The pop group New Kids on the Block was on the peak of its popularity in the 1990s when its songs managed to top Billboard Hot 100 numerous times. Its main hit is “Step By Step”. According to Forbes Magazine, in 1990, the band was more financially successful than Madonna and Michael Jackson. With time, the group became less popular since rap and grunge were the choice of the younger generation. In 1994, the band fell apart for some time. However, it still performs and manages to inspire new boy bands.
The band’s story began in the 1980s when Maurice Starr formed an R&B band New Edition. Soon, he left it and together with a business partner, decided to move forward to create a more popular project. They noted a 15-year-old aspiring artist with impressive vocal and dancing talents. It was Donnie Wahlberg. He became the first member of the successful band. Donnie helped Starr find the rest of the group members. He invited his younger brother Mike and friends Jamie Kelly and Danny Wood. Wahlberg also convinced one of his ex-classmates, Jordan Knight, to go through an audition. Starr eventually accepted Jordan and his older brother Jonathan.
The band was formed. However, Mike Walberg soon left it to pursue an acting career. At first, Jamie Kelly replaced him. Later, the group invited Joey McIntyre to take his place. After spending months rehearsing new songs, Starr announced that the new group will be called Nynuk. They signed a contract with Columbia Records to record one album. However, the label asked to change the name. Starr came up with New Kids on the Block.
