The music landscape of the 1980s was characterized by the emergence of glam metal and pop sensation stars. While various genres were popular at the time, glam metal and pop dominated the charts. As the decade turned into the ’90s, the focus shifted dramatically towards grunge music, which introduced a darker, more introspective sound. This evolution perhaps paved the way for the explosion of the boy band phenomenon that captured the music scene later in the decade. TV networks, record labels, and even celebrities were eager to capitalize on this trend, aiming to discover the next big boy band sensation.
Throughout the ’90s, audiences were introduced to titans of the boy band era, including the Backstreet Boys and Boyz II Men. However, many other talented groups have often remained in the shadows, remaining underrated yet worthy of recognition. Various factors contribute to why some bands never achieve mainstream success. This is a common theme across all music genres, including the realm of ’90s rock bands that have faded into obscurity. Some groups attempted to reinvent their sound or image in hopes of finding success, while others chose to disband rather than compromise their artistry. Nevertheless, these lesser-known groups have still made their unique contributions to the music scene.
10
Another Bad Creation (ABC)
Founded: 1988
Despite their youth, Another Bad Creation (ABC) found remarkable success soon after their formation. Their debut album, Coolin’ at the Playground Ya Know!, released in 1991, was a significant hit. Signed to the prestigious Motown label, their standout single “Iesha”earned them immediate recognition. Critics drew favorable comparisons between ABC and legendary groups like The Jackson 5 and New Edition.
Their debut album soared to number seven on the Billboard 200, while both “Iesha”and “Playground”ranked within the top ten on R&B and pop charts. A follow-up album launched in 1993 unfortunately did not capture the same acclaim, leading to the group’s disbandment. While their journey may have been short-lived, their debut album, which achieved platinum status in the U.S., remains their memorable legacy.
9
Dream Street
Founded: 1999
Dream Street was carefully crafted at the close of the 1990s, featuring a roster of talented youths aged 12 to 14. The assembly process proved to be challenging, especially with parental involvement in the group’s creative direction. Jesse McCartney, the most recognized member, transitioned from acting on All My Children to music stardom.
McCartney later emerged as a solo artist, achieving stardom with hits like “Beautiful Soul.”However, during their brief but impactful existence, Dream Street released a recording and starred in a film titled The Biggest Fan. Parental concerns regarding the young members’ exposure to adult situations abruptly ended their journey, though three members reunited in 2023, with McCartney making a special appearance, hinting at possible future endeavors.
8
Perfect Gentleman
Founded: 1988
Maurice Starr, renowned for his role in developing New Kids on the Block, struck again with Perfect Gentlemen. Following their debut in 1990, the group toured with NKOTB, effectively launching their careers. Their album Rated PG made an impressive entry into the Billboard 200’s Top 40, bolstered by their successful single “Ooh La La (I Can’t Get Over You).”
Unfortunately, after only a brief stint in the spotlight, the group opted to pursue solo careers. Their time was fleeting, but they surely left an impression, with “Ooh La La”becoming a nostalgic anthem for many fans.
7
BBMAK
Founded: 1996
BBMAK’s journey took a turning point in 1999 when they released their single “Back Here,”which rapidly catapulted them to fame, claiming the number one spot on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart. This success set the stage for their debut album Sooner or Later, which eventually went gold.
Even though they faced challenges and disbanded in 2003, the band made an exciting comeback 15 years later with their third studio album, Powerstation, released in 2019. The trio has since participated in nostalgic tours, reminding everyone of their iconic hits from the late ’90s.
6
E.Y.C.
Founded: 1992
E.Y.C. showcased relentless dedication to their craft. Comprising former backup dancers for New Kids on the Block, Trey Parker and Damon Butler, they gained recognition by winning the Best Roadshow Act award in 1993, further enhancing their credibility in the industry.
Their debut album, Express Yourself Clearly, released in 1993, opened international doors for the group. Despite this, they released their final project in 1999, a U.S.-exclusive album. E.Y.C. extensively promoted their work on popular platforms like Nickelodeon but ultimately struggled to achieve enduring success.
5
3T
Founded: 1994
As the offspring of Tito Jackson of the Jackson 5, Taj, Taryll, and TJ seemed poised for a prosperous career as 3T. With their legendary uncle Michael Jackson as their mentor and a home at MJJ Music, they released their debut album Brotherhood, featuring the international hit “Anything.”
However, due to a rift between Micheal and Sony, the group faced delays in releasing their subsequent album, which didn’t arrive until 2004. Despite these setbacks, 3T experienced a revival in 2015 with their album release and participation in the show The Jacksons: Next Generation.
4
LFO (Lyte Funkie Ones)
Founded: 1995
Before achieving fame, LFO gained initial attention with their remix of Yvonne Elliman’s “If I Can’t Have You.”After a lineup change, their self-titled album was released in 1999, which included the breakout hit “Summer Girls.”The track famously referenced Abercrombie & Fitch, boosting the band’s popularity.
While their album went platinum, leading to the gold certification of “Girl On TV,”the group released only one additional album in 2001. Tragedy struck when key members passed away, leaving Brad Fischetti as the sole survivor committed to preserving the band’s legacy through nostalgia tours.
3
Five (5ive)
Founded: 1997
Helmed by industry mogul Simon Cowell, Five rose to prominence with their eponymous album in 1998, featuring hit singles like “Slam Dunk Da Funk”and “Got the Feelin’.”Their infectious melodies captivated audiences not only in the UK but also internationally, enabling their swift rise to fame.
With their rapid ascent, they quickly began work on a follow-up album, further cementing their status in pop culture.
2
All-4-One
Founded: 1993
All-4-One recorded what many consider one of the most remarkable covers in music history with their rendition of John Michael Montgomery’s “I Swear,”featured on their 1994 debut album. The song earned them a Grammy Award in 1995, solidifying their place in musical history.
The group maintained strong momentum through the 1990s with several successful albums. However, internal disputes between labels hindered their progress. Despite these challenges, the band remains active, and their legacy of hits might be reignited with new covers in the future.
1
East 17 (E-17)
Formed: 1991
East 17’s story is marked by a series of significant breakups and reunions. Despite enduring multiple hiatuses, they successfully released six albums, often leaving fans to wonder how many more projects they may have created if they’d remained intact.
After their first hiatus in 1999, the band reunited in 2006, producing another album by 2013, and continued to navigate the industry while overseeing their legacy. With 18 top-20 singles and four top-10 albums to their name, East 17 were once considered one of the UK’s most popular boy bands, deserving recognition for their contributions to the music world.