Talk about a blast from the past!
New Edition and New Kids On The Block took to the stage for a sing-off at the American Music Awards in Los Angeles on Sunday night, and stole the show in the process.
The powerhouse performances, which were dubbed “The Battle of Boston,” saw the two Massachusetts-based boy bands go back and forth, belting out their most iconic tracks as a star-studded audience watched on.
NKOTB appeared on the AMAs stage first, launching into a rendition of their 1988 smash “You Got It (The Right Stuff).”
The five-piece — four of whom are now aged in their 50s — proved they still have the moves, performing a choreographed dance routine while clad in black leather outfits.
Immediately afterward, New Edition assembled on stage to belt out their iconic 1983 ditty “Candy Girl.” It was the first time the band had performed at the AMAs since 1997.
A back and forth between the two legendary pop groups ensued, with NKOTB returning to sing their smash “Step by Step,” before New Edition performed “Mr. Telephone Man.”
The boy bands then joined forces, performing several of their hit songs together, much to the delight of a screaming audience.
K-pop boy band BTS — who have no doubt been inspired by both New Edition and NKOTB — were seen enthusiastically dancing along in the crowd.
NKOTB singer Joey McIntyre, now 48, echoed the sentiments of many of a fan by announcing afterward on the post-show red carpet: “My 13-year-old self is freaking out right now.”
Viewers watching at home were also similarly delighted, with the performance trending on Twitter.
“Absolutely stole the show! Best part of the night,” one nostalgic fan tweeted.
“Dudes in their 50s still putting on a show!” another admirer enthused.
Others pointed out that both New Edition and NKOTB paved the way for the boy bands of today. One fan wrote: “Intentional or not, what the AMAs did last night by having New Edition & New Kids On The Block on a night when BTS won big was really special, showcasing the arc of what’s called ‘boy bands’…Then to see the respect and love between them is just beautiful & heart-warming.”
BTS were indeed the big winners of the night, taking home the coveted Artist of The Year award.
The South Korean singers beat out Taylor Swift, Olivia Rodrigo, Drake, Ariana Grande and The Weeknd to nab the honor. They scooped up two other awards, including Favorite Pop Song.
Meanwhile, NKOTB have announced their are heading out on a cross-country tour from May next year. Sunday’s performance has fans calling for New Edition to join them on the road.
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