Raised by New Kids on the Block

A fellow fan posted some videos on youtube that shot me back to 1989 and made me realize where the roots of my "cleanliness" derived from.

Donnie's interview with Jordan on Youthquake. Jordan's words ingrained into my head forever:
"New Kids say no to drugs, we stand against drugs and we want all of YOU to say no to drugs too and lead a drug free positive life."
http://youtube.com/watch?v=wm5VUtWN4xc

Joe & Danny being interviewed on ET. When asked what Joe's family taught him, I did the same:
"Be a nice person, be kind, that was the biggest thing that my mother & father always, to be positive, and just to live a good life, to try as hard as you can."
http://youtube.com/watch?v=Q1GmpMY6EtI

New Kids on the Block Hangin Out from Hangin Tough video. Donnie's voice: "We came here to do a job and that's to be good role models to every kid in the country and in the world...that's what we want to get across to the kids. We want them to know that it's cool to not do drugs and it's cool to not be in gangs and stuff and it's cool to just basically be yourself. Pretty much all we can hope for, just to create a better environment for the kids cuz they are the future..."
http://youtube.com/watch?v=5jY5UK0zHpE

Yes ladies & gentlemen. These videos are evidence of my so-called "cheesy" & "corny" roots. I was 13 years old and I was so "moldable." I needed someone to tell me that it's okay if I don't want to start smoking or doing drugs or whatever. I needed someone to make me feel like there was nothing wrong with me being me. I needed someone to make me feel loved all around when my family was falling apart at the seams.

I know I've said it before why New Kids are so important to me and that they were really the ones who raised me but to view the actual evidence of where the "parenting" came from was a very powerful moment for me. It made me think about all the kids today and how they don't have any band like this to tell them how wonderful they are if they could just be themselves. It made me cry just a little bit for the memory of all those harsh moments I had in junior high when NKOTB was considered "uncool" just because they were drug-free. It reminded me that I am a result of their positivity and I am proud to call myself a bonafide Blockhead!! :)

I pray to God that the younger generation of today get to witness at least SOME of the influential phenomena that went on 20 years ago. It's important to me that fans & non-fans alike understand that NKOTB are not here to prove something to anyone. They're just here to have fun, to reconnect with the fans, and to make some good music!! The next single is called "Dirty Dancing" and I heard it's got an incredible hook! I can't wait to hear it. Only 12 more weeks until I meet Donnie Wahlberg. I hope I will be able to lose some more weight!! :P

In 15 hours, I will be meeting some other NKOTB fans in my area and I'm very excited to be united with fellow Blockheads. Who knew that this mania would bring like-minded individuals together? I'm anxious to hear stories, share pictures, take pictures, and make new friends. We're all supposed to go in our New Kid gear in order to represent. I think I'll wear my NKOTB denim jacket. I love it to death though and I'm afraid it may get dirty. We'll see.

New Edition & New Kids on the Block UNITE!

Does anyone remember the New Edition reunion back in the day? I remember a little bit of it. I remember it was BIG! It was awesome! All six of them together again! I remember thinking, "Sigh...I wonder if New Kids on the Block will ever reunite." Well surprise surprise. Not only is New Kids on the Block reuniting, they recorded a song with New Edition!!! This was posted from people.com today.

My first thought was "HOLY SH*T!! This album is gonna HIT THE ROOF!!" I've been hearing haters say things like, "Sorry but New Edition was the original boyband. New Kids can never compare." Well, I cannot wait to see another one of those textbook comments on youtube so I can say "Sweetheart, if you love New Edition so much, then check out NKOTB's new album. They're ON IT!!" *Imaginary foul finger shoots up*

I don't like to fight but lately, my might NKOTB reinforced armor has been taking a lot of hits. One shot almost hit me in the heart. I just thank GOD that the New Kids are able to validate all my arguments. Without their incredible genius, I would never have been able to fire my NKOTB-edcuated missiles at these disrespectful & unnecessary remarks. Thank you NKOTB, for being you, for loving us, and for giving both of us (you and the fans) the chance to reminisce, to reconnect, and to recollect. See you guys in October.

Peace, Love & Hang Tough

Deciphering New Kids on the Block Haters

I'm starting to notice that a lot of the younger generation, the teenagers, the untainted minds, are starting to wonder why so many people are making rude comments on youtube for the "Summertime" video from New Kids on the Block. Well, since they weren't really there for the drama, I'm going to explain this as best that I can since I was there.

First off, who are the haters? Let's quarantine them. Most of the haters tend to be:

A) Around the ages of 27 - 36ish, more or less.
B) Fairweather fans
C) Those who don't know the meaning of "living life to the fullest"
D) Smug, self-proclaimed music experts
E) Ex-boyfriends of diehard NKOTB fans
F) Jealous smartasses who won't admit they wanted to be like them
G) Conformity fanatics
H) Those who take life too seriously
I) Those who ran with the majority crowd
J) Easily influenced followers who wanted badly to fit in during school days and last but not least,
K) Brats, snobs, anti-pop music fans, grunge advocates, selective metal heads, 80s/90s hater mentality maintainers, those who can't think outside the box, and cynics, critics, pessimists, devil's advocates, wise guys, and bullies.

I'm sure there are plenty more but for now, this is what I see. If you know a hater, they most likely fit one of these categories. How did they manifest into an NKOTB hater, you ask? Hear me out.

Back in maybe 88-89, when NKOTB started getting big, they were very popular and they were cool among the kids age 2 - 17. They were everywhere! Merchandise came out with their faces all over t-shirts, books, board games, bedsheets, pillowcases, lunchboxes, it was CRAZY! So many millions of girls swooned over these guys because they were hot, talented, & were dubbed the "hardest working kids in showbiz." They really were. They toured the world and everybody, or should I say, every young female fan, tried everything they could just to get a glimpse of these 5 heartthrobs.

By then, people who were not fans did not see what the big deal was and started to ridicule the fans for being so head-over-heels in love with the the New Kids. They didn't see the connection NKOTB had with their fans. They didn't see how NKOTB had influenced their fans to grow up right. They didn't see the attachment the fans had to the band as positive, but rather, illogical. As a result, it became "uncool" to like the New Kids on the Block because they were now old news. Ridicule sounds like a word that describes innocuous teasing & joking but when you have fans who have their lockers burned, belongings stolen, been beaten up, ridicule hardly justifies the hell we went through to stay true as a fan. So today, the name "New Kids on the Block" is associated with being "cheesy," "corny," "lame," "boyband," "lip-synch" and countless other derogatory synonyms. Many former fans find themselves feeling "embarrassed" to have been a fan. (That, ladies & gentlemen, would fall under category B, G, I, & J.

As immature kids, we tend to make fun of others simply for no reason, for our own selfish pleasure, or for the sake of trying to be funny. However, as you age, it is only appropriate for one to mature into a grown-up personality. You stop fighting, you stop making fun of others at their expense, and you start appreciating humanity for what it is. In this day and age, the NKOTB reunion has brought back fond childhood memories for the diehard & loyal fans while for haters, bullies & cynics, it has brought immaturity, condescending personalities, and irresponsible journalists/critics/bloggers/attention hoggers who think they're qualified to lecture us on how their musical tastes are far more superior than ours. You will continue to hear these types of comments but if you're strong-willed, you will not let their stuckup sarcasm, foul-mouthed slurs, and smartass unfunny jokes persuade you from enjoying the music you want to listen to.


NKOTB raised a generation full of tough, independent, and full-of-life individuals. Because of them, I grew up right. I stayed in school, I took their message to heart and I stayed away from drugs. I purposely sought out people like me and we became lifelong friends. If it weren't for them, who knows what type of person I may be today? I feel really lucky to have found them to admire, to appreciate, to raise me, and to turn to. At times when I was down, I remember turning on their music and it was as if they picked me up and cradled me until I felt whole again. The non-fans can never understand the connection we have with the New Kids. Their favorite band will never return the kind of love they show them and they're just jealous that the New Kids and their fans have this special relationship. I stand behind the boys & I will defend them no matter what a hater throws my way. Since I am a fan, I actually know what I'm talking about. I have plenty of ammunition to throw in the faces of the non-believers and there's nothing they can criticize that I cannot counter.

Haters like to make the assumption that NKOTB fans have the musical tastes of an 8-year old. However, their assumptions are invalid, erroneous, and subjective. Personally, my music tastes span far and wide. Besides New Kids, I also enjoy music from BONE Thugs n Harmony, The Cranberries, Evanescence, Boyz II Men, Jodeci, and even up & coming artists such as Power Struggle, Golda Supernova, Girlas, and Paula Fuga. I know it's crazy to imagine that we actually have music tastes outside of the boys but it's TRUE! Believe it!


The following are a list of questions that have surfaced from the haters:


1. Why do you still like them? They were a teen sensation. Grow up.
2. Why are they reuniting? Their heyday is over.
3. Shouldn't they change their name to "Old Men on the Block?"
4. Aren't they too old to be dancing around in matching outfits?
5. Weren't they caught lip-synching back in the day?
6. Has the world of music gotten so bad that we had to resort to recycling old boybands?
7. Aren't you too old to be liking New Kids on the Block? Cmon! Their music's so dated!


*Sigh*


Relax. The guys are just having a good time. Why are you so focused on their age? Since when are you restricted to being under 30 to have fun? If you think this reunion is ridiculous, try listening to yourself. You're getting all worked up over something you're not even interested in so why even bother complaining? Why rain on our parade? Is it really that important to you that you have to be negative, condescending, and disrespectful? Next time you want to comment, try editing. Think outside of the box.

My personal opinion is that you only think this is ridiculous because you are unable to see its profundity. Get deeper and you'll find where the love for this band lies within each and every diehard fan. Not only did the New Kids help us discover our passionate side, but they also brought us up to be just like them. They were idols who made a positive impact on our lives even when our parents dismissed the phase for a temporary "puppy love" crush. We strived to imitate them. We learned to dance, were inspired to sing, learn instruments, volunteer for communities, donate to charities, treat others with respect, keep our heads up when times are rough, be drug-free, stand up for yourself, and have fun in life! What is so wrong with that?


To the haters, be cool. Is that possible?


To the younger generation, don't trip off the haters. If you choose to be a fan, be prepared to face negative feedback. But know that their opinion is worthless because you have a mind of your own.


To the skeptics, age has no impact on their music. They are in an untouchable category.


To the ardent, diehard fans, you're not alone. We are everywhere and anywhere. This is the biggest "pop band" reunion to date. Let's party. ;-)

New Kids on the Block's store finally opens!!

The New Kids on the Block store just opened a few minutes ago.

Let's see, by the end of the year, my over the top, already in debt, passionately driven ass will have spent $3,335 on NKOTB related stuff...hmmm....

http://newkidsontheblock.shop.bravadousa.com/

Without hesitation, I shall now make that $3,410.

Yeah, I'm really diggin myself into a hole here. What can I say? I'm sure my debt is probably not nearly as much as some other fans.

In Defense & Support of New Kids On The Block On Record

I was curious to see exactly what I've been saying about the New Kids On The Block in a nutshell. Am I consistent? Have I hurt anyone's feeling? Was I ever immature? Did I change any minds? Did I make a difference?

So, I decided to look up all the articles I've ever commented on regarding the NKOTB reunion and here's what I found. Although, I'm sure there are a lot more that didn't approve my comments!! Haha!!

3 hours later: Wow, I sure do have a lot of time on my hands...or maybe it's just my undying passion for New Kids On The Block (NKOTB). ;) Man, my words are both vicious AND harmonious. I've never been so passionate about anything or cared enough about anyone to defend them & support them like this. And to think, this doesn't even include comments I've made on message boards & Youtube videos! This reunion is going to be so worth my $3,335. Every cent.

1/28/08 US Magazine: New Kids on the Block Singer Changes Tune on Reunion

Broke, rich, whatever. I need this reunion to happen. Their influence on our generation has been monumental. They kept me distracted from living a life that could have turned out much worse without their music to keep me sane. I don't understand why so many people are making fun of it when so many other artists have done the same. This is no different. This is the nature of the entertainment industry. Please educate yourselves on occupational patterns of entertainers before judgement. Thanks to them, I'm living a healthy, smoke free, drug free life. Can't wait to buy tickets!!

1/29/08 News.com.au: New Kids On The Block to Reunite

Dude, it's because of the New Kids that I don't smoke or do drugs since they promoted "positivity." I was such a geek and still am! But thanks to them, I'm living a healthy life. I'd LOVE to see a reunion tour happen. I still have my NKOTB plastic cup & Joey McIntyre doll!

1/30/08 Lalate News: COMEBACK VIDEO: New Kids on the Block Return! Cartoon Video

I seriously doubt they will be singing the same old songs over and over. What idiots think they would do that??!People evolve, grow, mature. I’d say keep an open mind. You can’t honestly tell me that you believe there aren’t any singers out there who are over 40. Where’s the respect?

2/2/08 TMZ.com: Do Three New Kids a Reunion Make?

Thank god, I thought I would never get a chance to see a New Kids concert again. Damn my mother for denying me! I'm so excited!!! :P

2/4/08 Buzznet: Poll NKOTB Reunion Rumors

Why must you rain on our parade? If you're so uninterested, why are you bothering to read and comment? Can't you just let us enjoy the news?

3/8/08 Oprah.com Community: New Kids On The Block Reunion!

This is Ava from San Francisco, CA. I'd just like to say that the New Kids On The Block have matured beautifully over the last 20 years. I'd love to see this group perform together again as a unit because that's how fans remember them and that's how it should be. They have touched so many lives of the twenty/thirtysomething group that ever since the rumor hit us, we've all been getting the jitters, heart palpitations, and the squeamish teenager within us resurfacing. (And talking like one too!) It's literally as if I'm reliving my teenage years again and I'm enjoying every second of it. No matter how much others may mock them, they should know that we will ALWAYS defend them seeing as lately, we have all been defending ourselves as well I'm sure. We practically grew up with them by our side. Thank you, Oprah, for having them on your show in the past. I hope you will consider bringing them back once again. May we all reminisce together and look forward to a great reunion tour. We Bravehearts/Blockheads have been patiently waiting in the wings for a long long time.

3/31/08 Perez Hilton: They're Back - Officially!

Have you heard some of their new music? Have you heard who's involved in this project? Hella fuckin YAH I'm going! This is a historical timewarping event and there's no way I'm missing it for anything!!

4/1/08 MTV: New Kids On The Block - Neither New nor Kids - Reuniting 'cause it feels so good' (Also They're Broke)

MTV is writing articles about music? Why? I doubt the folks that work there now know anything about music since you guys seem to have jumped on the lame reality show bandwagon. I used to love watching MTV and their support for NKOTB but if you guys promote yourselves as NKOTB haters, there's going to be hell to pay from their fans.

Anyone and everyone knows that you don't mess with NKOTB fans. Yes, we can be scary but PLAY nice and we'll BE nice. Besides, it's because of people like that caused us to be such defensive fans. Be cautious, we might organize and boycott your station but you don't care, right? Just change yourselves to RTV-Reality Television. Let the programming actually fit your name. Either way, NKOTB is going to rock you so hard you won't know what hit you.

4/1/08 Shine from Yahoo: Get out your old Donnie Wahlberg buttons: New Kids on the Block are making a comeback

I had the Joe doll myself!! I used to play that Personal Feelings tape as a lullaby to sleep to. Sigh...can't wait for the concert!!

4/2/08 E! Online: The Hum - NKOTB Hanging...Lower?

It's weird because almost every NKOTB "hate" writer says something about them not being "Kids" anymore. I'm sorry but I don't know of any group that reunites under a completely new name based on their age. If you think they should change their name to complement their age, then you must think Kid Rock is both a kid, AND a rock, right? And The Monkees are really monkeys & The Beatles are really beetles, huh? Please, just stop already. There's no stopping this reunion and in the end, you can't beat 'em! So just join 'em! You'll get much more love from us that way.

4/2/08 Perez Hilton: All We Can Say Is...

Okay, who needs CPR revival in their pocket at the concert? ME!!
HOLY MUTHER EFFIN SIZZLIN' HOT!!

4/2/08 MTV: We Were Kidding About Them Being Broke. Also First New Group Photo of Them in 15 Years

Having fun with y'all? Well, "y'all" need to show some respect it seems. NKOTB have been such positive role models for a generation, obviously not for yours because you have no manners, no respect, and no viewers. That's why you've turned toward reality TV to try to get ratings. I used to LOVE MTV. I loved the Top 10 Countdown, the early saturday morning videos, the world premiere videos, it was great!! I didn't even mind those shows you had once in awhile like Singled Out or Remote Control. Whomever worked at MTV back in the days, you never should have left! Since us fans are too old for MTV, does that mean that the folks running MTV are all knucklehead teenagers as well? Seems that way since you allowed such a poorly written article to be published. There's a time to make jokes and there's a time to show respect. With the amazing response that NKOTB are getting about this reunion, it seems the joke's on "Y'ALL!!"

4/2/08 SF Gate: Daily Dish: NKOTB TO Make TV Appearance

Yes, let's hate on the New Kids for donating money to charities such as The United Cerebal Palsy Foundation, The Mark Wahlberg Foundation, the Fatone Foundation and countless others because you haters have given MUCH more to underprivileged children, right? Yes, let's hate on them for influencing a generation of people to stay away from drugs, to stay in school, and to practice positivity. Yes, their music sucks because they had 6 singles in the Top 10 within 1 year. Yes, it sucks that because of them, so many of their fans don't smoke, never did drugs, nor dropped out of school. I feel sorry for you haters because the people you have to look up to these days are out drunk, partying, and having sex on videotape. Just wait until your kids start following in their footsteps. Y'know, there are so many haters out there who don't even know what they're talking about. Don't even bother debating with us fans over this because we have WAAAYYY more ammunition than you haters since we actually KNOW what we're talking about! Put yourself in a boxing ring with an NKOTB fan and I guarantee, you will be Knocked Out!

4/4/08 Perez Hilton: So Anticlimatic

Uuuhh, were you not paying attention when they were asking them a question and Donnie couldn't even hear her? Plus, why would they perform if they're not scheduled to perform until May? This is just the tip of the iceberg, sweetheart. And if you remember how loud they screamed back in the day, then chances are, you're calling yourself "old." Healthy Living Tip: Pull foot out of mouth and show some respect.


4/4/08 MTV: Dear New Kids On The Block Fans aka 'Blockheads'

Ohhh, so you wanna talk about MTV 2 and mtvU? Sure, let's talk about it. Let's talk about the fact that MTV is your PRIMARY channel and somehow, you decided to put secondary shows on the primary station and pushed all the "music" into other channels that you get only if you pay extra. That way, those who have cable still cannot watch it. Whose brilliant move was that? Well, whomever you are, you're right. If I'm chillin in front a television and I feel like watching some music videos, I should get up, go to my office, turn on my computer, go to MTV2 or mtvU's website and navigate the site for some videos. I'm sure the common audience would MUCH rather do that than just press a button on the remote. I'm sure they prefer it.

You wanna put down the New Kids, that's fine. Everyone has their right to freedom of speech. But don't take the coward's way out. I'd like to see you guys say it to their face. I would LOOOVVVEE to see you James, toe to toe, with Donnie Wahlberg. Ooh, I would actually PAY for MTV to catch that! THAT would be some good reality show drama right there!

Either way, it doesn't matter. Face it, the ball has begun to roll and you can't stop it. Please, just redeem yourselves and show just a tiny bit of respect. I'm sure you mother must have taught you at least that. And for your information, NKOTB fans can take a joke. Oh yah, we do get jokes, but only good ones. It's nice that you're laughing at your own joke though. And it's Joey Mc-I-N-T-Y-R-E. Research team, wake up!!

Peace! ;)

4/5/08 Complex Blog: 5 Reasons to Stop The New Kids On The Block Reunion

Sigh…puhleez, this is like MTV all over again. You and James Montgomery should get together and make out. Look, your one man protest is not going to bring back your 3rd grade girlfriend. I highly doubt she is impressed by your bitter pettiness. NKOTB came back to reconnect with their fans, not with the critics, not with the haters, and certainly not with the cretins who take precious time out to bash on them. The reunion is about the them, their music, and their fans. Don’t you have anything else to do? How about brushing your teeth. Your mouth may smell after having your foot in it.

4/6/08 EW.com: NKOTB return with "maybe a few less oh-ohs"

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!

4/6/08 Heckler Spray: VIDEO: New Kids On The Block On Today, Together & Zimmer-Free

Commenters, these types of articles are ubiquitous. Don’t fall for it. They just want comments whether they be negative or positive. Obviously, negative comments grab more attention. Hey, if they wanna give unintentional publicity for our guys, that’s their agenda. I will always have NKOTB’s backs and it’s people like Stuart who make it easy to toss gibberish aside, which is exactly what this article is: complete gibberish. Stop copying MTV, Stuart. It’s not cute.

4/7/08 Mollygood: New NKOTB Track is just what you expect

It sounds tight! Unlike a lot of the garbage that’s out there, especially on supposedly music television. This song originally came out under the artist Nasri and people would not be hating on it if it weren’t NKOTB singing it. People need to open their minds.

4/9/08 Heatworld: Oh no! NKOTB aren't so hot after all...

Besides being handsome men now, they are also talented, versatile, and charming. I could not ask for more.

4/9/08 Heatworld: Hmm...what do you think of NKOTB's comeback song?

It's amazing to me how people really show their music biases when it comes to NKOTB. This song was written and sung by singer-songwriter Nasri and I seriously doubt people would be so narrow-minded if it was sung by another artist. Why the hate?

4/12/08 MTV: New Kids On The Block: One Fan's "Today" Show Experience

I've been pondering this whole MTV feud and frankly, it's giving me a headache. Fortunately, as an NKOTB fan, I can't be knocked down very easily. I'm with Zobiana on the rotten vegetables. And I'd still like to see James Montgomery and Donnie Wahlberg, toe to toe, with James talkin his smack about us fans and NKOTB. Only then will I turn my channel back to MTV again. But thanks for sharing this story!

4/14/08 Blog Critics Magazine: Satire - New Kids on the Block Defiant in Press Conference

Can you write a blog explaining why it is that NKOTB are often the target of music snobs who prematurely judge their music prior to listening to it? I often find that people will like a song until they find out that NKOTB sang it. Why does that happen? Why the prejudices?

4/19/08 Ellen DeGeneres: 30 Seconds to Air

Hi Ellen,

I agree with Melita. NKOTB fans are one of a kind. There are no other fans like us who would go to the depths of the earth just to catch a glimpse of the 5 boys, to defend their name, and to spread the love of their music. NKOTB music has touched each and every one of our lives in a different way and because of them, a large part of my generation grew up on the right path. I just want to celebrate this group because of all they have done for each and every one of us. I hope you will consider the request. We have been waiting for 14 years.

4/22/08 No More 3X5's Blog: NKOTB

Wow, I’m really sorry you feel this way. You’re missing out on a phenomenon. NKOTB originated in the 80s and to have them come back better than ever will hit the music business HARD! Their new sound that’s been leaking all over the internet is current, sexy, and still New Kids style. Best of both worlds, past & present colliding into one. They were a great influence on their generation and I’m thankful they kept me on the right path. There’s no reason to hate on a group that created so many strong individuals. Hope you keep your mind open and take a peek at their music. The best part about this reunion is that they are not doing it for money. They are doing it for the love of making music and for the fans. No band/group/singer has ever shown this much love for their listeners.

4/24/08 No More 3X5's: A Follow Up

Y’know, I often find myself having to “trick” my friends into liking the New Kids solely because there is this ubiquitous bias that once someone hears that NKOTB sang a particular song, it is automatically dismissed. But when I play the song without saying who it is, they think it rocks! I try my best not to allow folks to prematurely judge the music because there are so many music snobs out there. When their album comes out, I hope you will be open-minded enough to give it a chance. With all the money the are putting into this reunion out of their own pockets, I think they deserve a chance, don’t you think?

And by the way, Nasri is amazing. You should definitely check him out, as Rivera said. http://www.myspace.com/nasriworld

If it weren’t for Nasri, there would be no NKOTB reunion!

5/1/08 Chart Rigger: The Only New Kid I'd Bang is Joey, and The Other Four can Kiss my Butt

Sorry about your loss on the Spice Girls. But with NKOTB, you'd be surprised. They're really good to their fans. ;)

5/1/08 Pop Critics: New Kids On The Block Announce Tour Dates!

Actually, I’ve heard some of their music. Sounds really good. They’ve come a long way since the 80s. Can’t wait to see more from them!

5/3/08 Crave Online: Cash Cow Reunion: New Kids On The Block

Hmmm, I doubt they are here to "reclaim the glory." These guys are businessmen. They made millions in their heyday. I'm sure they know what they're doing. I've heard some of their music and it sounds pretty good in my opinion. I'm 200% sure they will gain new fans with their new sound. Give them a chance. Thanks for the publicity, by the way. I'm sure you've gotten some folks curious. Was that your intention?

5/5/08 Pop Sugar: NKOTB's "Summertime": Love It or Leave It?

Catchy tune. It really grew on me. From reading the comments, I don't understand why it matters what age the singers are considering Mariah Carey is the same age and is singing a song about touching bodies. This song is talking about reminiscing, that's why they're talking about the younger days. I think it's perfectly fitting. It'd sound pretty stupid if it was sung by a little teenager. That would mean thinking about their elementary school days.

5/6/08 Bostonist: New Kids On The Block Single Review

Donnie did an interview and he said that this song was released for 2 reasons:

1. it's the right time of the year
2. it's a song going out to the fans to let us know they're back

I didn't love the song at first but it was because I was comparing it to Click Click Click, which is more sexy and sultry. Summertime definitely had my head bobbing the 2nd time around. I can't get enough of it now!! Thank you for the article!!

5/7/08 Yahoo Answer: NKOTB "Summertime" Love it or Hate it?

Techno music is good and I think Justin Timberlake & Madonna are a couple of great artists but honestly, the music I hear on the radio nowadays are starting to sound the same to me. When I first heard "Summertime," I didn't fall in love with it or anything. I actually preferred the other song "Click Click Click" more because it's sexier. But I listened again with "Summertime" and I actually found myself nodding to the beat. It's pretty catchy if you give it another chance. But then again, to each their own.

Try not to think of it as creepy because if you do your research, you would know that this song's subtext is about NKOTB and their experience with their fans 20 years ago. Kinda like a homage to us. It's like NKOTB taking a trip down memory lane with their fans. Seriously, I don't know any other band in the whole world who loves their fans as much as the New Kids do, which means a lot to us. I'm proud as ever to call myself a Blockhead. My license plate even says "I ♥ NKOTB". :)

5/7/08 Tosyn SPEECHgirl Bucknor Blog: Mariah! NKOTB! Made!

Thanks for your thoughts! I really enjoyed your take on NKOTB!! I am a huge fan of theirs and I hope they rule the pop charts this year!

5/12/08 Perez Hilton: Hangin' Tough!

To the haters, if they suck so much, can you explain to me how they were able to get to this point today? To be touring the world, selling tickets like hotcakes, and gaining new fans every hour? I just love these "cock sucker," "sorry ass shit," "has been," and "fag" comments. What a way to justify your credibility as a commenter. Don't have a more sophisticated vocabulary? I think THAT is "fucking retarded." NKOTB, welcome back.

5/12/08 TMZ: Bitter Kid On The Block

Wow, Donnie Wahlberg. Initiating the NKOTB reunion, financing the album, acting, singing, contributing/writing 80% of the songs, dancing? I'm impressed. You've certainly gotten MY attention. I will surely be buying some tickets to some concerts.

5/13/08 EW.com The dancing is making me slightly nervous

Amen to that, Samantha! And might I add, how come no one has criticized Mariah Carey for NEVER dancing? She just kinda walks around onstage but here are 5 guys, giving us their all and they get all this negative criticism for it? It's biased, premature, and immature of self-proclaimed music critics. Clean your slate and open your minds. All that dirty buildup is making you stink.

5/18/08 Rolling Stone: NKOTB Return to "Today" for First Show in 15 Years

Thank you so much for this article! I thought The Today Show performance was GREAT! Despite the sound being a little off, I enjoyed it immensely! There is nothing like seeing NKOTB perform as one unit. Can’t wait to see them in concert!!!

5/18/08 VH1: New Kids On The Block Reunite after 14 Years

To What R U Gonna DO Bout ME, I’d have to say that Click Click Click is the sexiest, most sultry song I have ever heard from New Kids On The Block. The fact that you said it sounded perverted makes YOU the perverted one, not them. If you’re looking for the stuff we used to hear from them, pop in a CD!! Music changes and us TRUE fans in 2008 think the guys have matured, gotten sexier, and definitely HOTTER than they ever were before. Don’t get too deep into the words, it’s just a song. Calm down! Like Joe says, “Chillax!!” And to VH1, you can be sure that I won’t be watching your channel anymore, and I won’t be the only one boycotting your station along with MTV.

5/19/08 Best Week Ever: What Sort of People Camp Out For NKOTB?

3:50 PM
I was there! I overheard someone walk by and say “These people are my heroes.” It’s such a shame that the haters have not matured out of 1988 and have stayed the same. NKOTB is BACK! Deal with it!!

6:16 PM
It’s 2008, Panther. Grow up. Nice use of sophisticated language, by the way. Your negative attitude & hatred is premature, immature, & cretinous. Open your mind. If you’re so busy drinking diarrhea, why bother spending your precious time going around commenting negative feedback on this issue? If you comment again, you’re obviously obsessed. As for me, I’m here to defend my boys and they’re worth every ounce of my energy. Personally, I would never admit to drinking diarrhea but, to each their own.

5/19/08 Pop Sugar: New Kids on the Block Perform on the Today Show - Awesome or Embarrassing?

It's funny how you post the worst moments and ask people to judge it. Anyway, given the fact that they were having fun out there pleasing their fans in the pouring rain, there is no other band in the WORLD that loves their fans this much. Jon even came to visit the fans who were waiting in line two nights before the show. How sweet is that? Joe even mentioned in an interview that what they have with their fans is "very special" and he's right. Besides, it's pretty obvious the negative commenters don't know anything about dancing & singing. You can NOT dance around & sing perfectly. Your diaphragm doesn't allow that. It's like trying to sing on the same key while doing jumping jacks. Please do your research before commenting. Welcome back, New Kids. We love you! OMIGAWD WE LOVE YOU!!

5/19/08 MTV: Not-So-New Kids Talk Reason for Reunion, Fall Tour & The Jonas Brothers

John Norris, you are the ONLY one at MTV I respect right now. Thank you SO much for writing this article. I was one of the campers at the Today Show. Having Jon Knight come to visit us made it SO worth it and I can't understand my critics have to put down a band that loves their fans so much. NKOTB has gotten way too much outdated backlash and I'm sick & tired of it. As lame & unworthy as these critics are, I will never back down an opportunity to defend the boys if needed. If MTV ever does another story on NKOTB, they had better send you and ONLY you to do it. I seriously wanted to throw eggs & tomatoes at the MTV building last Friday. You ROCK, JOHN!!

5/20/08 Rolling Stone: Live Blogging New Kids On the Block's Visit to Rolling Stone

Joe! What a coincidence! I love cars, pasta, and long, slow kisses too! Let's enjoy them together! ;)

5/21/08 About.com: New Kids on the Block Are Back With "Summertime," First Hit in 14 Years

I have been a fan of NKOTB since 1988. Their music from the past came from another man, Maurice Starr. This time around, NKOTB are the ones calling the shots and I am enjoying every minute, every second of their power. They’re doing this reunion for the music and the fans. I’m sure they don’t expect to stay together forever. It is evident that they are just doing this to have fun so just sit back & enjoy the ride! They don’t have anything to prove because their unique loyal fanbase will back them up 500%. Think about it, if this song were sung by someone else, would you have the same opinion? Please let go of the outdated backlash.

5/21/08 Newsday.com: Backstage Pass - Zootopia @ IZOD Center 5/17/08

Glenn, I absolutely POSTIVELY enjoyed what you said about NKOTB entirely. FINALLY! A journalist who understands what NKOTB is really doing instead of assuming this is the best they can come up with. They certainly are wiser this time around and they are the ones calling the shots, no one else. It's about time someone noticed their plan. THANK YOU!!

5/27/08 Wrestling Kitties: Oh No She Didn't...

3:52 PM
It's hard to explain to a non-fan why this reunion means so much to us. I can't speak for everyone but for me, NKOTB came into my life at a time when I really needed guidance. It was their music that I turned to when I felt outcasted as a new student in a new city. It was their image that kept me in school, off the streets, and away from drugs. It is their love for the fans that keep me coming back for more.

As for the song Summertime, the song really isn't about them thinking about girls. Donnie explains this in an interview. The subtext of this song is that it is them reminiscing about their experience with their fans 20 years ago, hence the shout out in the beginning "Jones Beach, 1988!" It is a homage to the fans, so it makes perfect sense, at least to me.

NKOTB are now genuinely handsome men and I love that they have come back to us for one last journey. Danny mentioned that having a farewell tour was one thing he regret not doing because they just left the fans without saying goodbye. This is their chance & the fans' chance to take this journey together and finish it out.

They did this new album because nostalgia is not the reason they wanted to reunite. They wanted to give the fans something to look forward to. If nostalgia were the ony reason, then they would have agreed to do the reunion when VH1 Bands United tried to get them together. Luckily, a few of them made a pact not to reunite, if approached, for anyone but themselves.

I could go on and on (and I did) but I don't think you would ever know what I'm talking about unless you truly understood the special relationship NKOTB has with their fans. It's not just about the music, the image, or the money. It's about their ability to make their fans feel special, important, and loved. When was the last time you went to meet your favorite band for the 2nd time and they actually remembered you? When have you ever heard stories of bands who would give you the bracelets off their hands, the water bottles out of their mouths, or hugs/kisses just because you asked for it? Or coming to visit the fans in line at 3 AM in the morning to make sure they're not rained on? I don't know of any other band in the world that cares this much about their fans and that's what makes me keep them close to my heart. I actually feel sorry for the generation of today who didn't have NKOTB to look up to. They weren't perfect angels, but they were ours. Beatles was my mom's music, Miley Cyrus is my niece's music, but New Kids On The Block's music belongs to my generation and no one else. :)

6:00 PM
We don't know each other, Wrestling Kitties. But whenever someone writes something about the New Kids, one of the fans always finds it. NKOTB fans are known to be great sleuths. Scary, huh? ;) Not really. I just wanted to answer your question. It isn't often that people would really give them a fair chance by being objective because of the outdated backlash that a lot of the critics can't seem to let go of. We fans are on the edge of our seats and it feels great to have them with us. Please understand that I wasn't trying to convert you or anything. There are just two sides to every story and I'm glad you were mature & open-minded enough to hear it. Have a great day! :)

5/28/08 Perez Hilton: What Happened To The Comeback?

Perez, I'm so disappointed in you because you seem to have failed to see what a phenomenon this is. A group that hasn't been out in 14 years has somehow generated 62,000 dowloads??! I'd hardly call that a failure considering there are a bunch of fans waiting for the CD to come out in the stores so they can buy a tangible CD. However, I'm not too sure that your negative articles in the past & other unnecessarily negative articles I have read have not contributed to the so-called "stalling" so maybe, it's partially your fault and you should be responsible enough to take some blame in this. If you had done your research duty as a reporter, you would know what "Summertime" is really about, and it's definitely not about them lusting after teenage girls, as most of your moronic & ill-informed commenters seem to think.
Commenters, is it possible to use grown up language that doesn't includes words such as "fag" or "suck dick?" Most NKOTB fans have grown up & matured and we don't necessarily need to use childish language to get our point across. Destructive criticism isn't helpful and frankly, if that is all you're going to participate in, you really need to rain on someone's parade because you weren't invited to this reunion. The loyal, true, & diehard down fans will always back up the boys and there really isn't anything anyone can say that can knock down this army.
Good luck on your "career," Perez.

Re: Jodie –
I don't think they knew the fans were going to still be there after all these years. The expression on their faces at The Today Show (off camera) were glances of genuine & pure shock. Some said they saw Jordan mouth the word "Wow" when they were in the middle of the crowd on The Today Show. They have made efforts to communicate with the fans & have let us know how much they appreciate our love & dedication. It's okay if you don't understand what the big deal is. I can't speak for everyone but for me, their music & influence came into my life at a very critical time. They caused me to stay in school, stay off drugs, & stand up for myself. I could never turn my back on a band that made me the strong & independent person I am today. And really, what is "normal behavior?" The fact that these folks went out there told me that this was a fun group of people. I'm 31 and I have to say, out of all my friends who are the same age as me, they admire the fact that I am living my life to the fullest because it's fun! I'd "act my age" but then, I would never have gotten to meet Jonathan Knight, who was sweet enough to come out at 3 AM to visit the early birds at the Today Show to make sure we were okay. Who ever heard of a band that would do such a thing? Seriously, isn't it ridiculous that they actually CARE about the fans? Time with them is absolutely priceless.

Re: jvee – My sentiments exactly. I would have to say that the group wre a great influence on my back then because I found myself seeking out people who were fans and we became friends that way so please don't make me feel like I should question what NKOTB gave me as a child. I can certainly have an honest debate about NKOTB. I don't proclaim that NKOTB sound great but I think they're decent. I like their harmonizing. This reunion is a chance for NKOTB and their loyal fans to reconnect, a chance some of us never got. We get the chance to enjoy them one last time and say our formal goodbyes when this is all over. I don't think the reason radio stations aren't taking NKOTB seriously is because we're "oversensitive." I think the outdated backlash has followed the band because negative opinions are voiced much louder than positive. As for their concerts, artists rarely sound exactly the way they do on their records when they sing live. I actually didn't think the medley sounded very good with all those tech problems they were having but then, I know it's hard to keep your voice steady when you're dancing around. To each their own, I say. If you don't like it, that's ok. There is no need to lecture us. It's just music, guys. The band is just having fun and so are the fans.

Re: Jodie – Actually, I appreciate you making that step towards satisfying your curiosity. Most people wouldn't even bother and they wonder why their song hasn't gone higher in the charts. I would have to disagree on you that they need voice lessons though. True that some sing lead more than others but as a group, their voices, how do I put this…they fit. As for their sparkle & dancing, I never expected them to be the way they used to be and honestly, I'm sure their old concerts weren't always perfect neither. They've aged & so have the fans. With age comes wisdom. We know what our bodies are capable of and obviously, it's safety first. There was a large part of me at the Today Show that was quite worried about them dancing on a stage that had to be squeegied to get the water off. What they did for that concert was the result of only a few months of work but I applaud them because I'm sure it wasn't easy to pull off in such a short time. Just the fact that they are together satisfied my curiosity. I hope you enjoy the concert when you go. I hope you bring an open mind. I hope you get the chance to meet at least one of them someday. NKOTB & the fans are enjoying the hell out of this reunion and it shows.

New York with New Kids On The Block

I will never understand why people choose to put down the New Kids. They show so much love & dedication to their fans that it's surreal! What kind of celebrity goes out at 3 AM to visit their fans who are waiting to see their show? What kind of celebrity allows their fans to get into shows that they didn't have tickets for? What kind of celebrity is willing to take off the bracelets, give away their water bottles, or kiss their fans on the cheek/hands/etc. just because their fans asked?

I can explain it all, but you will never know. Every day, as I read the stories people tell, I fall in love with these boys more and more. Not only because they practically raised me to become the person that I am today but because the smiles, the joy, the laughter they bring us fans has been a feeling that has long been lost among all of us for the past 15 years. Who can turn a 31 year old into a 13 year old? Name ONE person who can do that. Well I can name 5 and you know who that is.

Because of NKOTB, I ♥ NY. My trip was spectacular. I arrived at the airport Wednesday morning quite early because my ride had to go to work. While waiting for the plane to board us around 9 am, I get a text message that there are already people there in NY waiting in line. My initial plan was to go Thursday night around 5 PM. Well, this certainly changed my mind and now, I began to panic. There was no way in hell I was going to fly 3000 miles across the country to not be able to see NKOTB by being way in the back. I couldn't risk it. So, I had to change the itinerary. No more sightseeing, dining in a New York restaurant or sleeping in the hotel. We were going to head straight to the line right after we dropped off our stuff at the hotel.

My friend guided me by text messages to find the line. Apparently, Rockefeller Ctr. consists of 9 blocks. I was about to give up until I asked a pedicab driver if she could tell me where people line up for The Today Show. She pointed in one direction and off I went. I got another text that told me to look for red chairs and after running around for about 30 min, I finally found them!!! Mah peoples! Mah diehards! There were about 10 people in line. So, the plan was to take a shower at the hotel, grab the big plastic sheets I had and layer up to sleep in the streets of New York.

When we got there, there were about 17 people there I think. The rest of the night, no one else came so we all began to fall asleep. I met some wonderful people there and everyone was so nice and had great stories to tell me. At one point, two girls in the front came back to the line in a cab and they were screeching!! Obviously something had happened. I came to find out that they ran into Donnie Wahlberg at some hotel or something and they snapped a picture! Jon was there as well somehow. So they knew we were out here. Donnie told one of the girls to make sure she didn't catch a cold out there and stuff. What a carebear! Aww...

I curled up into a ball and tried to sleep. A homeless woman got into the line behind us and just stayed there for awhile. Then she left but she did not take her belongings. I almost fell asleep until I heard someone yelling at us from the front saying, "You guys are crazy, yo!!" I think they were rattling the barrier and woke us all up. Some tried to ignore them but as I looked up, I thought the guy looked a lot like Jonathan Knight. I blinked a few times and realized that it IS Jonathan Knight! Holy friggin mutha, WTF is he doin out here with us??!! That was my thoughts exactly.

He came and told us we were crazy to be out here on Wednesday when the show was on Friday but we didn't care. I'm sure he just came to make sure we were okay and to visit us. After all, he knew we were here. I grabbed my bag and took out my camera and started taking pictures. I eventually got a picture with him and he was so kind. He noticed my shirt and said "What's this? Oh, Face tha Music tuah. I wasn't theh fa that." I said, "It's okay. You're here now." And that's how I got my picture. I was so happy that I was cheesin in my picture. Can you tell how giddy I felt? I was so giddy that I had my Hangin Tough CD right in between me and Jon and I didn't even think to ask him for an autograph!!! I'm such an idiot. Hopefully, this will not be the last time I ever meet him. When I came back to my spot, the homeless lady had left with her stuff. I guess Jon scared her off. Thanks dude.

Thursday came & went. The line got long, the day got colder, the nights became unbearable. People were fighting over linejumpers. Numerous passerbys stared at us in disbelief. At least 100 people asked us "What is this line for?" I got tired of answering and started ignoring them. Someone walking by told us that we were their heroes. I've never beentold that before. I ate chinese food on Thursday. Just one meal. No water. I didn't want to end up having to go to the bathroom at an inconvenient time. Only went when the Rockefeller Ctr. was open. So, I had to dehydrate myself. Thank god I wasn't on my time of the month...well actually, I was. But a month before, I went and got a pap smear to get birth control pills so that I could stop my period from coming while I was in line. How horrible that would have been if I had to do this with my woman problems in tow. :P

By early Friday morning, I heard the line was going around the block. The end of the line was already cut off and they had people on a standby line somewhere else. I'm not going to go into the drama that occurred during the whole 32 hours I was there because I want to remember this as a positive experience all th way through. They began setting up the stage around 2 AM I believe. It was amazing to see the stage with the words New Kids On The Block all over it. I was never going to sleep. I hadn't slept since Tuesday night by now. I never thought I would be able to stay awake for 48 hours straight again. The last time I did that, it was when I was 13. My cousin and a friend of mine were trying to do a dance routine to "Never Gonna Fall In Love Again" from the Step by Step album. I never knew that the New Kids could still get my adrenaline going like that. All this time, I just thought it was because I was 13. But now I know, it's because of the New Kids. They cause a certain energy to flow through me like insomnia on hyphy juice.

Around 5 AM, they started handing out wristbands. We were the first group with the red wristbands. We also got t-shirts from Z100 radio station. They said we had to promise to wear them. I wore mine over my NKOTB Still Kickin Ass t-shirt. Oh, I just remembered, we also got stickers! I can't seem to find them right now but I'll look again.

5:45 AM-ish, someone spotted Donnie & Jon on the stage. I tried to look but I couldn't see. Eventually, I saw him through the bank's windows and felt a surge of energy shoot through my body. I was in full alertness by now. Around 6 AM, they started letting us in. I thought we were going to be on the sides because I heard that there is a large VIP section that gets put in the front of the stage. When we got in, turns out it was the VIP section that got put to the side and the earlybirds were the ones in the front of the stage!! The stage had a catwalk and our section was right next to it!! We got to see them do their rehearsal onstage. I started filming but after they did a lot of rehearsing, I realized that my battery was running out! I was so upset. But I figured that it was all gonna be on the Today Show anyway so I wasn't worried.

There was no rain during the rehearsal but when it came for showtime, it started RAINING!!! I couldn't believe mother nature was such a bitch! It didn't rain wednesday, thursday, not even saturday!! It just had to rain on the DAY OF THE CONCERT!! Well, at least rain brings good luck I guess. I was just really impressed that they didn't disappoint the fans and cancel the concert. They went out there and performed for us like it was a bright sunny day. So ironic when they sang Summertime. I love that song. So catchy! Unfortunately, the tech guys from the show had some difficulties at first so when they did their medley, it sounded pretty crappy. But did any of the fans really care? Not me. I was just glad to be there.

The highlights during the concert were that I got to shake all of their hands when they were at the catwalk. I received a free NKOTB button that had their new photo from their website on it. I met Jonathan Knight so 3 down, 2 to go. I relived my simple teenage years. I met some really great fans, Katie & Heather, one of which had an NKOTB tattoo and the other had a great Donnie denim jacket. I caught one of the towels that Donnie threw into the audience. I got to visit New York for the first time.

This trip cost me about $800 total and it was worth every penny. I could not have asked for a better first NKOTB concert experience...except maybe that darn autograph I didn't get. Even when Jon asked if there were any more things people wanted signed, I didn't say anything. I guess I was starstruck.

Anyway, that's my fan story and every word was the truth. No lies. I went to the gym today in my new NKOTB shirt from Z100. A girl saw me and said, "You went to New York?" I said, "Yes, I did." And she said, "You're so lucky!!" I wanted to hug her. I can't wait to tell my next NKOTB experience. Hopefully, my next one will be twice as nice.

Counter Snobs

Took a meaningless trip to a store yesterday whose name I shall not mention due to liability reasons. It's a beauty product store in case you're curious. I went there to because I was in a desperate search(okay maybe more spending spree than desperate) for a serum to put on my hair since I recently got highlights & needed to take care of them. Hey, I gotta go to NY in less than two weeks! I need to blend in somehow and not wear scrunchies(Ref. to Sex & The City) and stick out like a sore thumb.

Anyway, as painful as it was for me to walk into this store, I went. Let me back up. Let me just say that I have paid this store a visit before and it isn't exactly the type of store you'd want to walk into unless you want to be judged by your out of style fashion sense, your untrendy hairdo, or your non-name brand shoes. The associates there have on hair styles where there is no hair out of place, perfectly placed false eyelashes, model-type makeup, and Naomi Campbell attitude. What ever happened to "friendly customer service?" I was in a dilemma whether to go there or not. However, being the rebel that I am and always rootin' the underdog, I styled my hair like the ever beautiful Jennifer Aniston and put on a raggedy t-shirt, ski pants, & my $20 tennis shoes and strolled right in.

Yah, I got the disapproving glances here and there but you know what? I relished in the fact that I would never want to trade places with any of these booji snobs for my business casual lifestyle. I'm just that down. Anyway, I made my purchase after 30 minutes of premature judgements from the employees and walked out. What a boring event. I did, however, enjoy staring in the the cashier's 1985 bright powder blue eyeshadow though. It was straight out of a Billy Idol video.