On August 30, 2025, Boston will honor the legendary R&B group New Edition by declaring it “New Edition Day” and renaming a section of Dearborn Street to “New Edition Way.” This tribute marks the 42nd anniversary of the group’s formation in 1978 in Roxbury’s Orchard Park housing projects, now known as Orchard Gardens.
The ceremony will commence at 10 a.m. at the intersection of Ambrose and Albany Streets, where the street renaming will take place.
Following the ceremony, a community block party will be held at the Orchard Gardens Boys & Girls Club, featuring New Edition’s music, a youth backpack giveaway, free food, and family-friendly activities. The event is free and open to the public.
New Edition, consisting of Ronnie DeVoe, Bobby Brown, Ricky Bell, Michael Bivins, Ralph Tresvant, and Johnny Gill, is celebrated for pioneering the R&B-hip hop fusion with their 1983 hit “Candy Girl.” Their influence has been profound, inspiring numerous artists and shaping the modern boy band phenomenon.
The group’s deep ties to Boston are evident, with members maintaining strong community connections to Roxbury and the rest of the city.
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.” She emphasized that the celebration is a unique opportunity to bring Boston’s neighborhoods together in a celebration of culture, pride, and community.
The street renaming and festivities serve as a testament to New Edition’s enduring legacy and their significant role in Boston’s cultural identity. The event is expected to draw fans from across the city and beyond, all eager to pay homage to the group that put Boston on the musical map.
As the date approaches, anticipation is building for this historic occasion, which promises to be a memorable celebration of music, community, and the indelible mark New Edition has left on Boston’s cultural landscape.
I dont get the hype around New Edition. There are better artists from Boston who deserve recognition. Lets not forget about them!
I think New Edition deserves a whole week dedicated to them, not just a day! Lets make it happen, Boston! #NewEditionWeek
I dont get why New Edition gets a whole day in Boston. I mean, theyre cool and all, but what about other artists? Just saying!
Isnt it cool how Boston is recognizing New Edition? Wonder if other cities will start honoring their hometown legends too!
Is it really necessary to have an official day for a music group? Seems a bit excessive, dont you think?
Isnt it a bit much to have an official day for a music group? What about honoring other important figures in Boston?
Im not sure if dedicating a whole day to New Edition is necessary. Shouldnt we be honoring more important figures?
I mean, sure, New Edition is great and all, but does Boston really need to dedicate a whole official day to them? Seems a bit much.