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Top 5 Most Popular New Kids on the Block Songs of All Time

If you grew up in the late ‘80s or early ‘90s, chances are you know at least a few New Kids on the Block songs by heart. NKOTB helped define…

Donnie Wahlberg, Joey McIntyre, Jordan Knight, Danny Wood, and Jonathan Knight of New Kids On The Block pose for a photo
(Photo by Scott Gries/Getty Images)

If you grew up in the late ‘80s or early ‘90s, chances are you know at least a few New Kids on the Block songs by heart. NKOTB helped define the boy band craze, delivering catchy pop anthems and unforgettable ballads that still get crowds singing along today. Let’s count down the top 5 most popular New Kids on the Block songs that made history and secured their place as pop icons.

1. Step by Step

Arguably the group’s biggest hit, “Step by Step” topped the Billboard Hot 100 in 1990 and became NKOTB’s signature song. Its infectious chorus and danceable beat made it a staple at parties and concerts, and it remains a fan favorite decades later. We know you know each step, too.

2. Hangin’ Tough

The title track from their breakthrough album, Hangin’ Tough, soared to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1989. With its empowering lyrics and infectious, chant-worthy hook, the song quickly became an anthem for NKOTB fans everywhere. It’s nearly impossible to listen without waving your hands side to side along with the crowd.

3. You Got It (The Right Stuff)

With its iconic “Oh-oh-oh-oh-oh” intro, “You Got It (The Right Stuff)” is instantly recognizable - do you remember the dance moves, too? The song peaked at No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 and helped propel NKOTB to international stardom.

4. Please Don’t Go Girl

“Please Don’t Go Girl” marked New Kids on the Block’s breakthrough into the top 10, peaking at No. 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1988. This soulful ballad highlighted the group’s harmonies and emotional range, captivating fans old and new. Notably, the lead vocals were performed by the group’s youngest member, Joey McIntyre, who recorded the song at just 12 years old.

5. I’ll Be Loving You (Forever)

A classic NKOTB slow jam, “I’ll Be Loving You (Forever)” became their first No. 1 single on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1989. Its heartfelt lyrics and romantic melody have made it a wedding and prom favorite for decades. Thank you, Jordan Knight.

Whether you’re a lifelong Blockhead or just discovering their music, these five songs are the essential soundtrack of New Kids on the Block’s enduring legacy.

Kristen Herrmann is the Program Director and Weekday Morning Show Host on BEN FM. She has been a fixture on the radio in Philadelphia since 2005. As a content creator for BEN FM, Kristen specializes in all things Philadelphia, kids, family and favors the quirky stuff.