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Last updated on Oct 6,2024, updated monthly. |
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 1 . All_4_One - I SwearThe group All-4-One, composed of Jamie Jones, Delious Kennedy, Alfred Nevarez, and Tony Borowiak, is known for their vocal harmonies. Their track "I Swear," produced by David Foster and released in 1994, is a pop ballad that achieved global success and won a Grammy Award. Covered in several films and TV shows, "I Swear" was hilariously parodied in the 2013 animated comedy "Despicable Me 2." The music video is directed by Marcus Nispel. The Singing Minions
Minions - YMCAThe Minions perform their version of the Village People's "YMCA" during Gru and Lucy's wedding in "Despicable Me 2".
Minions - BananaFeatured in the teaser trailer for "Despicable Me 2", this song is a parody of "Barbara Ann" where Minions sing about bananas.
Minions - I Swear (Underwear)The Minions sing a humorous version of "I Swear" by All-4-One, substituting "underwear" in the lyrics, in "Despicable Me 2".
Minions - Minions Take the StageIn "Despicable Me 3", the Minions perform various songs while in prison, showcasing their comedic and musical talents. Writer(s) : Frank Joseph Myers, Gary B Baker Publisher(s) : Wc Music Corp, Mpca Lehsem Music, Publishing Twos Music Featured on the 1994 album All-4-One
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 2 . Bell Biv DeVoe - Poison"Poison," released in 1990, is the debut single from Bell Biv DeVoe, members of New Edition. This iconic track popularized the "new jack swing" genre, blending R&B and hip-hop. Produced by Dr. Freeze, "Poison" is known for its catchy beat and lyrics about toxic relationships - "Never trust a big butt and smile," the chorus advises. The song peaked at number three on the Billboard Hot 100 and remains a 90s classic. Bell Biv DeVoe continued to influence music with hits like "Do Me!" and memorable reunion tour performances. The music video is directed by Lionel C. Martin. Writer(s) : Christopher Mikel Bivins Publisher(s) : Tunecore Global Featured on the 1990 album Poison
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 3 . NSYNC - Bye Bye ByeNSYNC's "Bye Bye Bye," released on January 17, 2000, reflects both personal and professional separation. Written by Andreas Carlsson, while taking a driving test in Stockholm, and produced by Kristian Lundin and Jake Schulze, it narrates the emotional turbulence of ending a relationship, while subtly hinting at the group's split from manager Lou Pearlman and their RCA label. Initially intended for British group 5ive, the song peaks at #4 on the Billboard Hot 100. The music video is directed by Wayne Isham. Writer(s) : Andreas Carlsson, Jacob Ivar Tilson Schulze, Kristian Lundin Publisher(s) : Andreas Carlsson, Jacob Ivar Tilson Schulze, Kristian Lundin Featured on the 2000 album No Strings Attached
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 4 . Let Loose - Crazy For YouProduced by Nicky Graham, "Crazy For You" by Let Loose came out in 1993. The British group, formed in 1988, saw notable success with this track, which remains their most iconic song. "Crazy For You" is often associated with 90s parties and appears on several compilations from that decade. Writer(s) : Richard Joh N Wermerling Publisher(s) : Red Songs Ltd Featured on the 1994 album Let Loose
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 5 . No Mercy - Please Don't Go"Please Don't Go" by German pop group No Mercy, released in 1997, is a cover of KC and the Sunshine Band's classic. Produced by Frank Farian, known for his work with Boney M and Milli Vanilli, the track, noted for its vocal harmonies and modern arrangement, was an international hit, reaching the top 10 in several countries. The music video is directed by Hannes Rossacher. Writer(s) : Franz Reuther, Martin Cintron III, Bischof Fallenstein Ter, Mary Susan Klopprogge Publisher(s) : Sony Atv Music Publishing Llc, Far Musikverlag Gmbh Featured on the 1996 album My Promise
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 6 . No Mercy - Missing"Missing" by American group No Mercy, released in 1996, is a cover of Everything but the Girl's hit. No Mercy's version, with its Latin influences and dance beats, became a hit in Europe and the US. Formed in Germany by producer Frank Farian, the group consists of Marty Cintron, Ariel, and Gabriel Hernández, known for their covers and original songs in both Spanish and English. Writer(s) : Ben Watt, Tracey Anne Thorn Publisher(s) : Sony Music Publishing Featured on the 1996 album My Promise
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 7 . All_4_One - I Can Love You Like ThatThe R&B ballad "I Can Love You Like That" by All-4-One, released in 1995, is a cover of the original song by John Michael Montgomery. Known for their silky harmonies, the group transforms this originally country song into an international hit, thanks to David Foster's production. The music video is directed by Marcus Nispel. Writer(s) : Jennifer Kimball, Marybeth Derry, Steve Diamond Publisher(s) : Blue Kingdom Music, Universal Music Corporation, Criterion Music Corp, Kobalt Music Services America Inc Featured on the 1995 album And the Music Speaks
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 8 . Next - Wifey"Wifey" by Next, released in 2000, is an R&B track celebrating love and fidelity. The group, consisting of R.L. Huggar, Terry Brown, and Raphael Brown, is known for their tight harmonies and romantic lyrics. The song quickly became a hit, topping the US charts and remaining a favorite among R&B fans. The music video is directed by Jeff Richter. Writer(s) : Keir Gist, Robert L Huggar, Edward Timothy Berkeley, Gabriel Jackson Publisher(s) : Divine Mill Music, Fingaz Goal Music, Uh Oh Entertainment Inc, Ensign Music Corporation Featured on the 2000 album Welcome II Nextasy
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 9 . Jonas Brothers - Play My Music"Play My Music" by the Jonas Brothers is featured in the Disney Channel movie "Camp Rock" (2008), a story about a summer music camp, directed by Matthew Diamond and starring Demi Lovato and Joe Jonas. The song, capturing the enthusiasm and passion for music, quickly became popular among teenage fans and boosted the Jonas Brothers' fame. Writer(s) : Mitch Allan, Kara E Dioguardi Publisher(s) : Wonderland Music Company Inc, Walt Disney Music Company Featured on the 2008 album Camp Rock
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 10 . BBMak - Back Here"Back Here" by British group BBMak was released in 1999 and quickly became an international success. This pop-rock song is characterized by powerful vocal harmonies and a catchy chorus, telling the story of lost love and the desire to reunite. The music video is directed by Dani Jacobs. Writer(s) : Phil Thornalley, Mark Barry, Christian Anthony Burns, Stephen Patrick McNally Publisher(s) : Strongsongs Ltd, Bmg Music Publ Ltdfalse Featured on the 2000 album Sooner or Later
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 11 . Ready For The World - Love You DownCo-produced with Gary Spaniola, "Love You Down" by American group Ready For The World, released in 1986, is a sensual R&B ballad. Formed in the early 80s, the group combines funk and soul elements here. The song remains a classic of the 80s, covered by several artists including INOJ and Meshell Ndegéocello, and sampled by artists like Lil Wayne and Chris Brown. The music video is directed by Duncan Gibbins. Writer(s) : Melvin C Riley Publisher(s) : Ready Ready Music Featured on the 1986 album Long Time Coming
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 12 . New Edition - Mr. Telephone Man"Mr. Telephone Man," released in 1984, is one of New Edition's early hits, produced by Ray Parker Jr., known for "Ghostbusters." The song tells the story of a young man desperately trying to reach his girlfriend by phone but failing. The group, consisting of Ralph Tresvant, Bobby Brown, Ricky Bell, Michael Bivins, and Ronnie DeVoe, saw this track reach the top 20 on the pop charts and the top 10 on the R&B charts. The music video is directed by Jay Dubin. Writer(s) : Ray Erskine Parker Jr Publisher(s) : Raydiola Music Featured on the 1984 album New Edition
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 13 . East 17 - Around The WorldUsing dance-pop and R&B elements typical of the group's style, "Around The World" by East 17, released in 1994, stands out with its lyrics about travel and exploration. It topped the UK charts and is often played at concerts for its catchy beat and distinctive vocal harmonies. The music video is directed by Katie Bell. Writer(s) : Matthew Rowbottom, Anthony Micha El Mortimer, Biff, Brian Lee Harvey Publisher(s) : Porky Publishing, Concord Sounds Featured on the 1994 album Steam
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 14 . Blue - One LoveReleased in 2002, "One Love" by Blue, the British group consisting of Duncan James, Lee Ryan, Simon Webbe, and Antony Costa, is a pop anthem celebrating unity and love. Produced by the Norwegian production team StarGate, the song was a commercial success, topping the charts in several countries. The music video is directed by Cameron Casey. Writer(s) : Al Anderson, Gary Tolbert Nicholson, Kimmie Rhodes, Derrick Cason James, Christoph Spendel Publisher(s) : Gary Nicholson Music, Gracey Rhodes Productions Inc, Mighty Nice Music Featured on the 2002 album One Love
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 15 . East 17 - Deep"Deep" by East 17, released in 1993, is an R&B ballad marked by introspective lyrics, spoken rap, and a gentle melody. Known for their varied influences, the group blends soul and pop elements here. It was their first hit to reach the top 5 in the UK and the only single to appear on Billboard's main chart, often associated with the boy band's heyday. The music video is directed by Richard Heslop. Writer(s) : Anthony Micha El Mortimer Publisher(s) : Porky Publishing Featured on the 1993 album Walthamstow
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 16 . Backstreet Boys - The CallProduced by Rami and Max Martin, famous for their work with Britney Spears and NSYNC, "The Call" by the Backstreet Boys, released in 2001, stands out with its fast tempo and electronic music elements. The song tells the story of a compromising phone call—a man lies to his girlfriend on the phone to go out with another woman (shame on him!). The music video is directed by Francis Lawrence.. Writer(s) : Max Martin, Rami Yacoub Publisher(s) : Gv-Mxm, Grantsville Publishing Ltd Featured on the 2000 album Black & Blue
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 17 . Another Level - Be Alone No More"Be Alone No More" is a single by British group Another Level, released in 1998. Produced by Cutfather & Joe, the track reached number 6 on the UK charts. The 1999 remix features a collaboration with American rapper Jay Z. Writer(s) : Ivan A Matias, Andrea Martin, Steven R Dubin Publisher(s) : Warner Chappell Music Ltd, Sailandra Publishing, Almo Music Corporation, One Ol Ghetto Ho, Crash 11 Songs Featured on the 1998 album Another Level
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 18 . Soul For Real - Candy RainReleased in 1994, "Candy Rain" by Soul For Real is a 90s R&B classic - smooth harmonies and catchy rhythm - that spent three weeks at the top of the US Hot R&B Singles chart. The song was produced by Heavy D, who also worked with artists like Mary J. Blige and The Notorious B.I.G. The original bassline of "Candy Rain" samples "Baby, This Love I Have" by Minnie Riperton from her 1975 album "Adventures in Paradise." Writer(s) : Dwight Myers, Jean Claude Olivier, Samuel Barnes, Jean Claude Olivier, Samuel Barnesfalsefalse Publisher(s) : Bucks Music Group Ltd, Unknown Publisher, Evelle Music, W B Music Corp, Round Hill Tunes Ukfalse Featured on the 1994 album Candy Rain
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 19 . Westlife - Flying Without WingsOne of the group's most iconic ballads, "Flying Without Wings" by Westlife, released in 1999, talks about simple and unexpected moments of happiness. Recorded at Avatar Studios in New York and Rokstone Studios in London, it features orchestral arrangements and strong vocal harmonies. This track is used in the film "Pokémon: The Movie 2000" and the Australian film "The Magic Pudding". A live version of the song, recorded during their tour in Stockholm, also topped the UK charts in 2004. The music video is directed by Cameron Casey. Writer(s) : Steve Aliway, Mac Publisher(s) : Rokstone Music, Rondor Music Ltd (London) Featured on the 1999 album Westlife
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 20 . Puff Daddy - I'll Be Missing You (w/ Faith Evans & 112)"I'll Be Missing You" by Puff Daddy featuring Faith Evans and 112, released in 1997, is a tribute to Notorious B.I.G., who was murdered in 1997. Sampling "Every Breath You Take" by The Police, the track became a worldwide hit, topping the charts in several countries. The song remains a 90s classic. The music video is directed by Hype Williams. Writer(s) : Sting Publisher(s) : Songs Of Universal Inc Featured on the 1997 album No Way Out
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ABOUT BOY BANDS RETRORepertoiresBoy Bands often mix R&B elements with catchy pop melodies, creating a sound that evolves with current musical trends. This blend, enhanced by sophisticated harmonies and emotional ballads, helps them reach a broad audience and stay relevant in the music scene. Dance-pop and New Jack Swing are crucial to the musical identity of Boy Bands. These genres influence not just the music but also the complex, energetic choreography that’s become a signature move, boosting their popularity on dance floors and radio waves. Collaborations with other artists and cover versions of popular songs are essential strategies for Boy Bands. These tactics help them stay relevant, expand their audience, and capitalize on the success of original hits while adding their unique twist. Cultural ImpactBoy Bands have a huge influence on youth fashion and lifestyle. Their outfits, hairstyles, and accessories often become trends that fans eagerly adopt. In the 90s, New Kids on the Block were famous for their leather jackets, ripped jeans, and boots—a look widely embraced by teens. More recently, One Direction popularized a casual, preppy style with plaid shirts, V-neck sweaters, and skinny jeans, shaping 2010s fashion. Boy Bands frequently appear in movies, often in roles that highlight their popularity and cultural influence. Examples include “This Is Us” (2013), a documentary about One Direction, and “Camp Rock” (2008), a Disney film starring the Jonas Brothers. The same goes for TV series. “New Edition: The Movie” (2017) is a biographical mini-series about New Edition, detailing their rise to fame and personal struggles. “Big Time Rush” (2009-2013) follows four friends who become members of a fictional Boy Band, and “Making the Band” (2000-2009), a reality show produced by MTV, features aspiring musicians auditioning for groups like O-Town and Danity Kane. Plus, *NSYNC made a guest appearance on “The Simpsons” in the episode “New Kids on the Blecch” (2001). Some even argue that “A Hard Day’s Night” (1964) featuring The Beatles is one of the first and most influential Boy Band movies. Whether or not you believe that John, Paul & co can be called a Boy Band might depend on whether you’ve seen them doing some serious choreography. Fan CultureFan engagement and loyalty are key to the success of Boy Bands. Fans often form dedicated communities, organize events, and actively support their idols. Official fan clubs offer exclusive content, early ticket sales, and opportunities to meet band members. Teen magazines, TV shows, and advertisements are used to promote their albums, concerts, and merchandise. Shows like “Total Request Live” (TRL) on MTV used to be a big deal, and now social media platforms play a significant role. They allow bands to showcase new singles, share personal updates, and exclusive content, keeping the communication line open with fans. Finally, dedicated events like fan conventions and meetings are crucial. These gatherings allow fans to connect, participate in themed activities, and see their idols in person, strengthening the bond between the band and their supporters. |
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