A Celebration of R&B Greatness

Two of the most influential groups in R&B history — New Edition and Boyz II Men — sat down with The Breakfast Club to discuss their highly anticipated joint tour alongside Toni Braxton, their deep-rooted brotherhood, and their perspectives on the evolving state of R&B music.

The conversation was filled with laughter, reflection, and heartfelt insight, as both groups looked back on their journeys and ahead to what promises to be one of the most soulful tours of the decade.

The Tour: Timing, Energy, and Legacy

At the top of the interview, the groups revealed details about their joint tour, sharing how the idea came together.

Bringing together two powerhouse acts — along with Toni Braxton — requires more than just star power. As they explained, scheduling, good energy, and the right timing were crucial to making the collaboration happen.

“It’s not just about music — it’s about respect, timing, and making sure the energy is right,” one member noted, emphasizing how the chemistry between the acts is what makes this tour feel special.

The upcoming concerts are expected to be nothing short of epic, blending nostalgia with timeless artistry.

Brotherhood Beyond Music

Throughout the discussion, Boyz II Men spoke with deep admiration for New Edition, calling them their idols and inspiration. They shared the true story behind their first meeting — clearing up the popular misconception that they sang for New Edition on a tour bus.
The real story took place backstage in Philadelphia, where Boyz II Men serenaded their heroes in a moment that changed their lives forever.

Both groups described their bond as a brotherhood built on mutual respect, forgiveness, and shared history.

“We’ve had our ups and downs, like brothers do,” one New Edition member reflected. “But what matters is how you come back together, stronger and more grateful than before.”

The conversation also touched on growth and maturity — how, over time, each group has learned to appreciate not only their collective success but also each member’s unique contributions to their legacy.

The Show: Three Hours of Pure R&B Magic

When asked about the upcoming concerts, both groups laughed about the show’s likely length — up to three hours long, given their combined catalog of hits.

They plan to curate a joint setlist that not only features fan favorites but also tells a story — a narrative about their shared history, struggles, and triumphs in the music industry.

“It’s not just about hits,” they explained. “It’s about taking the audience on a journey through what R&B has meant to us — and to them.”

The Evolution of R&B and Industry Challenges

One of the most thought-provoking parts of the interview centered on the current state of R&B. Both New Edition and Boyz II Men lamented the decline of R&B groups in modern times, attributing it to what they called the “YouTube society” — a culture focused on quick fame rather than long-term artistry.

They also criticized record labels for favoring computer-generated hits over genuine talent, leading to a lack of artist development and short-lived careers.

“Back then, labels groomed longevity,” they said. “Now it’s all about numbers, not soul.”

Despite these challenges, they emphasized that today’s artists could find success by studying the blueprint laid down by groups like theirs — rooted in authenticity, teamwork, and respect for the craft.

Reinventing the Moves

In a lighter moment, members of both groups confessed to songs and dance routines they’d rather skip.
Boyz II Men admitted they weren’t fans of performing “In the Still of the Night” due to the stressful circumstances surrounding its recording. Meanwhile, New Edition joked about the tough choreography behind “If It Isn’t Love” and the challenging leg move in “You’re Not My Kind of Girl.”

Still, both groups promised fans that the upcoming shows would feature fresh choreography — reinvented versions of the classics fans love.

The Fans: Timeless Connection

Both groups took a moment to thank their fans, acknowledging how deeply their music continues to resonate across generations.
They mentioned listeners like Jess, a devoted fan whose emotional reaction to their music reminded them of its lasting power.

“When people tell us our music helped them through something — that’s what it’s all about,” they said.

Thriving Without the Internet Hype

Despite today’s fast-changing industry, both New Edition and Boyz II Men proudly shared that their business is thriving. They continue to sell out arenas, proving that authentic connection and live performance still matter more than follower counts or viral moments.

“We’re not chasing clout — we’re chasing quality,” one member declared. “The real fans are still out there.”

Watch the Full Interview

Catch the full conversation with New Edition and Boyz II Men on The Breakfast Club YouTube channel to hear their insights, laughter, and love for R&B in their own words.

🎥 Watch here: The Breakfast Club – New Edition & Boyz II Men Interview