In April 1986, Columbia Records released the group 's self - titled debut album. The album, almost exclusively written and produced by Maurice Starr, featured mid 80s bubblegum pop material. The first single, "Be My Girl '', received minor airplay around the group 's native Boston, but failed to capture nationwide attention. The album 's second single, "Stop It Girl '', fared even worse. The New Kids went on tour around the New England states, singing wherever Starr could book them: in bars, school dances, and clubs. Nevertheless, Starr remained diligent and persuaded the label to allow the group to record a second album.
when did new kids on the block come out
April 1986