Ralph Tresvant, at 57, has finally opened up about the tumultuous history of New Edition and the dark truths that have long been hidden.

His revelations shed light on the predatory contracts, betrayals, and internal conflicts that nearly tore the group apart, changing how fans view these beloved R&B legends.

Tresvant recounted a pivotal moment when the group returned to their roots in Boston after their first major tour. Instead of celebrating their success, they were handed envelopes containing checks for just $1.87 each. This shocking amount starkly contrasted with their achievements, highlighting the exploitative nature of their contracts.

Their manager, Maurice Starr, had structured deals that left the young performers responsible for all expenses, meaning they received little to no profit despite their chart-topping success.

The contracts, signed by their mothers, were predatory from the start. The boys were unaware of the financial implications, as they were too young to grasp the complexities of the music industry.

Tresvant expressed how painful it was to see his friends and their families struggle financially while their music generated millions. The $1.87 checks became symbolic of the systemic exploitation faced by young Black artists.

As the years went by, Bobby Brown’s struggles with addiction became increasingly apparent, affecting his performances and relationships within the group.

Tresvant watched helplessly as his childhood friend spiraled into a world of drugs and erratic behavior. The tension reached a breaking point during a reunion tour in 1996 when Brown’s antics led to a physical confrontation with another band member, showcasing the internal dysfunction that plagued New Edition.

The situation escalated further when gunshots rang out during a performance, a terrifying moment that underscored the dangerous environment surrounding the group. Tresvant realized that the reunion tour, which should have been a celebration, had turned into a nightmare filled with violence and chaos.

The addition of Johnny Gill to New Edition in 1987 was another source of conflict. Tresvant discovered Gill was joining the group while recording the *Heartbreak* album, a decision made without his consultation. This betrayal deepened the rift within the group, as Tresvant felt sidelined despite his role as the lead singer.

As the members pursued solo careers, Tresvant grappled with feelings of resentment and abandonment. While his bandmates achieved significant success, he felt pressure to compete for recognition and support.

The internal politics surrounding the use of the New Edition name for touring led to legal disputes, revealing a lack of communication and trust among the members.

The formation of RBRM, a new configuration of the group without Tresvant, marked a public humiliation for him. Bobby Brown’s decision to crop Tresvant out of a group photo was a deliberate insult, highlighting the fractures within their relationships.

Despite the betrayals and conflicts, Tresvant acknowledged that their musical chemistry and shared history kept drawing them back together. His recent reconciliation with Bobby Brown on stage was both healing and painful, reminding them of their deep-rooted connection amid the chaos.

Ultimately, Tresvant’s revelations expose the harsh realities of the music industry and the exploitation faced by artists like New Edition. Their story serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of understanding contracts, retaining control over creative output, and the need for psychological support in artistic collaborations.

The cycle of reconciliation and betrayal may continue, but the legacy of New Edition remains a testament to resilience in the face of adversity.