Flashback Friday: Bell Biv Devoe ‘Poison’ + Casey Kasem Spotlight

P-p-p-poison! The Bell Biv Devoe 1990 hit is our spotlight song for this B101.7 Flashback Friday! Plus, a special bonus, the countdown icon Casey Kasem introduces the hit!

Bell Biv Devoe is the trio of guys who were members of New Edition. The group's formation came at a time when the other New Edition members, like Bobby Brown, left for solo careers. So, Ricky Bell, Michael Bivins, and Ronnie DeVoe decided to do their own thing under a new group name, Bell Biv Devoe. "Poison," was their first single release in 1990 and remains their biggest hit. The song peaked at #3 on the Billboard pop chart.

However, the song/group did make it to #1 on Casey Kasem's "Top 10 New Acts of 1990!" Sure did. We'll get to that, after this long distance dedication. Ha! If you ever listened to Kasem's American Top 40, you get that dedication reference. If you didn't get it, you've missed out on a legend in not just radio, but entertainment.  Casey was also the voice for Shaggy on the animated series, "Scooby-Doo."

Sad news continues to be reported on Casey Kasem's health and legal involvement over a family feud. CNN reports on the latest judge order- it gives Kerri Kasem the authority to have doctors end his infusions of water, food and medicine. So sad. This led me to dig around for classic show clips. This is where the countdown video came up and how this week's spotlight song was chosen.

In the Top 10 countdown, just quick pieces of the songs are played between the introductions. The BBD set up comes up at the 7:55 mark.  Stick for the end, as Casey answers viewer mail from Alabama!  Roll Tide!

America's Top 10 with Casey Kasem "Top New Acts of 1990"

Now, to the original video for the Bell Biv Devoe's hit, "Poison." You will quickly notice, it looks like it came from the early 90s, thanks to the fashion. The ladies in the short dresses and the guys in the baggy pants. A sign of the times. Gotta love this old school jam! Watch it below.

Bell Biv Devoe "Poison"

Listen for the B101.7 Flashback Friday Spotlight every Friday after 5pm with Greg Thomas. Every weekend, join Louie Linguini for the Saturday Night Party loaded with your favorite flashback party songs!