Legendary performers Ricky Bell, Michael Bivins, and Ron DeVoe will be using their gift to spread love and give back in their hometown and beyond. On Sunday (Sept. 3), Bell Biv DeVoe announced that they have aligned with Boston Mayor Martin J. Walsh and Senator Linda Dorcena Forry for a “Unity Concert” on Saturday, September 9. The free show starts at 7 p.m. at City Hall Plaza in Boston, and will feature local talent as opening acts.
“Not only is Boston the city that birthed and launched us into the world, it is a city that’s given back to its citizens time and time again,” the group said collectively in a statement released to the press. “We realize the phrase ‘Boston Strong’ is not just a catchy adjective but a dutiful verb, that only through our actions and the efforts of our fellow Bostonians, will we continue to help our city remain the beacon of strength, hope and resilience for an entire nation to rely upon. On behalf of BBD and our manager, Brooke Payne, we are extremely proud to be here. And no matter where we are in the world, we will always answer Boston’s call.”
In late August, tens of thousands of Bostonians marched in protest against white nationalists, KKK members and neo-Nazis who were having their own rally in the city. In addition to bringing people together, BBD will also use the concert as a means to have a donation drive for the Houston Independent School District. Concertgoers are asked to bring school supplies that will be given to families and children in Houston who are trying to recover in the wake of the natural disaster Hurricane Harvey.
“This is going to be a great concert for the people of Boston to come together and for us to continue to show Houston that we are here to support them as they recover,” Mayor Walsh promised in the statement. “I want to thank Michael, Ricky and Ronnie for working tirelessly with City Hall and Senator Forry to make their vision a reality. I encourage everyone to come to City Hall Plaza on Saturday, drop off a donation for Houston if you can, and enjoy an unforgettable night of entertainment.”
“Boston is proud to be the hometown of Bell Biv DeVoe and New Edition,” Senator Forry added. “They have always represented Boston so well to the country and the world. We are so excited to have them return to Boston for an unforgettable, free performance.”
Bell Biv DeVoe, who dropped their LP Three Stripes at the top of the year, are fresh off a successful summer run of their “Three Stripes” tour which featured opening act SWV and rotating support that included Dru Hill and En Vogue. BBD are also gearing up to join their New Edition group members on October 1 for the start of rehearsals for their end of the year “Family Affair” tour.