“You Got It (The Right Stuff)” is a song by the American boy band New Kids on the Block (NKOTB). Released in November 1988 as the second single from their second studio album, Hangin’ Tough, the song became one of their most iconic hits and helped to catapult the group to international fame.
New Kids on the Block, managed by Maurice Starr, were one of the pioneering boy bands of the late 1980s and early 1990s. Maurice Starr, who also wrote and produced much of their music, was instrumental in shaping their sound and image. “You Got It (The Right Stuff)” was written and produced by Starr, and it was part of his vision to create a blend of pop, R&B, and teen idol appeal.
“You Got It (The Right Stuff)” was a commercial success, peaking at number 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. It also performed well internationally, reaching the top 10 in several countries, including the UK, Canada, and Australia. The song’s success was a key factor in the Hangin’ Tough album’s multi-platinum status. The single’s popularity helped to establish New Kids on the Block as a leading pop act and teen sensation, paving the way for their subsequent hits and extensive merchandising.
The music video for “You Got It (The Right Stuff)” features the band members—Jordan Knight, Jonathan Knight, Joey McIntyre, Donnie Wahlberg, and Danny Wood—performing choreographed dance routines in various urban settings. The video highlights the group’s synchronized dance moves, youthful energy, and stylish appearance, which were crucial to their appeal among teen audiences.
The success of “You Got It (The Right Stuff)” and the Hangin’ Tough album marked the beginning of a major wave of popularity for New Kids on the Block. They became a cultural phenomenon, influencing subsequent boy bands and pop acts. The song’s success demonstrated the commercial viability of the boy band formula, combining catchy pop music with appealing visuals and choreographed performances.