National Museum of African American Music | Nashville TN
40 Years of Excellence!
April 16, 2023 — a day I’ll never forget. When the National Museum of African American Music in Nashville, TN, announced they’d be honoring New Edition on their 40th anniversary in music, the decision was instant: I had to be there. There were no tickets, no RSVP, just first come, first get-in — and I was determined to be in.
Mind you, Nashville is a five-hour drive from where I live. Not a quick hop, but when one of your all-time favorite groups is being honored, you gas up, grab a partner in crime, and hit the road. I asked two of my equally diehard NE-loving friends if they were up for a day trip — yes, as in, drive there, attend the event, drive back the same day. One of them tapped out (understandably), but my other ride-or-die said, “Let’s do this!”
We had to leave around 6AM sharp, but adrenaline was doing all the driving. Luckily, we’d gain an hour thanks to the time zone change, which gave us just enough cushion to stop for gas, food, and navigate the downtown parking maze near the museum.
When we arrived a little before noon, we were not alone — the line wrapped around both sides of the building! Everyone had the same thought: “There’s no way I’m missing this moment.” We waited just over an hour before the doors opened. The event was held in the museum’s bright and airy atrium. A DJ was spinning classic New Edition tracks, the gift shop was buzzing, folks were dancing, and the rest of us were scanning the space like hawks, trying to guess where the fellas might appear.
Luckily, I had my trusty partner so we could each hold down our spot in case we had to make a few moves — and it paid off. Out of nowhere, Brooke Payne, the man behind New Edition’s legacy, showed up among the crowd…right behind me! I couldn’t believe it — I got to say hi and snap a quick selfie with him. Talk about a fan dream come true!
As the crowd swelled, the energy skyrocketed. Then came the moment: New Edition arrived. Yes — all of them, including Bobby Brown! The museum’s CEO/President gave a beautiful tribute to the group, champagne toast, the big reveal of the brand new exhibit dedicated to New Edition’s career! Then, Brooke Payne took the mic and shared heartfelt words about their journey and impact. The excitement in the room was off the charts as each member of NE stepped up to the mic to thank the fans and the museum for the honor.
Before the guys had to leave, they posed for photos near the display. The DJ kept the vibes alive with NE Music. The whole experience was a perfect blend of nostalgia, celebration, and love for a group that has given us four decades of timeless music and unforgettable performances.
I’m so grateful I made the journey. Sleep-deprived? Maybe. But the joy of being part of such an iconic moment made every mile worth it. 40 years strong and New Edition is still giving us their all.
