Were the Boy Bands of the 1980s-2000s a Good Thing for Popular Music or Not?

Boy bands have been a significant part of popular music for several decades, often sparking intense debates about their worth and impact. This article delves into the question, 'were the boy bands of the 1980s-2000s a good thing for popular music?'

The Early Years: 1970s and Osmonds

Before the 1980s, the concept of boy bands had a bit of a cheek. The Osmonds, a household name in the 1970s, were called 'teen pop vocal groups.' However, this lighthearted term was not well-received by the rock music world. They were often joked about, and by 1979, the Osmonds and other teen pop acts like them had lost their popularity.

New Kids on the Block: A Revival of Boy Bands

The 1988 arrival of New Kids on the Block (NKOTB) marked a new era for boy bands. While there were vocal soul groups like New Edition in the 1980s, they were not typically categorized as boy bands. NKOTB brought a modern 80s/early 90s look that captivated audiences, proving that boy bands could indeed make a significant impact in the music industry.

The Case for Boy Bands in Popular Music

Many argue that boy bands have been a positive influence on popular music because they offer a diverse range of choices for listeners. Since not everyone can 'all like the same music,' boy bands provide a platform for those who enjoy a more fun and upbeat genre. While these bands don’t strive to be deep or introspective like The Doors, U2, or Nirvana, their primary goal is to entertain and provide enjoyment for their fans.

Boy bands cater to a younger audience, typically teens and young adults. This age group tends to appreciate the themes and lyrics that boy bands often sing about. It’s important to recognize that while some may be capable of appreciating more complex forms of music, many teens simply want fun and relatable content in their music. There’s nothing wrong with that, and it's a natural part of growing up.

Some critics argue that if a boy band's music resonates with you and makes you say, 'Oh Brother!' you might be too old for it. But that's a matter of personal preference. If these songs bring joy and nostalgia to you, why should that be dismissed as irrelevant?

Conclusion

Whether boy bands are a 'good thing' for popular music largely depends on one's perspective. While they may not offer the profound depth of other genres, boy bands have certainly brought joy, fun, and entertainment to a younger generation. So, next time you hear a boy band song and find yourself humming along, perhaps you can appreciate the positive impact they've had on popular music.