**Ricky Bell Spills the Truth About Bell Biv DeVoe**

Bell Biv DeVoe (BBD) was never meant to be more than a quick side project. Originally formed as a spin-off from New Edition while the group worked through internal chaos, BBD shocked the music world by changing R&B forever.

Their debut album, *Poison*, became an instant classic, blending hip-hop and R&B in a way no one had done before. They dominated the New Jack Swing era, proving they didn’t need Bobby Brown, Ralph Tresvant, or Johnny Gill to succeed. But behind the flashy suits, chart-topping hits, and smooth choreography, BBD faced struggles that almost destroyed them.

In the late 1980s, New Edition was falling apart. Bobby Brown had been kicked out, Ralph was considering a solo career, and Johnny Gill had just joined the group.

Amidst this turmoil, producers Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis saw potential in Ricky Bell, Michael Bivins, and Ronnie DeVoe. They pitched an idea: instead of polished R&B ballads, the trio would create a new sound—a fusion of hip-hop and R&B with a street-smart image. This reinvention birthed Bell Biv DeVoe.

Their debut single, “Poison,” was a game-changer. The song exploded, topping charts and selling over 4 million copies. BBD became the face of New Jack Swing, with their unique style and swagger redefining R&B.

However, the industry didn’t fully embrace them. Critics dismissed them as a one-hit wonder, and their label, while profiting from their success, didn’t invest in their long-term growth.

The pressure to replicate the success of *Poison* was immense. Their second album, *Hootie Mack*, felt rushed and lacked the same impact as their debut.

The industry quickly moved on, and New Jack Swing began to fade from the mainstream. Without the same level of label support, BBD struggled to stay relevant. But the challenges weren’t just professional—Ricky Bell, in particular, faced personal demons that nearly cost him everything.

During BBD’s peak, Ricky Bell battled addiction. The pressures of fame and the lack of industry support led him to drugs as a coping mechanism.

At his worst, Bell was spending thousands of dollars a week on his habit, hiding his struggles from his bandmates and loved ones. His addiction spiraled out of control, leaving him broke and on the verge of losing everything, including his marriage. It wasn’t until his wife gave him an ultimatum that Bell sought help, checking into rehab and beginning the journey to recovery.

While Bell worked on himself, BBD faced an uncertain future. The industry had largely written them off, but instead of giving up, they leaned into their loyal fan base.

They embraced their legacy, touring relentlessly and reconnecting with audiences. Over time, their music found new life, with “Poison” becoming a timeless party anthem.

In 2017, BBD made a triumphant comeback with their album *Three Stripes* and the release of the BET biopic *The New Edition Story*. The biopic reintroduced their music to a new generation, solidifying their legacy.

Today, Bell Biv DeVoe continues to tour, proving that their impact on R&B is enduring. Their story is one of resilience, survival, and reinvention, showing that even when the industry moves on, true artistry can’t be erased.