The Old Guys On The Block?

They're not new and they're definitely not kids any more but they are back on the block. The New Kids have announced plans for their first new album in 14 years and a world tour.

20 years after their smash hit album "Hanging Tough", New Kids On The Block reunite to prove that in their 30s they still have The Right Stuff. After selling over 70 Million albums worldwide the group hopes to reignite the excitement they once drew, in their younger days from audience both young and old. Joey McIntyre, Donnie Wahlberg, Danny Wood and Jordan and Jonathan Knight were the first white boy band from Boston who paved the way for groups like 'N Sync and the Backstreet Boys. As teenagers they enjoyed massive success as one of the biggest bands in the world. As the years went on the group disbanded to pursue solo gigs and acting careers, most with little to no success. The group hopes to recapture their spark with the new album "Long live the Block!"

"It is better than Christmas," said Jonathan Knight.

Donnie Wahlberg said that the the group wasn't planning on making the announcement so soon but the news was leaked and fans were wondering what was going on so they decided to confirm the rumors.

"The fans got a little excited, but they got a little unsure, so we thought we better come out and let them know it's official. We hope to tour in the fall—we're already setting up limited dates."

newkidsontheblock.com

The Middle Aged Entertainers Are Back On The Block

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EOnline reports that the group members, who made their names at an early age are now middle aged men and are sure to become fodder for late night talk shows and comic acts as they attempt to reclaim their fame. Jonathan Knight is the oldest at age 39; Wahlberg and Wood are both 38; Jordan Knight is 37; and McIntyre (the baby) is 35.

"We've got some new material," Wahlberg said. "We're going to dance, we're going to sing, we're going to do it all." "We're all kids at heart, so it's not going to change," he said.

It's interesting to do the math to determine exactly how old an original New Kids On The Block fan would be now, 20 years after the big hit. Say on average a NKOTB fan was 16 years old at the groups height -- they'd now be 36. Will 36-year-old adults show up to support their old teen idols? Will the man-band be able to pull in a younger pop audience? The groups first show will be on May 16th on the Today show.