The 2000s were a golden age for boy bands, with groups like Backstreet Boys, NSYNC, and Boyz II Men dominating the pop charts. However, this era also saw the emergence of several new and exciting boy bands, each with their own unique sound and style.
From the UK’s Take That to Korea’s Super Junior, the 2000s saw the rise of boy bands from all corners of the globe. These groups not only captivated audiences with their catchy pop hooks and energetic live performances, but also became cultural phenomena, inspiring fashion trends, merchandising, and even their own reality shows.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the top 20 boy bands of the 2000s, exploring their music, their impact, and their enduring legacy in the world of pop music.
1. Backstreet Boys
The Backstreet Boys are a popular American boy band that rose to fame in the late 1990s and early 2000s. The group was formed in Orlando, Florida, in 1993 and consists of five members: AJ McLean, Howie Dorough, Nick Carter, Kevin Richardson, and Brian Littrell.
Known for their catchy pop hooks, impressive vocal harmonies, and synchronized dance routines, the Backstreet Boys became a sensation in the United States and around the world with their debut album, “Backstreet Boys” (1996). The album featured hit singles like “Quit Playing Games (With My Heart),” “Everybody (Backstreet’s Back),” and “As Long As You Love Me,” which quickly became radio staples and garnered the group a dedicated fanbase.
Throughout their career, the Backstreet Boys have released numerous successful albums, including “Millennium” (1999) and “Black & Blue” (2000), which further solidified their status as one of the biggest boy bands of all time. The group has sold over 130 million records worldwide, making them one of the best-selling music artists in history.
Despite a brief hiatus in the mid-2000s, the Backstreet Boys have continued to release new music and tour extensively, delighting fans with their energetic live performances and upbeat pop anthems. Their enduring popularity is a testament to their talent, hard work, and lasting impact on the music industry.
2. NSYNC
NSYNC is an American boy band that gained immense popularity in the late 1990s and early 2000s. The group was formed in Orlando, Florida, in 1995 and consisted of five members: Justin Timberlake, JC Chasez, Chris Kirkpatrick, Joey Fatone, and Lance Bass.
NSYNC’s music is characterized by their pop and R&B-infused sound, complex vocal harmonies, and high-energy dance routines. Their debut album, “NSYNC” (1997), spawned hit singles like “I Want You Back,” “Tearin’ Up My Heart,” and “Here We Go,” which quickly established the group as a force to be reckoned with in the music industry.
The band’s sophomore album, “No Strings Attached” (2000), was a massive success, debuting at number one on the Billboard 200 chart and setting records for the highest first-week album sales in history. The album featured the hit singles “Bye Bye Bye” and “It’s Gonna Be Me,” which became anthems for a generation of young music fans.
NSYNC went on to release two more albums, “Celebrity” (2001) and “The Essential NSYNC” (2014), before going on an indefinite hiatus in 2002. Despite their relatively short career, the group’s impact on the music industry is undeniable, and they are widely regarded as one of the most successful and influential boy bands of all time. Their catchy pop anthems, dynamic performances, and enduring popularity have made them a beloved part of the cultural landscape for decades to come.
3. 98 Degrees
98 Degrees is an American boy band that emerged in the late 1990s and gained popularity for their harmonized vocals and heartfelt ballads. The group was formed in Los Angeles in 1996 and originally consisted of four members: Nick Lachey, Drew Lachey, Jeff Timmons, and Justin Jeffre.
The band’s music is characterized by their pop and R&B influences, as well as their ability to blend together their individual voices to create rich harmonies. Their self-titled debut album, “98 Degrees” (1997), featured the hit singles “Invisible Man” and “Because of You,” which quickly gained traction on the radio and helped establish the group as a major player in the music industry.
98 Degrees’ sophomore album, “98 Degrees and Rising” (1998), was an even bigger success, thanks to the hit singles “The Hardest Thing” and “I Do (Cherish You).” The album reached number two on the Billboard 200 chart and cemented the group’s status as one of the most popular boy bands of the late 1990s.
Despite going on hiatus in 2002, the group has reunited several times over the years, releasing new music and going on tour to the delight of their dedicated fanbase. Their catchy pop tunes and soulful ballads have stood the test of time and continue to be beloved by music fans of all ages.
4. B2K
B2K, short for “Boys of the New Millennium,” was an American boy band that rose to fame in the early 2000s. The group was formed in Los Angeles in 1998 and consisted of four members: Omarion, J-Boog, Raz-B, and Lil Fizz.
B2K’s music was characterized by their blend of pop, R&B, and hip-hop, as well as their slick dance moves and smooth vocals. Their self-titled debut album, “B2K” (2002), featured the hit singles “Uh Huh” and “Gots Ta Be,” which helped establish the group as a rising force in the music industry.
The group’s sophomore album, “Pandemonium!” (2002), was an even bigger success, thanks to the hit singles “Bump, Bump, Bump” and “Girlfriend.” The album debuted at number ten on the Billboard 200 chart and quickly went platinum, cementing B2K’s status as one of the hottest boy bands of the early 2000s.
Despite their success, the group disbanded in 2004, but their influence on the music industry lives on. B2K’s catchy pop hooks, sultry R&B ballads, and smooth choreography continue to inspire a new generation of music artists, and their dedicated fanbase remains loyal to this day.
5. Jonas Brothers
The Jonas Brothers are an American pop rock band that gained popularity in the late 2000s and early 2010s. The band was formed in New Jersey in 2005 and consists of three brothers: Kevin Jonas, Joe Jonas, and Nick Jonas.
The Jonas Brothers’ music is characterized by their infectious pop hooks, catchy melodies, and upbeat energy. Their self-titled second album, “Jonas Brothers” (2007), featured hit singles like “S.O.S.” and “Hold On,” which quickly gained traction on the radio and helped establish the group as a major player in the music industry.
The band’s third album, “A Little Bit Longer” (2008), was an even bigger success, debuting at number one on the Billboard 200 chart and featuring the hit single “Burnin’ Up.” The album showcased the band’s maturing sound and cemented their status as one of the most popular boy bands of the late 2000s.
After a hiatus in 2013, the Jonas Brothers made a comeback in 2019 with their fifth studio album, “Happiness Begins,” which debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart. The album featured hit singles like “Sucker” and “Cool,” and showcased the band’s continued growth and evolution as artists.
The Jonas Brothers’ catchy pop anthems, dynamic live performances, and enduring popularity have made them a beloved part of the cultural landscape for over a decade, and their music continues to resonate with fans around the world.
6. Jagged Edge
Jagged Edge is an American R&B quartet that emerged in the late 1990s and gained popularity for their smooth harmonies and soulful ballads. The group was formed in Atlanta in 1995 and originally consisted of four members: Brandon Casey, Brian Casey, Kyle Norman, and Richard Wingo.
The band’s music is characterized by their blend of traditional R&B and contemporary hip-hop, as well as their ability to harmonize their voices to create a rich, layered sound. Their self-titled debut album, “Jagged Edge” (1997), featured the hit singles “I Gotta Be” and “The Way That You Talk,” which quickly gained traction on the radio and helped establish the group as a rising force in the music industry.
Jagged Edge’s sophomore album, “J.E. Heartbreak” (2000), was an even bigger success, thanks to the hit singles “Let’s Get Married” and “Promise.” The album reached number eight on the Billboard 200 chart and cemented the group’s status as one of the most popular R&B groups of the early 2000s.
Despite lineup changes over the years, Jagged Edge continues to make music and tour, delighting their dedicated fanbase with their smooth vocals and heartfelt lyrics. Their signature blend of classic R&B and modern hip-hop continues to inspire a new generation of music artists and keeps them relevant in the ever-changing music industry.
7. O-Town
O-Town is an American boy band that gained popularity in the early 2000s with their catchy pop hooks and slick dance moves. The group was formed in Orlando, Florida in 2000 and consists of five members: Erik-Michael Estrada, Trevor Penick, Jacob Underwood, Dan Miller, and Ashley Parker Angel.
The band’s music is characterized by their upbeat pop sound and their catchy, sing-along choruses. Their self-titled debut album, “O-Town” (2001), featured the hit singles “Liquid Dreams” and “All or Nothing,” which quickly gained traction on the radio and helped establish the group as a major player in the music industry.
O-Town’s sophomore album, “O2” (2002), featured the hit single “These Are the Days” and showcased the group’s maturing sound and evolution as artists. Despite their success, the group disbanded in 2003, but their influence on the music industry lives on.
In 2014, O-Town reunited and released their fourth studio album, “Lines & Circles,” which featured the hit single “Skydive” and showcased the band’s continued growth and evolution as artists. Today, O-Town continues to tour and make music, delighting their dedicated fanbase with their infectious pop sound and high-energy live performances.
8. LFO
LFO, which stands for Lyte Funky Ones, was an American boy band that emerged in the late 1990s and gained popularity for their upbeat pop tracks and catchy hooks. The group was formed in Boston in 1995 and originally consisted of three members: Rich Cronin, Brad Fischetti, and Devin Lima.
The band’s music is characterized by their blend of pop, hip-hop, and R&B, as well as their ability to harmonize their voices to create a fun, upbeat sound. Their self-titled debut album, “LFO” (1999), featured the hit singles “Summer Girls” and “Girl on TV,” which quickly gained traction on the radio and helped establish the group as a rising force in the music industry.
LFO’s sophomore album, “Life Is Good” (2001), featured the hit single “Every Other Time” and showcased the group’s maturing sound and evolution as artists. Despite their success, the group disbanded in 2002, but their influence on the music industry lives on.
In 2010, LFO reunited for a benefit concert and continued to make music until Rich Cronin’s death in 2010. Today, LFO’s legacy lives on through their infectious pop anthems, which continue to inspire a new generation of music artists and delight their dedicated fanbase.
9. 112
112 is an American R&B quartet that emerged in the late 1990s and gained popularity for their smooth harmonies and soulful ballads. The group was formed in Atlanta, Georgia in 1993 and originally consisted of four members: Quinnes “Q” Parker, Daron Jones, Michael Marcel Keith, and Marvin “Slim” Scandrick.
The band’s music is characterized by their blend of traditional R&B and contemporary hip-hop, as well as their ability to harmonize their voices to create a rich, layered sound. Their self-titled debut album, “112” (1996), featured the hit singles “Only You” and “Cupid,” which quickly gained traction on the radio and helped establish the group as a rising force in the music industry.
112’s sophomore album, “Room 112” (1998), was an even bigger success, thanks to the hit singles “Love Me” and “Anywhere.” The album reached number four on the Billboard 200 chart and cemented the group’s status as one of the most popular R&B groups of the late 1990s and early 2000s.
Despite lineup changes over the years, 112 continues to make music and tour, delighting their dedicated fanbase with their smooth vocals and heartfelt lyrics. Their signature blend of classic R&B and modern hip-hop continues to inspire a new generation of music artists and keeps them relevant in the ever-changing music industry.
10. Westlife
Westlife is an Irish boy band that rose to fame in the late 1990s and early 2000s, known for their harmonious vocals, romantic ballads and catchy pop tunes. The group was formed in Dublin, Ireland in 1998 and originally consisted of five members: Shane Filan, Kian Egan, Mark Feehily, Nicky Byrne, and Brian McFadden.
The band’s music is characterized by their smooth vocals and emotive ballads, which quickly won over fans around the world. Their self-titled debut album, “Westlife” (1999), featured the hit singles “Swear It Again” and “If I Let You Go,” which quickly gained traction on the radio and helped establish the group as a major player in the music industry.
Westlife’s sophomore album, “Coast to Coast” (2000), was an even bigger success, thanks to the hit singles “My Love” and “Uptown Girl.” The album reached number one on the UK Albums Chart and cemented the group’s status as one of the most popular boy bands of the late 1990s and early 2000s.
Despite lineup changes over the years, Westlife continues to make music and tour, delighting their dedicated fanbase with their emotive ballads and upbeat pop tracks. Their signature blend of classic pop and modern production continues to inspire a new generation of music artists and keeps them relevant in the ever-changing music industry.
11. SoulDecision
SoulDecision is a Canadian pop group that emerged in the late 1990s and gained popularity for their blend of pop, R&B, and electronic music. The group was formed in Vancouver, British Columbia in 1993 and originally consisted of three members: Trevor Guthrie, Ken Lewko, and David Bowman.
The band’s music is characterized by their upbeat pop tracks and danceable beats, as well as their smooth harmonies and catchy hooks. Their self-titled debut album, “SoulDecision” (1999), featured the hit singles “Faded” and “Ooh It’s Kinda Crazy,” which quickly gained traction on the radio and helped establish the group as a rising force in the Canadian music industry.
SoulDecision’s sophomore album, “No One Does It Better” (2000), was an even bigger success, thanks to the hit singles “Gravity” and “Cadillac Dress,” which showcased the group’s evolving sound and maturing songwriting. The album reached number six on the Canadian Albums Chart and cemented the group’s status as one of the most popular pop groups of the late 1990s and early 2000s.
Despite disbanding in 2005, SoulDecision’s music continues to inspire a new generation of music artists and delight their dedicated fanbase. Their infectious pop anthems and unique blend of genres continue to make them a beloved and influential force in Canadian music.
12. BBMak
BBMak is a British pop/rock trio that emerged in the late 1990s and gained popularity for their distinctive harmonies, catchy pop melodies, and guitar-driven sound. The group was formed in Liverpool, England in 1997 and originally consisted of three members: Mark Barry, Christian Burns, and Stephen McNally.
The band’s music is characterized by their blend of pop and rock, which sets them apart from many of their contemporaries. Their self-titled debut album, “Sooner or Later” (2000), featured the hit singles “Back Here” and “Still on Your Side,” which quickly gained traction on the radio and helped establish the group as a rising force in the music industry.
BBMak’s sophomore album, “Into Your Head” (2002), was an even bigger success, thanks to the hit singles “Out of My Heart (Into Your Head)” and “Staring Into Space.” The album reached number 25 on the US Billboard 200 chart and cemented the group’s status as one of the most popular pop/rock acts of the early 2000s.
Despite disbanding in 2003, BBMak’s music continues to inspire a new generation of music artists and delight their dedicated fanbase. Their unique blend of pop and rock, coupled with their soaring harmonies and heartfelt lyrics, continues to make them a beloved and influential force in British and American music.
13. Savage Garden
Savage Garden is an Australian pop duo that rose to fame in the late 1990s for their heartfelt ballads and catchy pop tunes. The duo was formed in Brisbane, Australia in 1993 and consisted of two members: Darren Hayes and Daniel Jones.
The band’s music is characterized by their emotive ballads and upbeat pop tracks, which quickly won over fans around the world. Their self-titled debut album, “Savage Garden” (1997), featured the hit singles “I Want You” and “Truly Madly Deeply,” which became international hits and helped establish the duo as a major player in the music industry.
Savage Garden’s sophomore album, “Affirmation” (1999), was an even bigger success, thanks to the hit singles “I Knew I Loved You” and “Crash and Burn.” The album reached number one on the Australian Albums Chart and cemented the duo’s status as one of the most popular pop acts of the late 1990s and early 2000s.
Despite disbanding in 2001, Savage Garden’s music continues to inspire a new generation of music artists and delight their dedicated fanbase. Their signature blend of emotive ballads and upbeat pop tracks, coupled with their catchy hooks and soaring vocals, continues to make them a beloved and influential force in Australian and international music.
14. LMNT
LMNT (pronounced “Element”) is an American boy band that emerged in the early 2000s and gained popularity for their high-energy pop tracks and catchy hooks. The group was formed in Orlando, Florida in 2000 and originally consisted of five members: Bryan Chan, Jonas Persch, Mike Miller, David Rolfe, and Matthew Morrison (who would later become a famous actor on Broadway and television).
The band’s music is characterized by their upbeat pop tracks and danceable beats, as well as their smooth harmonies and catchy hooks. Their self-titled debut album, “LMNT” (2001), featured the hit singles “Hey Juliet” and “Girl Crazy,” which quickly gained traction on the radio and helped establish the group as a rising force in the music industry.
Despite a promising start, LMNT struggled to gain the same level of success as other boy bands of the era, and eventually disbanded in 2004. However, their music continues to inspire a new generation of music artists and delight their dedicated fanbase. Their infectious pop anthems and unique blend of genres continue to make them a beloved and influential force in the boy band world, and a nostalgic reminder of the early 2000s pop scene.
15. Boyz II Men
Boyz II Men is an American R&B vocal group that emerged in the early 1990s and gained popularity for their smooth harmonies, emotional ballads, and soulful pop tracks. The group was formed in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in 1988 and originally consisted of four members: Nathan Morris, Shawn Stockman, Wanya Morris, and Michael McCary.
The band’s music is characterized by their soulful R&B sound, which blends elements of pop, doo-wop, and gospel music. Their debut album, “Cooleyhighharmony” (1991), featured the hit singles “Motownphilly” and “It’s So Hard to Say Goodbye to Yesterday,” which quickly gained traction on the radio and helped establish the group as a rising force in the music industry.
Boyz II Men’s sophomore album, “II” (1994), was an even bigger success, thanks to the hit singles “I’ll Make Love to You” and “On Bended Knee.” The album reached number one on the US Billboard 200 chart and cemented the group’s status as one of the most popular R&B acts of the 1990s.
Despite lineup changes over the years, Boyz II Men’s music continues to inspire a new generation of music artists and delight their dedicated fanbase. Their signature blend of soulful R&B, coupled with their soaring harmonies and heartfelt lyrics, continues to make them a beloved and influential force in American music.
16. SHINee
SHINee is a South Korean boy band that emerged in the late 2000s and gained popularity for their catchy pop tracks, intricate dance routines, and dynamic stage performances. The group was formed in Seoul in 2008 by SM Entertainment and originally consisted of five members: Onew, Jonghyun, Key, Minho, and Taemin.
The band’s music is characterized by their upbeat, infectious pop sound, which blends elements of electronic dance music, R&B, and hip-hop. Their debut single, “Replay” (2008), quickly gained traction in South Korea and helped establish the group as a rising force in the K-pop industry.
Over the years, SHINee has continued to evolve and experiment with their sound, incorporating new genres and styles into their music. They have also become known for their stunning music videos, intricate choreography, and daring fashion sense, all of which have helped them amass a loyal and passionate fanbase around the world.
Despite the tragic passing of member Jonghyun in 2017, SHINee continues to create music and perform together as a four-member group. Their music remains a testament to their talent and dedication, as well as their ability to constantly push the boundaries of the K-pop genre.
17. BIGBANG
BIGBANG is a South Korean boy band that emerged in the mid-2000s and became one of the most influential and successful acts in the K-pop industry. The group was formed in Seoul in 2006 by YG Entertainment and originally consisted of five members: G-Dragon, T.O.P, Taeyang, Daesung, and Seungri.
The band’s music is characterized by their eclectic sound, which blends elements of hip-hop, R&B, electronic dance music, and rock. Their music videos and live performances are known for their high energy and bold visuals, featuring intricate dance routines, elaborate costumes, and dramatic pyrotechnics.
BIGBANG’s breakthrough came in 2007 with their single “Lies,” which became a massive hit in South Korea and propelled the group to mainstream success. They followed up with a string of successful singles, including “Haru Haru,” “Tonight,” and “Fantastic Baby,” which helped establish them as one of the most popular and innovative acts in the K-pop industry.
Despite a hiatus in 2019, BIGBANG’s music and impact on the K-pop industry continue to be felt around the world. They have amassed a massive and dedicated fanbase, known as VIPs, who are drawn to their catchy tunes, dynamic performances, and charismatic personalities.
18. Busted
Busted is an English pop rock band that emerged in the early 2000s and became known for their catchy pop-punk sound and tongue-in-cheek lyrics. The group was formed in London in 2000 by James Bourne and Matt Willis, who were later joined by Charlie Simpson.
The band’s music is characterized by their infectious hooks, upbeat guitar riffs, and playful, often humorous lyrics. Their debut single, “What I Go to School For” (2002), quickly became a hit in the UK and helped establish the band as a rising force in the pop rock scene.
Over the years, Busted continued to evolve and experiment with their sound, incorporating new genres and styles into their music. They released a string of successful albums, including their self-titled debut (2002) and their third album, “Night Driver” (2016), which saw the band exploring a more electronic sound.
Although the band disbanded in 2005, they reformed in 2015 and have since continued to tour and release new music, much to the delight of their dedicated fanbase. Busted’s music remains a testament to their talent and irreverent spirit, as well as their ability to bridge the gap between punk and pop with ease.
19. The Wanted
The Wanted is an English-Irish boy band that emerged in the late 2000s and became known for their catchy pop anthems and energetic live performances. The group was formed in 2009 and originally consisted of five members: Max George, Siva Kaneswaran, Jay McGuiness, Tom Parker, and Nathan Sykes.
The band’s music is characterized by their infectious hooks, upbeat dance-pop sound, and anthemic choruses. Their debut single, “All Time Low” (2010), became a massive hit in the UK and helped establish the band as a rising force in the pop music scene.
Over the years, The Wanted continued to evolve and experiment with their sound, incorporating new genres and styles into their music. They released a string of successful albums, including “Battleground” (2011) and “Word of Mouth” (2013), which showcased the band’s versatility and talent.
Although the band went on hiatus in 2014, their music continues to be celebrated by their dedicated fanbase around the world. The Wanted’s legacy is a testament to their ability to create catchy pop anthems that resonate with audiences of all ages, as well as their dynamic live performances and enduring appeal.
20. Super Junior
Super Junior, also known as SJ or SuJu, is a South Korean boy band that was formed in 2005 by SM Entertainment. The group debuted with 12 members, including Leeteuk, Heechul, Han Geng, Yesung, Kangin, Shindong, Sungmin, Eunhyuk, Siwon, Donghae, Ryeowook, and Kibum. Since then, the group has gone through a few lineup changes, with some members leaving and new ones joining.
Super Junior is known for their lively and energetic performances, incorporating various genres like pop, R&B, and dance into their music. They have released numerous hits over the years, including “Sorry, Sorry,” “Mr. Simple,” and “Bonamana,” which have earned them a massive following around the world.
The group has also gained recognition for their variety show appearances, where they showcase their humorous and entertaining personalities. Super Junior’s music and performances have earned them numerous accolades and awards, including multiple Mnet Asian Music Awards and Golden Disc Awards.
Super Junior’s legacy as one of the most successful K-pop groups of all time is a testament to their talent, hard work, and enduring popularity among fans.
Simon Robinson is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
