The Greatest Boy Bands of All Time
Here's a list of the best boy bands of all time, with photos, ranked from best to worst by the community. Boy bands sometimes get a bad rap by music snobs who don't appreciate the pure joy that pop songs bring to millions of people around the world - especially pop songs sung in perfect harmony by boy bands. Music snobs aside, fans know that the top boy bands are incredibly talented and creative, and - in most cases - deserve all of the fame and attention that they get from fans. However, not all guy singing groups are created equal, so we must rank them. Ranging from some of the most popular K-pop boy groups to the hottest American and British boybands from every decade (especially the 80s and 90s), this list of the top boy bands in the world includes all musicians who have released recordings that have gotten distribution and is an up-to-date and current list that is ranked in order of best to worst. The top bands on the list are truly the greatest boy bands of all time, since the most famous boy band artists ever are listed, and the order is decided by actual fans of the best boy band music.
You can click on the boy band band names to see more information about that particular notable boy band group. If they're near the top of the best boy band artist list, though, then they should have at least some information available. All of the top boy band bands named on the list also have discographies on their pages if you click on the boy band names themselves.
The list includes all types boy bands from yesteryear to today. Click thumbs up for the artists you do like and down vote the artists you think are dumb. If you like New Kids on the Block or 'N Sync, then make your voice heard. All important, significant, and iconic names in boy band music history deserve your votes, so make sure to choose wisely.
The list includes all new boy bands, and if there are any missing on the list, you can always add them yourself. Just make sure that they aren't already on the list, and check your spelling, because this is already an accurate compilation of the best examples of boy bands, as well as a good place to start if you're asking yourself, or friends, exactly how to get into boy band music. No point in listening to them if they aren't actually good or even half-way decent boy band bands.
This list answers the questions "who are the best boy band bands of all time?" and "who is the greatest boy band musician ever?" If you know enough about the genre, please vote based on the quality of the band's music instead of just voting for the most popular boy band bands that you might've heard of, but not really listened to closely enough to cast an informed vote. Tweet this or Facebook it to make sure your friends weigh in too. For more, you can check out the best albums by boy bands.
- 1Adult contemporary music, Bubblegum pop, Pop music
Assembled in the early 90s, the Backstreet Boys have earned their place as one of the best boy bands to grace the music industry. Bursting onto the scene with their debut self-titled album in 1996, they quickly captivated fans worldwide with their remarkable vocal harmonies and infectious pop tunes. Their timeless hits, like "I Want It That Way" and "As Long as You Love Me," continue to evoke feelings of nostalgia and delight for generations of fans. The group's resilience and adaptability are awe-inspiring, as they have remained relevant even after decades in the spotlight.
- 2Hip hop music, Bubblegum pop, Pop music
Arguably the pioneers of the modern boy band phenomenon, New Kids on the Block dominated the airwaves in the late 80s and early 90s. Hailing from Boston, Massachusetts, this five-member group shook the music world with their wildly successful second album, "Hangin' Tough." Known for their catchy beats, smooth dance moves, and passionate fan base, NKOTB carved out a lasting legacy as a quintessential boy band, inspiring numerous other groups to follow in their footsteps. From their early blockbuster hits to today's reunion tours, they've proven that they've still got the right stuff.
- 3Bubblegum pop, Pop music, Teen pop
Few groups can compete with the cultural impact of *NSYNC, who dominated the music scene in the late 90s and early 2000s. Composed of five charismatic young men, their impeccable harmonies, sharp dance moves, and striking good looks caught the attention of fans around the globe. With unforgettable hits such as "Bye Bye Bye" and "Tearin' Up My Heart," they cemented their status as icons in the pop music world. Even though their time together was relatively short, *NSYNC's enduring legacy as captivating entertainers and chart-topping artists has solidified their place as one of the best boy bands ever.
- 4Pop rock
One Direction skyrocketed to stardom after their formation on the UK reality show The X Factor in 2010. Comprised of five talented individuals, the band quickly garnered attention with their debut single "What Makes You Beautiful." Despite an ever-changing pop landscape, 1D managed to remain on top, thanks to their dedicated fans ("Directioners") and their continuous evolution of sounds, styles, and talents. Even after the departure of Zayn Malik and their indefinite hiatus, the remaining members have continued to maintain their success as solo artists, proving that their influence as a boy band is everlasting.
- 5Hip hop music, Pop music, Contemporary R&B
Renowned for their smooth R&B sound and stunning vocal harmonies, Boyz II Men emerged in the early 90s and effortlessly captured the hearts of millions of fans. Their heartfelt ballads, such as "End of the Road" and "I'll Make Love to You," quickly climbed the charts and broke records for their extended stays at the top. The group's unmatched ability to evoke deep emotions through their soulful melodies has made them a standout among boy bands and earned them a lasting place in music history. Despite lineup changes and the passage of time, Boyz II Men have remained an influential force in the industry, proving that their talent is truly timeless.
- 6Bubblegum pop, Motown Sound, Disco
Iconic and legendary, The Jackson 5 not only set the standard for boy bands but also reshaped the course of music history. With hits such as "ABC" and "I Want You Back," the group, which included future megastar Michael Jackson, won over audiences worldwide with their infectious energy, innovative performances, and undeniable talent. Bursting onto the scene in the late 1960s, they captured the attention of both critics and fans alike, and their influence on pop and R&B music has endured for decades. As one of the most groundbreaking and enduring boy bands in history, The Jackson 5's contributions to the music industry will never fade from memory.
