March 8th 2024.
One of the most beloved and influential singing groups of all time, New Edition, is set to receive a monumental honor at the 55th annual NAACP Image Awards. They will be inducted into the prestigious NAACP Image Awards Hall of Fame, a recognition reserved for those who have made significant contributions to their respective fields and have left a lasting impact for generations to come.
New Edition came together in 1978 in Boston, with the original members including Bobby Brown, Michael Bivens, Ronnie Devoe, Ricky Bell, and Ralph Tresvant. Their debut album, Candy Girl, was released in 1983 and quickly rose to No. 14 on the US R&B charts. Their self-titled sophomore album was even more successful, reaching No. 1 on the US Billboard chart and achieving double platinum certification.
Over the years, the group released seven studio albums together and also pursued solo projects. Lead singer Ralph Tresvant released his first self-titled solo album in 1990, followed by two more solo projects. Ricky Bell, Michael Bivens, and Ronnie Devoe formed BBD and had hits like "Poison" and "Can You Stand the Rain." Bobby Brown, who left New Edition in 1985, also had a successful solo career with chart-topping hits like "Every Little Step" and "My Prerogative." However, in 2009, he returned to his roots and rejoined the group, making it a six-member New Edition once again.
In November 2023, the group announced their highly anticipated Las Vegas residency, which kicked off on February 28 and will run until March 9, 2024. This is just one of the many achievements that have solidified New Edition's place in music history and made them worthy of this prestigious honor.
Another legendary musician who will be honored at the NAACP Image Awards is Frankie Beverly, of Frankie Beverly and Maze. He will receive the Lifetime Achievement award, which will be presented to him at the NAACP Image Awards Dinner on Thursday, March 14, in Los Angeles.
Frankie Beverly's illustrious career began in 1963 when he released his first song, "If That's What You Wanted," with his group, The Blenders. They later changed their name to Raw Soul and then Maze, and quickly gained popularity in the 1970s. Together, they released nine studio albums, all reaching gold status. They also had numerous chart-topping hits, including "Joy And Pain," "Happy Feelings," "Southern Girl," and the iconic "Before I Let Go," a staple at Black cookouts and parties.
Beverly recently announced that his upcoming tour, the "Farewell Tour," will be his last before retirement. The tour will kick off in Atlanta on March 22 and will culminate in Los Angeles on May 12 at the Kia Forum.
NAACP President and CEO Derrick Johnson expressed his excitement and honor in a press release, stating, "It is our distinct honor to celebrate New Edition and Frankie Beverly – two musical icons that have been instrumental in shaping our cultural landscape with their remarkable talent and enduring influence."
Fans can tune in to the 55th Annual NAACP Image Awards, airing live on Saturday, March 16, at 8 p.m. on BET and CBS, to witness these extraordinary artists receive the recognition they truly deserve. It will be a night to remember, filled with nostalgia, appreciation, and celebration of these phenomenal musicians and their contributions to the world of music.
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