New Edition Nominated for Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

Bobby Brown says the group's nomination 'feels incredible' after nearly 50 years together.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

New Edition, the veteran R&B vocal group from Boston, has been nominated for induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. The group, which includes members Bobby Brown, Ricky Bell, Michael Bivins, Ronnie DeVoe, Johnny Gill, and Ralph Tresvant, formed in the 1970s and released their debut album 'Candy Girl' in 1983. After nearly 50 years together, the group is thrilled to be recognized with this nomination.

Why it matters

New Edition's nomination to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is a significant milestone for the group, which has had a long and successful career in R&B music. The nomination comes 43 years after the release of their debut album and recognizes the group's lasting impact and influence on the music industry.

The details

New Edition was formed in the 1970s by a group of childhood friends from the Orchard Park public housing projects in Roxbury, Boston. Inspired by artists like Michael Jackson and the Jackson 5, the group released their debut album 'Candy Girl' in 1983, which featured hits like the title track, 'Popcorn Love,' and 'Is This the End.' The group is now being recognized for their contributions to R&B music with a nomination to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

  • New Edition formed in the 1970s.
  • The group released their debut album 'Candy Girl' in 1983.
  • New Edition was nominated for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2026.

The players

New Edition

An R&B vocal group from Boston that formed in the 1970s and released their debut album 'Candy Girl' in 1983.

Bobby Brown

A charter member of New Edition and the group's lead singer.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“It feels incredible. Just knowing that our prayers are being answered and everything is going in the direction that we had hoped for, and we wished upon, and we worked hard for ... it's a great thing ... we're really happy to be a part of this.”

— Bobby Brown, Charter Member of New Edition (Boston Globe)

“We still don't own a Grammy. And we still have aspirations of being in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.”

— Michael Bivins, Member of New Edition (Boston Globe)

What’s next

New Edition is gearing up to launch the New Edition Way tour on Friday, March 13 with guests Boyz II Men and Toni Braxton. The group is aware that a nomination does not guarantee induction, so they and their fans will need to continue advocating for their inclusion in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

The takeaway

New Edition's Rock & Roll Hall of Fame nomination is a testament to the group's longevity and influence in the R&B genre. After nearly 50 years together, the group's members are thrilled to be recognized for their contributions to music, and this nomination serves as a culmination of their lifelong dreams and hard work.