Bobby Brown returns to Central Indiana stage with New Edition

Bobby Brown is back on the road with New Edition. The group is performing on the New Edition Way Tour, with a scheduled stop on March 29, 2026. This marks a return to the stage for the singer, who is currently touring with his former bandmates.

Brown’s connection to Central Indiana dates back to the beginning of his career. In 1985, he performed with New Edition in Merrillville, Indiana. The group also played at the Screamin’ Wheels Roller Rink in Gary, Indiana, in January 1983. That early performance featured Ralph Tresvant, Bobby Brown, Michael Bivins, Ricky Bell, and Ronnie DeVoe.

Brown, born Robert Barisford Brown on February 5, 1969, rose to fame as a member of New Edition from its inception in 1978 until his exit in December 1985. He is recognized as a pioneer of New Jack Swing, a genre that fused hip-hop and R&B. He developed this sound alongside frequent collaborator Teddy Riley. The group has reunited multiple times since Brown’s initial departure.

His solo career achieved commercial success following his departure from New Edition. His 1988 album, Don’t Be Cruel, produced five Billboard Hot 100 top 10 singles. The album included the number one hit “My Prerogative” and the GRAMMY-winning song “Every Little Step.” In 1989, Brown contributed two songs to the Ghostbusters II soundtrack.

Brown married singer Whitney Houston in 1992. The couple had a daughter, Bobbi Kristina Brown. They appeared together at various events, including the 1998 MTV Video Music Awards and the Fourth Annual International Achievement in Arts Awards. Brown is now remarried to Alicia Etheredge. They share three children.

Recent public appearances include a performance with Teddy Riley at the 2016 Soul Train Music Awards. In April 2021, Brown was revealed as The Crab during Season 5 of The Masked Singer. He has also participated in fashion events, such as walking the runway for Michael Herrera at LA Fashion Week in October 2013.

The New Edition Way Tour continues to bring the group to audiences across the country. The upcoming date in Central Indiana allows local fans to see the group perform in the region where Brown first gained fame in the early 1980s.