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NKOTB return with "maybe a few less oh-ohs"

Apr 4, 2008, 12:38 PM | by Mandi Bierly

Categories: Dig it Out!, Morning Madness, Music, Those Crazy Kids!, To Care or Not to Care, Waiting

Nkotb_l It's official: New Kids on the Block are reuniting. Today had the big "reveal" this morning, sending Meredith Vieira and Natalie Morales out onto the rain-soaked Rockefeller Plaza — where the besuited man band magically appeared from behind a red curtain. The girls in the crowd went apes--- as the guys quickly fell into their old roles: Jordan Knight, Donnie Wahlberg, and Joey McIntyre did all the talking, while Jonathan Knight stood behind them looking uncomfortable. Danny Wood was there, too. Off to the side. (The good news: neither Jonathan nor Danny was as awkward as Today's cut from the screaming New Kids crowd to a somber Al Roker, who was reporting from outside the Memphis hotel where Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated 40 years ago today. Seriously. Awkward.)

But, using the same let's lighten things up! segue Today did, back to the New Kids! They've been recording since last August. On May 16, they'll return to Today for their first live performance together in 15 years. They'll release an album this summer (same signature sound, "maybe a few less oh-ohs," said Wahlberg). And they'll launch a limited tour this fall (yes, there will be dancing). Frankly, that's all we needed to know. But Morales kept the guys around for another segment so she could ask this poorly worded question: "You guys went from the biggest act around to just disappearing. We didn't see you. Some of you went on to have your own singles, and your own albums, but we really didn't hear about a lot of you. Where did you all go?" Honestly, I think she just wanted to get into a real-estate conversation with Jonathan (sales are terrible, he said), but instead, she got always-serious Donnie talking about his acting career. "I shot a film with Robert De Niro and Al Pacino called Righteous Kill, and I guess after that, it was kinda like, what more could I do in acting? So I get back with my boys and make some music."

Of course, the question is: Do we want to hear that music? I suppose I'll tune in May 16, because I want to know if Jordan's and Joey's voices are still as good as Donnie said they are. And whether Jonathan, who, let's face it, was never the best dancer, will keep up (or even show up). And if I'm really switching allegiances from Jordan to Joey after all these years. You?

Kelly Tue, Jul 1, 2008 at 10:03 PM EST

I think all the guys are fine as they where back in the 80's. But they can still make me scream. I am 31 and i have all their CD's from the past. And can't wait for the New CD to come out.

Craig Freme Sun, Jun 22, 2008 at 11:28 PM EST

Jordan - Please support us. That's all I ask...it really does matter.

Stacy Mon, Apr 21, 2008 at 04:54 PM EST

Joey has always been mu favorite!

lanyah Fri, Apr 11, 2008 at 10:57 AM EST

all i gotta say is ....france is ready for you guys
I honest wish them success

bravo à vous les NEW KIDS!!!

france love you

Mary Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 10:10 AM EST

I wish my old co-worker was still working here because we noth were fans of New Kids. I liked Jonathan and she liked Danny, the not so cute ones of the band. Her words were actually much harsher. BUT, looking at them now, Joey is looking very cute as is Jordan. Would I see them live? With a group of friends, FOR SHO!

Winona Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 08:16 AM EST

I got stupid-giddy when I first heard about this, and did some NKOTB-style geeking out with a couple co-workers, too. I'm looking forward to the whole thing, and would love to see them if they come to Chicago. Just please, Joe - leave the topless hat at home.

anotherweasley Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 08:04 AM EST

I am so excited for the album and the tour! And as to Jonathan, he has had to battle panic attacks for years. In fact that's why he left the group and didn't appear at some concerts, etc that they did back in the day. I remember watching him on Oprah talking about his struggles and my heart just goes out to him now. I hope he can enjoy this, and know that so many people still love and care for him and the other guys.

Mimi Sun, Apr 6, 2008 at 10:13 PM EST

Sorry Ava ... I never was and never will be a fan of this "band" and I really do use that term loosely. I was like 10 when they first got big and even back then I knew they were crappy and wouldn't last.

Stacimcc Sun, Apr 6, 2008 at 08:57 PM EST

I so geeked out when I heard about this. Three other girls at work and I have already agreed that we're going to see them if they come to Atlanta. I was always a Jonathan girl, and i found it very funny that he was in the back of the crowd, just like old times. He never seemed to relish the spotlight like the others. My girls, ages 6 and 7, watched the Today show interview with me and loved seeing the old footage so now i'm going to go up in the attic and retreive the videotapes and relive the glory days!

April Sun, Apr 6, 2008 at 05:40 PM EST

I saw this too on Today and, I must admit, as a 27-year old I was giddy at the sight of Donnie. I used to have him taped to my ceiling above my bunkbed.

It's strange, I remember him in The Sixth Sense, Band of Brothers, even Boomtown, and not feeling this way.

United Colors of Benetton 012 Sun, Apr 6, 2008 at 04:35 PM EST

Well, NKOTB's British contemporary Take That made a huge comeback this past summer with a #1 single and album in UK, and they didn't even have Robbie Williams on board. So, who knows. Maybe NKOTB makes an equally stunning comeback.

Ava Sun, Apr 6, 2008 at 03:02 PM EST

For the last time, why in the world would they change their name? That's their NAME!! They are New Kids On The Block! Just like Kid Rock is neither a kid NOR a rock, did you notice that?? Haters need to stop hiding in the closet and face the fact that this has got your curiosity going. Let me help you out. There is a snippet of their first song, Click Click Click on nkotb.com and it rocks! When you hear how great their album is, you'd better pull that foot out of your mouth, or change your name to fit your actions. I cannot wait for the tour to happen because I will be surrounded by people who know how to show respect! Peace!

Hillary Sun, Apr 6, 2008 at 12:53 PM EST

It's neat they are making a come back, but,they are grown men and some are married. They are not kids anymore. I hope they get a new name and new songs to.

Zobiana Sun, Apr 6, 2008 at 11:51 AM EST

I can't WAIT to hear the new album... Judging by some of the comments they'll be selling as many albums to people who hate them as to people who love them! They look awesome, the clips of the new music are awesome and thousands of fans are excited about their return!

Stormy Sun, Apr 6, 2008 at 02:12 AM EST

Soo excited to see these men back! I've already heard a few tracks on the new album and it's gonna be huge! They have aged well and their mature voices sound better now.

Mimi Sat, Apr 5, 2008 at 07:41 PM EST

Worst idea since the Spice Girls reunion. I seriously think I just threw up a little.

Nathan Sat, Apr 5, 2008 at 06:30 PM EST

I can't wait to hear how bad that new album's gonna be.

Emily Sat, Apr 5, 2008 at 06:29 PM EST

I am beyond excited!! My best friend from junior high school and I already told our bosses that we're taking May 16th off to go to the city to watch NKOTB on the Today Show. Woo-hoo!!

Diana Sat, Apr 5, 2008 at 12:01 PM EST

I'm so glad to see I wasn't the only one who couldn't concentrate at work yesterday! I don't have a tv in my office but my friends in another building were giving me the play-by-play of their announcement. Needless to say I sped home after work to watch it on DVR (which I ofcourse set up on Monday!). They all got hotter...whew! Do I dare put their picture in my cube? I think I just might...

laura Sat, Apr 5, 2008 at 11:32 AM EST

I am so happy!! So happy! HAPPY!!
I loved them!!! ..... gush to think I got a letter from them in high school!!! Sure it was the same letter everyone got but I got one and my friend did not! jeje .... she still hates me cuz of that!

Welcome back guys!!

laura Sat, Apr 5, 2008 at 11:28 AM EST

Joey! Joey! Joey! Jooooey! ok Joe!

hani nhk Sat, Apr 5, 2008 at 10:14 AM EST

The writer of the article seems pessimistic nor enthusiastic. I, for one, think they need some kind of second chance in life. They are actually talented. Yes, I did notice Jonathan was a bit uncomfortable; he was out the spotlight for 15 years -- of course he was caught off guard. The main three of Joey, Jordan, and Donny were on the spotlights after all these years, so naturally they are more comfortable. Danny was more a behind the scene guy as a producer. I think whether the new album successful or not, we must remain positive -- and believe it when there are loyal fanbase in this world, they will make it. So, please -- add some optimist tone in the article next time. Thx.

from Jakarta, Indonesia.

Epitrite@aol.com Sat, Apr 5, 2008 at 10:01 AM EST

I used to have a big crush on Jordan. I had the stuffed doll, the shirtless poster, and all of the albums. Looking back, I'm like what was I thinking?!

jason Sat, Apr 5, 2008 at 04:27 AM EST

my sister desperately wants to meet jon knight, so i think someone needs to make that happen. there are certain reasons i won't go into, but i think someone could make it happen, couldn't they? and btw, it's not a puppy love thing either

Sheryl Craven Sat, Apr 5, 2008 at 03:15 AM EST

Oh man, i can't believe it, I AM THE BIGGEST NEW KIDS FAN! ALL I HAVE TO SAY, IS THEY BETTER COME TO HOUSTON, TX! I went to their last concert, of course years ago, and i cried, well i was like 12. OOHh, i can't wait, come on guys, come to houston, tx!

Sheryl Sat, Apr 5, 2008 at 03:10 AM EST

OMG! They better come to Houston!

Tara Kell Fri, Apr 4, 2008 at 10:33 PM EST

I too am excited at the NKOTB news. I missed them on the todayshow though. I hope the tour brings then to S.C. i'll totally be there. ALso Still a jordan fan at heart. Does anyone remember what us fans were called??? BLOCKHEADS!!!!!!!!! i say them 4 times in concert, had all the tapes and videos, posters,dalls,buttons,earrings all of it. Starting to fell like a kid again

Nix Fri, Apr 4, 2008 at 08:48 PM EST

Olduvai Cliff ... end of the Long Count ... Antarctic icecap melting ... yep. Sure. Why not. Bring on the Apocalypse. It'll be fun.

popkid Fri, Apr 4, 2008 at 07:23 PM EST

This is all down to Take That though surely?

RedRidingHood Fri, Apr 4, 2008 at 06:41 PM EST

I'll be tuning in just to hear what they sound like. And I'll be switching allegiances from Joe to Donnie. Also, they say Danny has some tight street-dancing moves. I hope Jordan and Joe will give up the spotlight long enough to let Danny showcase if he really does have the moves. That'd be sweet.

J Fri, Apr 4, 2008 at 06:11 PM EST

My goodness I'm beyond excited. My coworkers don't get it. I'm already recruiting the girls for the Boston concert. Shiteous or not, I'm so there!!! My allegiance shifted from Jon to Jordan when I saw how manly he became...SWOON!

Anna Fri, Apr 4, 2008 at 05:41 PM EST

If this tour is successful, I plan to sell all my old NKOTB shiz and make a handsome profit. Goodbye NKOTB comforter set. Hello moolah!

Anna Fri, Apr 4, 2008 at 05:41 PM EST

If this tour is successful, I plan to sell all my old NKOTB shiz and make a handsome profit. Goodbye NKOTB comforter set. Hello moolah!

Anna Fri, Apr 4, 2008 at 05:40 PM EST

If this tour is successful, I plan to sell all my old NKOTB shiz and make a handsome profit. Goodbye NKOTB comforter set. Hello moolah!

Meeskee Fri, Apr 4, 2008 at 05:40 PM EST

I, too, am thrilled beyond belief that NKOTB are getting back together, for however long. I am keeping my fingers crossed that their limited tour will bring them out west. I always hated that I never got to see them perform back in the day. I will not let that happen again. Joey Joe -- you still make my heart go pitter-pat.

EP Sato Fri, Apr 4, 2008 at 04:27 PM EST

Popwatch Genie Found! Turns out that Diablo Cody IS the popwatch genie I've been writing about all these years. She writes about BC Bud and the "Harold and Kumar" trailer comes out. She pens a column asking for the return of the New Kids, and sure enough they came back!

I'm impressed with the powers of this writer/academy award winner/fellow midwesterner.

Regarding the band's return, good for them. I was never that big of a fan, but always dug how the lives of Donny and Mark Wahlberg were the clear inspiration for "Entourage". Hopefully, the return of the band will spawn a new story arc for the series.

Gretchen Fri, Apr 4, 2008 at 03:24 PM EST

I am like a kid in a candy store right now! My co-workers are just cracking up at how excited i am (is that sad?). Anyways, I love them and cant wait for May 16, the new album and the tour!!! :-)

Michelle Fri, Apr 4, 2008 at 03:23 PM EST

Cannot wait for the tour! 13 or 33... who cares, Joey Joe is still my fave!

Lynny Fri, Apr 4, 2008 at 03:01 PM EST

I was all about Donnie then and some things never change. (Loved him on Boomtown, too.)

Christina Fri, Apr 4, 2008 at 02:51 PM EST

I can't wait! I'm going to dig out all my NKOTB stuff in my old closet!

Snarf Fri, Apr 4, 2008 at 02:24 PM EST

I'm still trying to figure out what Danny has done to his face. Botox? HGH? Steroids? A combination of the three? Somethings off....

BOTR Fri, Apr 4, 2008 at 01:43 PM EST

This news makes me want to dig out my old NKOTB pin-ups and hang them up on my wall. :)

Plum Fri, Apr 4, 2008 at 01:38 PM EST

Am I the only one who always liked Jon the best?

Sarah Fri, Apr 4, 2008 at 01:30 PM EST

Oh, and I still have my New Kids poster puzzle. It's so old, but surprisingly, still has all of its pieces.

Maria Fri, Apr 4, 2008 at 01:30 PM EST

Why yes, I've regressed from 30 to 12 in a matter of seconds at the news. (And for those who don't care about this event, just remember that some never cared for grunge either.)

Sarah Fri, Apr 4, 2008 at 01:28 PM EST

I was always a Joey girl. I had his doll. My room was covered in posters and sadly, I put little lipstick marks on all of the pictures of Joey. I was 10.

arahsae Fri, Apr 4, 2008 at 01:02 PM EST

Words. Cannot. Express. My. Excitement. I think I think I jumped off the Jordan bandwagon too. They are ALL looking fine though. Especially since they all lost the rat tails.

MK Fri, Apr 4, 2008 at 12:42 PM EST

Oh, you've just made my week. I may not get any more work done this afternoon. And Joey's voice is better now than it was then.

Robbie Fri, Apr 4, 2008 at 12:38 PM EST

They all look great, perhaps better than before... With the exception of Jordan Knight. He looked better when his solo album was out, what happened? I loved him around then.

JenC Fri, Apr 4, 2008 at 12:30 PM EST

I'm psyched. How often do you get a chance to revisit your inner twelve-year-old?

stephanie Fri, Apr 4, 2008 at 12:22 PM EST

I am with you Mandi, I think I have switched to Joey from Jordan as well. I enjoyed songs from both of their solo projects, so I think their voices will still be good. But I am shocked they are actually doing this. Wasn't there a VH1 show about getting bands back together for one performance and half of these guys flaked or said no?

stephanie Fri, Apr 4, 2008 at 12:22 PM EST

I am with you Mandi, I think I have switched to Joey from Jordan as well. I enjoyed songs from both of their solo projects, so I think their voices will still be good. But I am shocked they are actually doing this. Wasn't there a VH1 show about getting bands back together for one performance and half of these guys flaked or said no?

Sara Fri, Apr 4, 2008 at 12:20 PM EST

God, I was SUCH a fan. I'm not sure how I feel about this, though. They look so...old! However, that said, I still think Jordan is the cutest.

Sally in Chicago Fri, Apr 4, 2008 at 12:16 PM EST

When groups like this regroup after what? 20 years -- it's because THEY NEED THE MONEY!

Jelana Fri, Apr 4, 2008 at 12:15 PM EST

I was just really happy Al Roker didn't even attempt a clever segue for that.

Heather Fri, Apr 4, 2008 at 12:07 PM EST

I'm kind of in shock that Danny became the hot one. (Joey's eyebrows take away whatever hotness he had.) Still a Jonathan fangirl, though. I watched that interview and kept giggling over his hiding in the back. Yep. 15 years hasn't lessened that fear.

fuzzy Fri, Apr 4, 2008 at 12:00 PM EST

I was always in the minority being a Donnie fan, so I don't know who I'll go for now, because he just looks... worn out. In a bad way. I don't know how I feel about this. Oh, but I'll fo sho be tuned in!!

paige Fri, Apr 4, 2008 at 11:53 AM EST

"what more can i do in acting"? damn, he thinks he's the one who was oscar nommed not his more talented brother eh?

um- when did danny get kinda hot?

beachy Fri, Apr 4, 2008 at 11:49 AM EST

I'll be there! I saw Joey in Wicked on Broadway and also at a concert he did here in Boston last year and his voice is still in good shape.

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