"When Will I See You Smile Again?" is a classic R&B track by Bell Biv DeVoe from their 1990 debut album Poison. The song captures a heartfelt plea for forgiveness after messing up a relationship, with its catchy chorus pleading for a return to happier times.

Song Background

Released as the fourth single from Poison , it peaked at #63 on the Billboard Hot 100 and #3 on the R&B chart in 1990. Produced by Timmy Gatling and Alton "Wokie" Stewart, the track features the group's signature new jack swing style, blending smooth vocals with emotional lyrics about regret and reconciliation.

Full Lyrics Breakdown

The lyrics revolve around apology and longing, structured with verses, bridges, and a repetitive hook. Here's a complete rendition drawn from verified sources: [Intro]
I'm so sorry baby, I never meant to hurt you
Please forgive me
La da da da da da da... [Verse 1]
Tears I see drop from your eyes, tell me why you cry
Guilt I feel when you look at me, did I let you down? [Bridge]
Girl, you see that I, I apologize
Tell me what to do to get through to you
Girl, it's not the same, I know I was to blame
Just tell me, when will I see you smile again? [Chorus]
Tell me, when will I see you smile again?
'Cause I know I messed up, baby (Oh)
And I know you're fed up, sugar (Hey, hey)
Tell me, when will I see you smile again? (Oh, ooh, oh, oh) [Verse 2]
Promises I know I made many times before, and I broke each one of them
But I had to learn over and over again, don't hurt the one you love (Bridge and Chorus repeat with variations, building to an emotional spoken plea: "Look baby, listen... Please forgive me for all the wrong I've done... And that is, when will I see you smile again?")

Cultural Impact

This track remains a fan favorite for its relatable theme of seeking redemption in love, often featured in 90s R&B playlists and covers. A Ricky Bell solo version exists, tying back to New Edition roots, while recent forum chatter (like on Reddit's Lostwave) confuses it with mystery songs, showing its enduring mystery-like appeal in pop culture hunts.

TL;DR: Bell Biv DeVoe's 1990 hit begs for a smile post-mess-up—timeless R&B regret at its finest.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.