What in the World Boy bands vs girl bands: Who makes better music?
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Dec 11, 2025 Mark Savage, the BBC music correspondent and pop music expert, dives into the age-old debate of boy bands versus girl bands. He explores how boy bands evolve teenage identity while girl groups often emphasize themes of sisterhood and belonging. Mark critiques the lyrical differences, praising the creativity in modern groups like Stray Kids, and highlights the scrutiny girl bands face online. Additionally, he discusses the commercial dynamics and marketing strategies behind these iconic groups and weighs in on Simon Cowell's new quest to discover the next big act.
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Early Pop Obsessions Shaped a Career
- Mark Savage recalls first loving The Monkees and later Duran Duran and the Spice Girls as formative pop obsessions.
- He describes buying The Monkees' greatest hits on cassette and how that set him on a lifelong pop path.
Manufactured Pop Prioritises Image
- Mark argues manufactured boy and girl bands often don't write or play instruments and are assembled for looks as much as vocals.
- He says in earlier eras songs were secondary to image and marketing drove band construction.
Boy Bands As Identity Mirrors
- Mark suggests boy bands help teenage girls explore identity and safe fantasies through stylised members and imagery.
- He frames boy bands as a mirror for fans to pick favourites and experiment with crushes.