Boston is set to honor its hometown R&B legends, New Edition, by declaring August 30 as “New Edition Day.” This special day will commemorate the 42nd anniversary of the group’s formation in 1978. The celebration will include a street renaming ceremony and a community block party in Roxbury, the neighborhood where New Edition began their journey.
The festivities will commence at 10 a.m. with the official renaming of Dearborn Street to “New Edition Way.” This ceremony will take place at the intersection of Ambrose and Albany streets in Roxbury, near the Orchard Gardens Boys & Girls Club, a significant location in the group’s early history. Following the street renaming, a community block party will be held at 11 a.m. in front of the Orchard Gardens Boys & Girls Club. The event will feature music, free food, family–friendly activities, and a special appearance by members of New Edition.
Additionally, there will be a youth backpack giveaway to support local students.
Mayor Michelle Wu expressed her enthusiasm for the event, stating, “It is 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.” She emphasized that the day would serve as a unique opportunity to bring Boston’s neighborhoods together in a celebration of culture, pride, and community.
New Edition, consisting of members Ronnie DeVoe, Bobby Brown, Ricky Bell, Michael Bivins, Ralph Tresvant, and Johnny Gill, formed in Roxbury’s Orchard Park housing projects in 1978. They gained prominence with their 1983 hit “Candy Girl,” which pioneered the R&B-hip hop fusion genre. The group’s influence has been profound, inspiring numerous artists and leaving an indelible mark on the music industry.
Bobby Brown, a founding member of New Edition, shared his sentiments about the honor, saying, “Boston is where it all began for us. This honor means the world to me.” The group’s enduring connection to their Boston roots is evident in their continued engagement with the community and their support for local initiatives.
The upcoming events aim to celebrate New Edition’s lasting legacy and their significant contributions to Boston’s cultural identity. Residents and fans are encouraged to participate in the day’s activities to honor the group’s achievements and the positive impact they have had on the city.
For more information about the events and how to participate, residents can visit the official City of Boston website or contact the Roxbury community center.
Leave a comment