New Edition, one of the most iconic R&B groups, has not only made a significant cultural impact with their music but also paved the way for its members to accumulate impressive fortunes. Each member has leveraged the success of the group to embark on lucrative solo careers, entrepreneurial ventures, and diverse business opportunities. Let’s take a closer look at each member’s path to wealth, starting from the least to the wealthiest, and explore how their fortunes were built.
6. Ronnie DeVoe – Net Worth: $15 Million
Ronnie DeVoe, often regarded as the “smooth operator” of New Edition, became a core member when the group was formed in 1978. DeVoe’s contributions to the group’s performances, coupled with his involvement in Bell Biv DeVoe (BBD), have been key drivers in his wealth.
Success with New Edition and Bell Biv DeVoe
DeVoe’s time with New Edition brought him early success with hits like “Candy Girl” and “Cool It Now.” However, his financial breakthrough came when he co-founded Bell Biv DeVoe alongside Ricky Bell and Michael Bivins. BBD’s debut album Poison went quadruple platinum, thanks to the title track’s massive success, becoming one of the defining sounds of the New Jack Swing era. The royalties and sales from both New Edition and BBD helped DeVoe establish his fortune.
Real Estate Business
Apart from music, Ronnie DeVoe ventured into the real estate business. He founded DeVoe Real Estate, a firm based in Atlanta, which specializes in helping first-time homebuyers. His success in the real estate market has diversified his income streams, boosting his estimated net worth to $15 million.
5. Ricky Bell – Net Worth: $15 Million
Ricky Bell, one of the original lead singers of New Edition, is a key figure both in the group’s success and as part of Bell Biv DeVoe. Known for his smooth voice and laid-back style, Bell has consistently stayed in the limelight through New Edition reunions and touring.
New Edition and BBD Contributions
Bell’s fortune stems primarily from his work with New Edition and Bell Biv DeVoe. As a founding member of New Edition, Bell contributed to many of the group’s biggest hits, including “Mr. Telephone Man” and “Can You Stand the Rain.” His work with BBD further cemented his legacy, with the Poison album selling millions of copies and creating an enduring fan base.
Solo Career
Though less commercially successful than his group projects, Bell’s solo album Ricardo Campana showcased his vocal abilities and added to his overall income. His continuous involvement in reunion tours, live performances, and New Edition albums has helped him maintain a net worth of approximately $15 million.
4. Johnny Gill – Net Worth: $20 Million
Johnny Gill joined New Edition in 1987, taking the group’s sound to new heights with his powerful voice and mature, soulful presence. Before joining the group, Gill was already an established solo artist, and his contributions to New Edition brought him even more recognition.
Success with New Edition and Solo Career
After joining New Edition, Gill became a driving force behind some of their most successful albums, including Heart Break and Home Again. His solo career also took off, with his self-titled 1990 album going double platinum and spawning hits like “My, My, My” and “Rub You the Right Way.” This solo success bolstered his net worth significantly.
Entrepreneurial Ventures
Johnny Gill’s wealth doesn’t just come from his music career. He is the co-owner of J Skillz Records, which releases his music and gives him greater control over his artistic output. He’s also made notable television appearances, acting in films and TV series, which have contributed to his estimated net worth of $20 million.
3. Bobby Brown – Net Worth: $25 Million
Bobby Brown, known as the “bad boy” of New Edition, catapulted to superstardom after leaving the group to pursue a solo career. His success as a solo artist, combined with his high-profile marriage to Whitney Houston, kept him in the public eye for decades.
Solo Success and Hit Albums
After parting ways with New Edition, Bobby Brown released his breakthrough album Don’t Be Cruel in 1988. The album went seven times platinum and produced several major hits, including “My Prerogative” and “Every Little Step.” Brown became one of the biggest pop and R&B stars of the late 1980s and early 1990s, and his massive record sales contributed significantly to his fortune.
Reality TV and Business Ventures
Brown’s marriage to Whitney Houston was famously chronicled in the reality TV show Being Bobby Brown, which brought in substantial revenue. He also authored an autobiography, Every Little Step, and has ventured into business with Bobby Brown Foods, a line of BBQ sauces and seasonings. Despite personal struggles and legal issues, Brown’s savvy business moves and ongoing music royalties have maintained his net worth at $25 million.
2. Ralph Tresvant – Net Worth: $25 Million
Ralph Tresvant, the original lead singer of New Edition, is often credited with shaping the group’s signature sound. His distinctive voice and charisma led to his success both within the group and as a solo artist.
New Edition and Solo Career Highlights
As New Edition’s lead vocalist, Tresvant delivered many of their early hits, including “Candy Girl,” “Cool It Now,” and “If It Isn’t Love.” In 1990, Tresvant launched a solo career with his self-titled debut album, which went platinum. The album produced the number-one R&B hit “Sensitivity,” which remains a staple of 90s R&B. His solo work, alongside his contributions to New Edition, has kept him in the public eye and added significantly to his wealth.
Acting and Radio Hosting
Beyond music, Tresvant has explored other areas of entertainment. He appeared in films such as House Party 2 and hosted a radio show, Inside the Ride with Ralph Tresvant. His combination of music, acting, and radio has helped him build a fortune estimated at $25 million.
1. Michael Bivins – Net Worth: $40 Million
At the top of the list is Michael Bivins, the wealthiest member of New Edition, with a staggering net worth of $40 million. Bivins has proven himself to be not only a talented artist but also a sharp businessman with a keen eye for talent and entrepreneurship.
Music Success with New Edition and Bell Biv DeVoe
Bivins’ journey to wealth started with New Edition’s success in the early 1980s, with hits like “Candy Girl” propelling the group to fame. However, his financial fortune grew exponentially when he co-founded Bell Biv DeVoe. The group’s 1990 debut album Poison became a cultural phenomenon, selling millions of copies and earning Bivins a steady stream of royalties.
Entrepreneurial Ventures: Biv 10 Records
Michael Bivins’ wealth is not solely derived from his music career. He founded Biv 10 Records, where he discovered and developed legendary acts like Boyz II Men, one of the most successful R&B groups of all time. His role in managing and promoting other successful artists, including Another Bad Creation and 702, has added millions to his fortune. Bivins is also involved in acting and producing, further diversifying his portfolio.
Conclusion
New Edition’s members have each crafted successful careers beyond the group, using their fame as a springboard for solo projects, business ventures, and other opportunities. Whether through music, real estate, or television, their financial success is a testament to their talent and entrepreneurial spirit. From Ronnie DeVoe’s real estate empire to Michael Bivins’ legendary music management career, each member has carved a unique path to wealth. At the top, Bivins reigns with a net worth of $40 million, leading the pack of this R&B powerhouse group.
