Brooke Payne was born on March 12, 1950, in Boston, Massachusetts. Raised in a culturally rich environment, Payne developed an early appreciation for music, setting the stage for a career in the entertainment industry that would span decades.
Brooke Payne is widely recognized in the hip-hop and R&B music scenes for his influential work as a manager and producer. He played a pivotal role in launching and managing the careers of top R&B acts, including New Edition, Bell Biv DeVoe, and LSG. His guidance helped shape the sound and image of these groups, particularly during transformative periods in their careers.
Although Brooke Payne never performed or sang with New Edition, many fans and industry insiders informally refer to him as the group's "seventh member." As the group's original choreographer and longtime manager, Payne was instrumental in developing their polished, pop-friendly image that revolutionized the R&B genre. His behind-the-scenes influence helped New Edition break into mainstream success, setting a blueprint for future young Black artists in pop and R&B music.
Brooke Payne is also known as the uncle of Ronnie DeVoe, one of the founding members of both New Edition and Bell Biv DeVoe. Their family connection further strengthened Payne’s influence on the group’s artistic direction and career longevity.
| Net Worth 2020: | 2 million |
| Net Worth 2021: | 2 million |
