[2] By Spring 1985, New Edition was one of the biggest pop acts in the world after the success of their self-titled second album released the year before.

While most of the members were comfortable with the group's direction, Bobby Brown was becoming increasingly discontent and unappreciative with its bubblegum pop image.

[3] Vincent Brantley, the album's main producer, had originally sought to give Brown more solo spots.

During a national tour in Oakland, California to promote the album, Brown often cut in on Tresvant's leads, performing more raunchily onstage, compared to his band mates.

Growing tension between Brown and his band mates eventually reached a standoff, which contributed to his being terminated from the group in December 1985.