
New Kids on The Block Announces 35th Anniversary Reissue of Album

New Kids on the Block, more commonly known as NKOTB, have thrilled fans with the announcement of a 35th anniversary reissue of their iconic 1990 album, Step By Step. This special edition re-release is set to be available on June 13, marking a monumental moment in their career as the album had previously topped the Billboard 200 chart at its original release. The reissued album will include previously unreleased tracks, new remixes, live performances, and archival content. This brings nostalgic delight to the group’s fanbase, offering not just a trip down memory lane but also an audible expansion of the band’s musical legacy.
The reissue is set against a backdrop of excitement as NKOTB prepares to embark on their first-ever Las Vegas residency titled “The Right Stuff” at Dolby Live at Park MGM. Starting on June 20, 2025, this residency will feature a series of performances spread across three sessions ending in February 2026. The show promises to be an immersive experience for fans, complete with not only their greatest hits but also new thematic and interactive elements designed to offer a unique concert experience. Las Vegas, a city synonymous with high-level entertainment and showmanship, is an ideal location for the New Kids to deliver their innovative live shows. According to band member Donnie Wahlberg, the residency is intended to elevate their performance and fan interaction to unprecedented levels.
Aside from the residency, NKOTB continues to explore innovative ways to connect with fans, notably teaming up with the Calm app to release “Step By Step To Sleep,” a narrated sleep story featuring their personal tips and anecdotes. This marks the first collaboration of its kind with a boy band for the app, providing fans with a relaxing and nostalgic audio experience. This move showcases the band’s willingness to engage in modern trends and cater to their audience in creative manners that transcend traditional music platforms.
NKOTB’s preparations for the Las Vegas shows are just as impressive. The residency promises to be filled with surprises and engaging events including exclusive after-parties hosted by Donnie Wahlberg at the On the Record Speakeasy inside Park MGM. The after-parties are expected to be vibrant gatherings with special guest DJs set to enhance the lively Las Vegas experience. Alongside the performances, the band is also establishing the Blockhead HQ Clubhouse at Park MGM, a dedicated fan hub featuring NKOTB memorabilia, themed food and drink, and live entertainment, which provides Blockheads a space to celebrate their fandom together.
In celebrating 35 years of Step By Step, the band reflects on their journey and the initial creation of the album which represents a pivotal point in their musical evolution. Originally produced by Maurice Starr, the album includes standout hits like the title track “Step By Step” and “Tonight,” which have continued to resonate with fans for decades. According to band member Jordan Knight, creating the album was a creative departure where they dabbled with recording in hotel rooms and backstage, marking a period of growth and exploration in their musical careers. Jonathan Knight also recalled the significance of recording “Happy Birthday,” a track that gained special yearly prominence due to its annual celebratory nature.
The 35th anniversary reissue of Step By Step and the upcoming Las Vegas residency highlight NKOTB’s enduring relevance and ability to adapt and entertain across generations. These initiatives not only pay homage to the band's storied past but also pave new avenues for engaging with a modern audience. Through these multifaceted projects, NKOTB continue to demonstrate their timeless appeal and commitment to providing immersive and nostalgic experiences for fans.
Key Takeaways
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www.billboard.com | New Kids on the Block announced a special 35th anniversary reissue of their 1990 album 'Step By Step', set to release on June 13, featuring unreleased tracks and a vinyl edition.
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www.antimusic.com | New Kids on the Block has teamed up with the Calm app to create 'Step By Step To Sleep,' a guided sleep story by the band.
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www.billboard.com | The anniversary reissue of 'Step By Step' marks the first time the album is available on vinyl since its original release in 1990.
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www.msn.com | NKOTB's Las Vegas residency will include immersive stage productions, themed events, and a fan-centric clubhouse experience.
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www.billboard.com | The 'Step By Step' album debuted at the top of the Billboard 200 in 1990, marking the band's second No. 1 album.