New Edition gracing the cover of VIBE‘s newest issue is actually a full circle moment for the iconic R&B group that began with 2Pac‘s tragic death.
The former teen heartthrobs appear on the magazine’s June/July 2023 cover in celebration of their 40th anniversary. In a behind-the-scenes interview from the shoot published on Wednesday (July 12), Michael Bivins revealed that they were actually supposed to have their first cover back in 1996 – but they were replaced following ‘Pac’s passing — and they weren’t too pleased back then.
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“This is a full circle moment for us,” Bivins began. “In 1996 right, we were releasing the Home Again album and we did a photo shoot with VIBE. And we were scheduled to get the front cover because our album was coming out and ‘No Diggity’ was out. So we knew … that was our big moment and unfortunately 2Pac got killed that September. And when we went to the record label, they told us something that, you know, we didn’t know how to handle back then.”
He continued: “[They told us] that the cover was not going to be us no more because of the passing of 2Pac. So they put 2Pac on the cover but when you opened the insert, we was there. And we said to ourselves that we really needed that, but sometimes things happen. And if we was going to lose a cover, why not lose it to someone as iconic as a 2Pac.
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“That was one of the most humbling moments for us because it was a big thing for us so we were excited, but we realized that death is something that needs to be celebrated. So to be here today and to still see y’all and to talk to y’all to say that we’re getting the cover, it’s almost like we’re getting the cover some 30-plus years later.”
Check out the behind-the-scenes interview below:
In the spring, New Edition hit the road on the Legacy tour alongside Guy and Keith Sweat – but they were down a member at times. Midway through the trek, Bobby Brown announced he was pulling out of a few shows due to “exhaustion.”
“To my New Edition Texas fans, I love you, and I’m sorry I missed you this weekend. San Diego-Be ready!! You will get the best of me and my New Edition brothers,” Brown said in a statement.
He later rejoined with no further issues.
Meanwhile, a one-of-a-kind artifact that belonged to 2Pac is exhibiting just how valuable he is to the culture — to the tune of $300,000 and upwards.
On July 18, Sotheby’s will host an auction to celebrate 50 years of Hip Hop and a crown ring designed by the late legend is one of its main attractions. ‘Pac wore the piece of jewelry during his last public appearance in 1996, soon after which he was fatally shot at the age of 25.
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The Death Row rapper recruited New York jewelers to help him realize his vision. He was subsequently spotted wearing it on his finger during the MTV Video Music Awards that took place less than 10 days before his death. The item comprises gold, diamonds and rubies, and is projected to fetch north of $300,000 once bidding begins.
