Behind the Music: Bell Biv DeVoe, now available on Paramount+, is part of a revamped version of the popular music documentary series that was once a staple on VH1. The hour-long episode delves into the rise, fall, and potential redemption of the R&B trio Bell Biv DeVoe, featuring new interviews with the group’s members alongside archival footage from their heyday in the 1980s and ’90s. The episode explores their transition from the boy band sensation New Edition to the smooth New Jack Swing sound of BBD, highlighted by the smash hit single “Poison.”
The documentary takes viewers back to New Edition’s early days, when they were compared to the Jackson 5 and gained fame with hits like “Candy Girl” and “Cool it Now.” However, internal conflicts and bad contracts led to the group’s dissolution, with members leaving and new ones joining. Bell Biv DeVoe emerged from this turmoil, with producers like Hank Shocklee helping them create their signature sound that blended hip-hop and R&B. Despite their initial success with “Poison,” the group faced challenges that ultimately led to a hiatus in the mid-90s.
As the episode unfolds, viewers witness the struggles faced by each member of Bell Biv DeVoe as they navigate personal and professional challenges. The group’s attempt to evolve with the changing music landscape, conflicts within the trio, and a tumultuous tour with New Edition all contributed to their eventual hiatus. Through interviews and archival footage, the members reflect on their journey and the impact that fame and success had on their lives.
The documentary also draws parallels to other music docuseries, such as The New Edition Story and The Bobby Brown Story, which have explored the careers of artists associated with Bell Biv DeVoe. The episode provides a glimpse into the group’s dynamic and how they navigated the ups and downs of their career, highlighting their resilience and ability to come together despite adversity. The nostalgic visuals of colorful 80s fashion and iconic music moments add to the overall experience.
Ultimately, Behind the Music: Bell Biv DeVoe offers a concise and engaging look at the group’s rise to fame, struggles, and eventual redemption. By combining new interviews with archival footage, the episode provides a comprehensive overview of Bell Biv DeVoe’s evolution as artists and individuals. Fans of the group and music enthusiasts alike will enjoy this behind-the-scenes look at the trials and triumphs of one of R&B’s most iconic groups.
