New Edition

Lyrics

[Verse 1: Ralph Tresvant]
Earth angel, earth angel
Will you be mine?
My darling dear, love you all the time
I'm just a fool
A fool in love with you

Earth angel, earth angel
The one I adore
Love you forever and evermore
I'm just a fool
A fool in love with you (You)

[Bridge: Ralph Tresvant]
I fell for you and I knew
The vision of your love, loveliness (Ooh)
Oh, and I pray, that someday
I'll be the vision of your happiness
Oh, oh...

[Verse 2: Ralph Tresvant]
Earth angel, earth angel
Please be mine
My darling dear, love you all the time
I'm just a fool
A fool in love with you (You)
[Bridge: Ralph Tresvant]
I fell for you and I knew
The vision of your loveliness
I hope and pray that someday
That I'll be the vision of your happiness
Oh, oh, oh

[Verse 3: Ralph Tresvant]
Earth angel, earth angel
Please be mine
My darling dear, love you all the time
I'm just a fool
A fool in love with you (You, you, you)

[Outro: Ralph Tresvant]
Earth angel, yeah
Earth angel, will you be mine?
Earth angel
Love you all the time
I'm just a fool
A fool in love with you, with you, with you, with you
A fool in love with you, with you, with you, with you
Earth angel, yeah
Earth angel

Let's take a trip down memory lane and talk about one of the all-time classics from New Edition, "Earth Angel." This hit song is a cover of The Penguins's iconic tune "Earth Angel," which was first released in 1954. It's a common belief that "Earth Angel" is a perfect depiction of the golden era of doo-wop; however, New Edition put their polished R&B sound on it in 1986 with fantastic results.

About Earth Angel

New Edition's version of "Earth Angel" was featured in the popular film 'The Karate Kid II,' which was released the same year as the song. The track became an instant hit as New Edition's fans appreciated the band's homage to the classic doo-wop era. The band had extensive experience with the genre, having released several songs in that vein in the past. It also served as a reminder to the younger generation that the doo-wop era had a significant impact on music history.

The new edition of the song, which added a slow, soulful vibe to the song's original melody, was an undisputed success and reached #21 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart. While it did not make it to the top 10, it was still widely recognized as one of the best covers of "Earth Angel," and increased New Edition's already impressive street cred.

The vocals were provided by New Edition's Ralph Tresvant and Ricky Bell, whose harmonies blend perfectly in the song. The rest of the band provided the perfect backup vocals to create a smooth and soothing sound that transported listeners back to a simpler time. The style of the song is nostalgia-inducing and leaves fans with a sense of nostalgia for the doo-wop era while also serving as a beautiful tribute to it.

Aside from the harmonic structure and arrangement, "Earth Angel" also stands out for the incredible musicianship exhibited in the instrumental sections of the song. The guitar and keyboard solos blend seamlessly to create an atmospheric sonic experience that transports listeners to a different place and time. The lyrics are simple yet elegant, touching on the universal theme of love, but with a feel-good tone that is not too heavy-handed.

The Legacy of Earth Angel

While "Earth Angel" by New Edition may not be as well-known as some of their other hits like "Candy Girl" or "Cool It Now," it remains a classic tune that speaks to the power of tradition and paying homage to one's musical roots. Through brilliant vocal harmonies, impeccable musicianship, and great songwriting, Earth Angel showcases New Edition's versatility as a band dedicated to making timeless music.

In another sense, it also speaks to the power of music in general, transcending time and space to connect different generations with commonality and shared emotions. From the doo-wop era of The Penguins in 1954 to New Edition's R&B reinvention in 1986 to how fans still find joy in the song today, "Earth Angel" has cemented its place in the pantheon of timeless music.

In short, "Earth Angel" is one of those songs that will always hold a special place in the hearts of fans everywhere, a classic example of a song that defies time, one that stands the test of time, and a vibrant tribute to the music that came before while also remaining relevant today. A must-listen for music enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

• Release Date: November 24, 1986
• Artist: New Edition