New Edition Brings R&B Royalty to Chicago

Iconic group joins Boyz II Men and Toni Braxton for career-spanning tour

Published on Feb. 5, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Nearly 50 years after forming in Boston, the members of New Edition showed they still have what it takes to captivate audiences as they brought their New Edition Way Tour to Chicago's United Center on Wednesday. Joined by fellow R&B icons Boyz II Men and Toni Braxton, the six-piece group delivered a career-spanning, three-hour production that highlighted their enduring influence on the genre.

Why it matters

New Edition's legacy as pioneers of the modern boy band and R&B sound has cemented their status as kings of the genre. This tour represents a rare opportunity for fans to witness three of R&B's most celebrated acts share the stage, showcasing the breadth of their collective impact on music over the past five decades.

The details

The New Edition Way Tour featured a rotating lineup of performances, with all three acts collaborating on each other's hit songs. Highlights included New Edition's classic '80s anthems like "Mr. Telephone Man" and "Candy Girl," Boyz II Men's smooth harmonies on tracks like "Water Runs Dry" and "One Sweet Day," and Toni Braxton's powerful vocals on "You're Makin' Me High" and "Un-Break My Heart." The show also spotlighted the members' successful solo careers, with Bobby Brown, Ralph Tresvant, and Johnny Gill all delivering standout performances.

  • The New Edition Way Tour kicked off a week ago in Oakland, California.
  • The Chicago stop at the United Center took place on Wednesday, February 4, 2026.

The players

New Edition

An American R&B vocal group formed in Boston in 1978, considered pioneers of the modern boy band sound and influential figures in the evolution of R&B music.

Boyz II Men

A popular American R&B vocal group formed in Philadelphia in the late 1980s, known for their smooth harmonies and romantic ballads.

Toni Braxton

An American R&B singer-songwriter who rose to fame in the 1990s, known for her powerful vocals and emotional ballads.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“This is a night of excellence, commitment, showmanship and dedication at the highest of levels. And all six of us on one stage? C'mon y'all!”

— Ronnie DeVoe, Member of New Edition (suntimes.com)

“They represent the New Edition family tree to the fullest.”

— Michael Bivins, Member of New Edition (suntimes.com)

“You all know I have that stupid lupus and doctors told me I'd never ever be able to perform again. But New Edition and Boyz II Men, they said you can't stop performing, come out with us. Thank you for putting me on the stage.”

— Toni Braxton (suntimes.com)

What’s next

The New Edition Way Tour is scheduled to continue its run across North America throughout 2026, with upcoming stops in major cities like New York, Atlanta, and Los Angeles.

The takeaway

The New Edition Way Tour is a testament to the enduring appeal and influence of these R&B icons. By bringing together three of the genre's most celebrated acts, the show not only satisfies nostalgic fans but also highlights the profound impact these artists have had on contemporary music. Their collaborative spirit and commitment to delivering an unforgettable performance solidifies New Edition, Boyz II Men, and Toni Braxton's status as true kings and queens of R&B.