Over 35 years after first skyrocketing to fame, New Kids on the Block (NKOTB) have proven that they didn’t just grow up—they evolved. Kicking off the first leg of their Las Vegas residency, the legendary boyband gave fans an unforgettable show that blended a mix of spectacle, soul, and pure fun.
The group—comprised of Joey McIntyre, Donnie Wahlberg, Danny Wood, and brothers Jordan and Jonathan Knight—transformed the Dolby Theater at the Park MGM into a vibrant hub for the Blockhead universe.
Their setlist, which included a combination of classic hits, deep cuts, and reimagined fan favorites, was not just a celebration of their music but a tribute to the loyal fans who’ve grown up with them over the years.
Joey McIntyre reflected on the significance of their “The Right Stuff” residency, named after their 1989 smash hit: “It’s Vegas, so we had to bring everything we have to make it the biggest and best show we’ve ever done.
But at the heart of it, it’s still the five of us up there doing what we did when we were teenagers—with the same heart, passion, and desires.”
A Nod to Their Origins: Boston and Subway Dreams
The nostalgia was palpable throughout the show, with childhood photos and vintage music videos flashing on screens during set changes. The band cleverly tied in their Boston roots with their opening number, where the five members emerged from a life-size replica of the city’s subway trains.
Joey explained, “We used to dream about coming out of the train in 1985. How could we enter the show any other way? We grew up on the subway. It felt right to start the show this way because it’s where we started.”
A Sleek Show with High-Flying Stunts and a Rat Pack Twist
While nostalgia formed a key part of the experience, the band also introduced exciting new elements that broke from their retro past. With a mix of sleek production numbers, high-flying stunts, and cheeky moments designed just for their fans, the residency felt fresh and modern.
One of the standout moments was a Rat Pack-style showcase featuring sequined dinner jackets, cabaret-style tables, and lounge dancers. During this sultry segment, NKOTB reinterpreted fan favorites like “Click Click Click,” “Full Service,” “Boys in the Band,” and “Never Let You Go” in a jazzy, vintage manner that evoked the golden era of Las Vegas entertainment.
A unique moment in the show saw Donnie Wahlberg officiating a mock quickie wedding ceremony between the band and the audience—perfectly capturing the playful and affectionate bond between NKOTB and their fans. “We’re already bonded for life, us and the fans, so we might as well make it official,” Donnie quipped.
Getting Closer to the Fans: The Airborne Stunt
One of the most elaborate stunts of the night involved the band members being hoisted into the air in light-up boxes. These flying platforms allowed the members to sing directly to fans seated in the upper balcony levels.
“I think it’s safe to say that we get closer to our fans in this show than ever before—literally,” Donnie said, as he joined the others in running into the crowd for hugs, high-fives, and selfies during an extended version of “Tonight.”
Jonathan Knight added, “We’re always thinking about our fans. They’ve heard these songs dozens of times, so we wanted to surprise them with a new look and feel.” The band’s focus on innovation and connection with their audience was clear throughout the show, ensuring fans got a fresh take on the songs they’ve cherished for decades.
A Nod to Their Past: The Buick LeSabre
Despite the splashy Las Vegas-style production, NKOTB ensured their show stayed true to their roots. During the encore, the band rolled on stage in a souped-up replica of the 1971 Buick LeSabre convertible—the same car featured in their iconic 1989 video for “The Right Stuff.”
This playful yet poignant gesture was a tribute to their past, showing how they’ve evolved while always staying connected to their origins.
“We just want them to feel proud of being fans, and to be proud of us,” said Jordan Knight. “We want them to know we’re not taking this for granted. It means so much to us that they travel across the country, spend money to stay in hotels, and come to our show. We just want to give them their money’s worth and show them that we really care.”
A Show of Love, Connection, and Evolution
NKOTB’s “The Right Stuff” residency is a celebration of everything that made them pop music icons, while also embracing a new chapter in their legacy.
With high-energy performances, breathtaking production, and a deeply rooted connection with their fans, the band proved that they are not just living off nostalgia—they’re evolving with it.
Whether it’s through high-flying stunts, Rat Pack-style performances, or heartfelt moments with fans, NKOTB’s Las Vegas residency is a testament to the enduring power of music, love, and connection. For Blockheads, it’s a show they’ll never forget.
