"New Kids on the Block, from Dorchester, Massachusetts, is an American boy band that achieved global fame in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Selling over 80 million records worldwide, the group, consisting of brothers Jonathan and Jordan Knight, Joey McIntyre, Donnie Wahlberg, and Danny Wood, is acknowledged as a major influence on later successful boy bands such as Take That, Backstreet Boys, and NSYNC. Among their many achievements, they won two American Music Awards in 1990 and were the first pop music group to perform at the Super Bowl halftime show in 1991."
1984: Formation
New Kids on the Block were formed in Dorchester, Massachusetts in 1984.
April 1986: Debut Album Release
New Kids on the Block released their self-titled debut album in April 1986 under Columbia Records. Primarily a bubblegum pop record, the album received lukewarm reception, with singles like "Be My Girl" and "Stop It Girl" failing to gain traction.
1987: Recording of Second Album Begins
Following the underwhelming performance of their debut album, New Kids on the Block returned to the studio in 1987 to begin work on their second album.
1988: "Hangin' Tough" Release and Early Struggles
New Kids on the Block released their second album, "Hangin' Tough," in September 1988. Despite their desire for a more mature sound, the album's lead single, "Please Don't Go Girl," initially failed to gain widespread attention, nearly leading to their label dropping them.
April 24, 1989: New Kids on the Block Day
In a gesture celebrating their success, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts declared April 24, 1989, as "New Kids on the Block Day".
1989: "Hangin' Tough" Documentary Release
A documentary titled "Hangin' Tough" about New Kids on the Block, directed by Doug Nichol, was released on VHS in 1989. The documentary, which featured the band's hit music videos and live concert footage, was a commercial success, even garnering a Grammy nomination.
1989: Rise to Stardom
In 1989, New Kids on the Block achieved mainstream success, an accomplishment that Rolling Stone magazine later ranked as number 16 on their list of "Top 25 Teen Idol Breakout Moments".
1989: Name Change and Early Marketing
In 1989, it was revealed that Columbia Records, the band's label, had pushed for a name change from Nynuk to New Kids on the Block. This decision was based on a rap song Donnie Wahlberg had written. Initially, the group was marketed towards black audiences.
1989: Breakthrough with "Please Don't Go Girl" and Rise in Popularity
In a turn of events, "Please Don't Go Girl" gained traction after being played on a Florida radio station in 1989. This led to increased promotion from Columbia Records and the song became their first hit, reaching the top 10 on Billboard's Hot 100 chart. The group's popularity further surged with the release of "You Got It (The Right Stuff)" which received significant airplay on MTV.
1989: Chart-Topping Success and Continued Popularity
New Kids on the Block achieved major success in 1989 as "Hangin' Tough" reached number one on the Billboard 200 Albums Chart, eventually going eight-times platinum. The group became the first teen act to have five top-ten hits from a single album. They also released a cover of The Delfonics' "Didn't I (Blow Your Mind This Time)" which reached number 8 on the charts, boosting the sales of their debut album.
1990: The Magic Summer Tour
In 1990, New Kids on the Block embarked on their highly successful "The Magic Summer Tour," sponsored by Coke, which grossed $74 million and drew an audience of 3.2 million. This tour solidified their standing as a top-grossing act.
1990: American Music Awards
In 1990, New Kids on the Block won two American Music Awards, one for Favorite Pop/Rock Band, Duo, or Group and another for Favorite Pop/Rock Album.
1990: "Step by Step" Release and International Success
New Kids on the Block released their third studio album, "Step by Step," in 1990. The title track became their biggest-selling single, topping the charts. The album achieved triple-platinum status and marked their significant international breakthrough.
1991: Super Bowl XXV Halftime Show
New Kids on the Block made history in 1991 by becoming the first popular music group to perform during the Super Bowl XXV halftime show.
1991: European and Asian Tour and Marky Mark and the Funky Bunch Debut
While taking a break from releasing new music in 1991, New Kids on the Block toured Europe and Asia. That same year, Donnie Wahlberg collaborated with his brother Mark Wahlberg, a former New Kid, to produce Marky Mark and the Funky Bunch's debut album, which achieved platinum status and featured the chart-topping hit "Good Vibrations."
1991: Fan Club, Hotline, Forbes Recognition, and Remix Album
In 1991, New Kids on the Block boasted a fan club membership exceeding 200,000 and a dedicated hotline receiving 100,000 calls weekly. Their popularity earned them the top spot on Forbes' list of highest-paid entertainers. The same year, they released "No More Games/The Remix Album," featuring remixed versions of their hit songs.
1991: Merchandise Success and Estimated Earnings
By 1991, New Kids on the Block had generated an estimated US$400 million in merchandise sales, highlighting their massive popularity. This success contributed to their estimated earnings that year.
February 10, 1992: Defamation Lawsuit Against Gregory McPherson
On February 10, 1992, New Kids on the Block took legal action against Gregory McPherson, filing a defamation lawsuit in response to his allegations of lip-syncing.
April 1992: Resolution of Legal Dispute with Gregory McPherson
In April 1992, Gregory McPherson decided to drop his lawsuit against Maurice Starr and publicly retracted his previous allegations of lip-syncing by New Kids on the Block. He issued a statement confirming that the group did sing lead vocals.
1992: Release of "If You Go Away" and Lip-Syncing Allegations
In 1992, New Kids on the Block released the single "If You Go Away," which achieved chart success. However, they faced accusations of lip-syncing from Gregory McPherson, an associate producer on their previous album. McPherson alleged that Maurice Starr provided the vocals for their performances, leading to a legal dispute.
1993: Name Change to NKOTB and Split from Maurice Starr
In 1993, New Kids on the Block underwent significant changes by shortening their name to NKOTB and parting ways with their producer, Maurice Starr, marking a new phase in their career.
January 1994: Release of "Face the Music" Album
In January 1994, NKOTB released their fourth studio album, "Face the Music," after a nearly four-year hiatus. The album marked a departure from their previous work, with the group taking a more active role in songwriting and production. Despite some positive critical reception, the album fell short of commercial expectations.
1994: Disbandment
After experiencing both highs and lows in their career, New Kids on the Block made the decision to disband in 1994.
1999: Post-Split Activities and MTV Reunion Attempt
After their split, the members of NKOTB pursued individual paths, with some starting families and others continuing in the entertainment industry. Notably, Joey McIntyre and Jordan Knight released solo albums in 1999. MTV attempted to reunite the group for a performance at the VMAs, but Jonathan Knight's refusal prevented it from happening.
2004: VH1's "Bands Reunited" Attempt
In 2004, VH1's "Bands Reunited" made efforts to bring NKOTB back together for a one-off performance. While Jonathan Knight agreed, Donnie Wahlberg, Danny Wood, and Joey McIntyre declined. McIntyre stated he would only participate in a permanent reunion.
2007: Reunion and Album Recording
New Kids on the Block decided to reunite in 2007 with the aim of recording a new album.
April 2008: Confirmation of Reunion and Plans for New Music
In April 2008, Donnie Wahlberg publicly confirmed the long-awaited reunion of New Kids on the Block. The group announced their plans to record new music and embark on a tour, marking their official comeback.
August 12, 2008: Release of "Single" featuring Ne-Yo
On August 12, 2008, New Kids on the Block released "Single," their second single since their reunion, featuring R&B singer Ne-Yo. The song built anticipation for their upcoming album.
September 2008: Release of "The Block" Album
New Kids on the Block released "The Block," their first studio album in 14 years, in September 2008. The album marked their successful return to the music scene, debuting at No. 1 on the Billboard Top Pop Albums Chart and No. 2 on the Billboard 200.
September 18, 2008: Launch of "New Kids on the Block: Live" Tour
New Kids on the Block kicked off their highly anticipated reunion tour, "New Kids on the Block: Live," on September 18, 2008, at the Air Canada Centre in Toronto. The tour featured Natasha Bedingfield and Lady Gaga as supporting acts.
October 2008: "The Block" Certified Gold in Canada
In October 2008, New Kids on the Block's comeback album, "The Block," achieved Gold certification in Canada, reflecting its commercial success.
2008: Concert Tour
Following the release of their reunion album, New Kids on the Block embarked on a concert tour in 2008.
2009: Extensive Touring, Theme Cruise, and "Full Service Tour" Announcement
Throughout 2009, New Kids on the Block continued their successful reunion tour, performing in Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Ireland, France, the Netherlands, and Germany. They also hosted a themed concert cruise for their fans and announced the "Full Service Tour" featuring Jesse McCartney and Jabbawockeez.
June 19, 2010: Surprise Collaboration with Backstreet Boys at Radio City Music Hall
On June 19, 2010, New Kids on the Block surprised fans with a collaborative performance with the Backstreet Boys at Radio City Music Hall, sparking rumors of a joint tour.
August 13, 2010: Tickets on Sale for Third Annual NKOTB Cruise
Tickets for the third annual NKOTB cruise went on sale on August 13, 2010, and quickly sold out. The cruise, scheduled for May 2011, demonstrated the enduring popularity of the band.
August 18, 2010: Unofficial Announcement of NKOTB and Backstreet Boys Tour
An unofficial announcement on August 18, 2010, hinted at a joint tour featuring New Kids on the Block and the Backstreet Boys, following their successful collaboration at Radio City Music Hall.
October 8, 2010: Brian Littrell Comments on Tour Possibility and Collaboration with Donnie Wahlberg
Backstreet Boys member Brian Littrell addressed the tour rumors on October 8, 2010, giving it a 78% chance of happening. He also mentioned working on music with Donnie Wahlberg, further fueling speculation.
November 3, 2010: NKOTBSB Tour Announcement
On November 3, 2010, New Kids on the Block and the Backstreet Boys announced a joint tour for the following summer with Jordin Sparks and Ashlyne Huff.
2010: Jordan Knight's Cruise Announcement and Individual Projects
Following their tour, the members of New Kids on the Block took a break to pursue individual endeavors. Jordan Knight announced a new concert cruise for 2010. Donnie Wahlberg and Joey McIntyre also worked on their own music projects.
May 2011: Matthew Morrison Joins NKOTBSB Tour
In May 2011, actor and singer Matthew Morrison revealed he would be joining the NKOTBSB tour.
May 25, 2011: NKOTBSB Tour Begins
The highly anticipated NKOTBSB tour, featuring New Kids on the Block and the Backstreet Boys, kicked off on May 25, 2011.
2011: Potential for NKOTB and Backstreet Boys Tour
The possibility of a highly anticipated joint tour featuring New Kids on the Block and the Backstreet Boys remained a hot topic in 2011, with fans eagerly awaiting an official confirmation.
June 2012: NKOTBSB Tour Concludes
After a successful run, The NKOTBSB tour concluded in June 2012.
June 22, 2012: Hollywood Walk of Fame Announcement
On June 22, 2012, New Kids on the Block was chosen to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2013.
2012: "Nynuk" Meaning Revealed
Nikki Van Noy, author of the band's official biography, stated in 2012 that the name "Nynuk" held no particular meaning.
January 22, 2013: New Album and Tour Announcement
During an appearance on "The View" on January 22, 2013, NKOTB announced a new single "Remix (I Like The)", a new album "10", and a North American tour with 98 Degrees and Boyz II Men.
April 2, 2013: Release of Album "10"
On April 2, 2013, NKOTB released their new album "10" to mixed to positive reviews, reaching number 6 on the Billboard 200 chart.
May 30, 2013: Boston Strong Telethon Performance
On May 30, 2013, NKOTB, alongside Boyz II Men, performed for the Boston Strong telethon.
February 3, 2014: European Tour Announcement
On February 3, 2014, NKOTB announced their European Tour 2014, a series of intimate shows across Europe.
October 9, 2014: Hollywood Walk of Fame Star
NKOTB received their star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on October 9, 2014.
2014: Hollywood Walk of Fame Star
In recognition of their significant contribution to the music industry, New Kids on the Block received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2014.
January 2015: The Main Event Tour and Reality Show Premiere
In January 2015, NKOTB announced their summer tour "The Main Event" with TLC and Nelly and premiered their reality show "Rock This Boat: New Kids on the Block" on Pop.
November 2016: The Total Package Tour Announcement
The group announced "The Total Package Tour" with Paula Abdul and Boyz II Men in November 2016, marking Abdul's return to touring after two decades.
December 9, 2016: Appearance on "Fuller House"
NKOTB made a special appearance on the "Fuller House" episode "New Kids in the House," performing some of their hits and celebrating DJ Tanner's birthday. The episode aired on December 9, 2016.
March 2017: "One More Night" Single Release
NKOTB performed their new single "One More Night" on "The Late Late Show with James Corden" in March 2017, later included on their EP "Thankful".
December 2017: "Thankful (Unwrapped)" Release and Documentary Announcement
In December 2017, NKOTB released an expanded version of "Thankful" and announced a documentary about their summer tour.
October 2018: MixTape Tour Announcement
NKOTB announced their MixTape Tour, featuring 80s and 90s acts, in October 2018.
December 13, 2018: New Year's Rockin' Eve Performance
NKOTB were confirmed to perform on Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve 2019 in Times Square.
March 2, 2019: "Boys in the Band" Release
NKOTB released the music video for "Boys in the Band (Boy Band Anthem)" on March 2, 2019, featuring cameos and references to numerous boy bands.
May 2, 2019: MixTape Tour Begins
The MixTape Tour, headlined by NKOTB, began in Cincinnati, Ohio.
2020: "House Party" Release
During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, NKOTB released the single "House Party," featuring collaborations with Naughty by Nature, Boyz II Men, Big Freedia, and Jordin Sparks.
August 6, 2021: Fenway Park Concert
NKOTB performed at Fenway Park in Boston on August 6, 2021, with Bell Biv Devoe as special guests and a surprise appearance by D-Nice.
March 3, 2022: "Bring Back the Time" Release
The music video for "Bring Back the Time" was released on March 3, 2022, featuring Salt-N-Pepa, Rick Astley, and En Vogue, with nostalgic parodies of iconic 1980s music videos.
March 5, 2024: "Kids" Single and Music Video Release
The first single and music video from "Still Kids," titled "Kids," was released on March 5, 2024.
March 2024: New Album and Tour Announcement
NKOTB announced their first album in eleven years, "Still Kids," to be released on May 17, 2024, and their "NKOTB Magic Summer 2024 Tour" with Paula Abdul and DJ Jazzy Jeff.
May 17, 2024: "Still Kids" Album Release
"Still Kids," NKOTB's eighth studio album, is set for release on May 17, 2024.
June 2024: NKOTB Magic Summer 2024 Tour
The "NKOTB Magic Summer 2024 Tour" is scheduled to begin in June 2024.