free from their wholesome persona.

His desire to be more edgy and grown-up led to conflicts within the group.

Bobby’s behavior became increasingly erratic, and he started missing shows, which frustrated his bandmates.

During a particularly explosive moment in 1985, Bobby threw a microphone at Michael Bivins, showcasing the rising tensions within the group.

Bobby later admitted, “I was tired of the teeny bop thing. I wanted to grow as a performer and as a man.”

Ultimately, his rebellious attitude led to his dismissal from New Edition in 1986.

While Bobby embarked on a successful solo career, New Edition continued to navigate their own challenges.

Years later, the group reunited for a tour, but Bobby’s health issues forced him to leave early.

Despite the ups and downs, the bond among the members remained strong.

In 1996, New Edition released the album *Home Again*, marking the return of all six original members, including Bobby.

The album debuted at number one on the charts, a testament to their enduring popularity.

However, the reunion tour was marred by chaos.

During one performance, Bobby’s extended stage time led to a physical altercation with Ronnie DeVoe.

This incident escalated quickly, resulting in gunshots being fired, sending fans into a panic.

Fortunately, no one was injured, but the chaos highlighted the underlying issues within the group.

Johnny Gill, another member of New Edition, described the tour as feeling more like a rock and roll experience than an R&B one.

With each member having their own tour bus filled with friends and hangers-on, the atmosphere became increasingly chaotic.

Johnny noted, “Everyone knew Bobby was not in a good place at that time. You could see it on his face and in the way he acted.”

The combination of drugs and personal struggles took a toll on Bobby, impacting the entire group’s dynamic.

After the gunfire incident, Michael Bivins and Bobby Brown left the tour, leaving the remaining members to finish it without them.

The once-promising reunion tour had devolved into a disappointing experience, with financial losses and emotional scars.

As the group faced mounting pressure, Johnny Gill remained committed to giving fans the performances they deserved.

Despite the turmoil, he took pride in never missing a show, showcasing his dedication to the group and its fans.

Looking back, Johnny reflected on the challenges they faced, stating, “There was success, but also chaos. There was love, but also fights.”

The *Home Again* tour served as a reminder of both the power and problems that come with fame.

Ricky Bell also faced his own battle with addiction, which was kept hidden until the release of the BET documentary *The New Edition Story*.

Fans were shocked to learn that Ricky had struggled with drugs, similar to Bobby, but had managed to keep his issues largely private.

Ricky’s addiction began in the mid-1990s, during the production of the *Home Again* album, and escalated over the years.

He eventually hit rock bottom when his wife found him unconscious after an overdose, prompting him to seek help.

Today, Ricky is clean and happily married, using his story to inspire others facing similar struggles.

Throughout their journey, the members of New Edition have had to confront not only their personal demons but also the challenges posed by the music industry.

From financial disputes to personal conflicts, their story is a testament to the complexities of fame.

Ronnie DeVoe’s recent confirmation of the rumors surrounding New Edition sheds light on the hidden battles these artists have faced.

As fans reflect on the group’s legacy, it’s essential to acknowledge the human stories behind the music.

The journey of New Edition is not just about chart-topping hits; it’s about resilience, recovery, and the enduring power of friendship.

With Ronnie’s revelations, fans can gain a deeper understanding of the trials and triumphs that have shaped New Edition into the iconic group they are today.