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Alright - I'm about to geek out. Pardon me if I drool and eventually pass out. They're back: The New Kids on the Block.

When I was in the sixth grade - they were the ultimate! I faithfully soaked up every fact, song, and tidbit I possibly could. I was a blockhead, proudly. And now they've made the official announcement that they are reuniting for a tour and putting out new music.

Often known as "the original boy band," the group known as New Kids On The Block (NKOTB) enjoyed super-stardom in the late 80's and early 90's. Selling over 70 million albums worldwide, and generating billions of dollars in concert revenues alone, NKOTB is said to have been the fore-runners for bubble gum pop and "boy band" success. The Backstreet Boys and NSYNC mirror NKOTB's recipe for success with charming young men, synchronized dance moves and screaming teenage fans.

In 1994, with the industry shifting towards grunge and an edgier style, NKOTB amicably disbanded - much to their fans' dismay. Each member went on to pursue their own interests and careers.

Jonathan Knight began a career in real estate, leaving the entertainment business and following a lifestyle more suited to his gentle temperament. His brother, Jordan, continued to follow his musical interests. Knight's self-titled solo album was released in 1999.The album was certified gold. Jordan continued to enjoy success with a top 10 hit: "Give It to You." Jordan continues to record and tour. Joe McIntyre also released a solo album, Stay the Same, scoring a top 10 hit with the album's title track. McIntyre has enjoyed a successful acting career. He became a regular on Boston Public and has performed in Broadway musicals. Danny Wood took a more behind the scenes approach to music when he formed a Boston-based record label. With D-Fuse, he released a 1999 album called Room Full of Smoke. Wood continues to produce and release music today. Donnie Wahlberg has begun a stellar career in acting. Wahlberg appeared in Ransom (1996), Southie (1998), The Sixth Sense (1999), the Saw film series, and Band of Brothers.

Of course, with the reunion announcement, the nay-sayers are out in force. The fans knew this reaction was coming. There's always the jealous boys (who are now men and really should grow up) who hate the New Kids and whine about "artistic purity," and other such noble concepts. The "haters" claim the New Kids are "fake" and generated to appeal to the masses.

In all actuality they are brilliant musicians and talented performers

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