Your Favorite Boy Bands Retro Songs on RadioVideo.Music

  • From The Monkees to BTS: How to Spot a Boy Band. It’s all about young men with charming voices, often brought together by producers or managers. They can sing and dance in sync, usually to the delighted screams of teenage fans.
  • On RadioVideo.Music, 503 songs – from the 80s to the 2010s – are tagged “Boy Band.” Among them, 4 have over one billion views on YouTube, and 15 have over five hundred millions.
  • Overall, the 5 most popular tracks are four songs by One Direction : “What Makes You Beautiful, “Drag Me Down,” “Story Of My Life” and “Night Changes” plus Backstreet Boys‘ “I Want It That Way.”
  • The genre is more then ever in vogue today. We have selected the 20 “Boy Band” retro songs that have seen the highest engagement growth over the last 6 months.
  • Here they are below in descending order of growth.

Last updated on Jun 2,2025, updated monthly.

1 . All_4_One - I Swear

The group All-4-One, composed of Jamie Jones, Delious Kennedy, Alfred Nevarez, and Tony Borowiak, is known for their vocal harmonies. Their track "I Swear," produced by David Foster and released in 1994, is a pop ballad that achieved global success and won a Grammy Award. Covered in several films and TV shows, "I Swear" was hilariously parodied in the 2013 animated comedy "Despicable Me 2."

The music video is directed by Marcus Nispel.

The Singing Minions

Minions - YMCA

The Minions perform their version of the Village People's "YMCA" during Gru and Lucy's wedding in "Despicable Me 2".

Minions - Banana

Featured in the teaser trailer for "Despicable Me 2", this song is a parody of "Barbara Ann" where Minions sing about bananas.

Minions - I Swear (Underwear)

The Minions sing a humorous version of "I Swear" by All-4-One, substituting "underwear" in the lyrics, in "Despicable Me 2".

Minions - Minions Take the Stage

In "Despicable Me 3", the Minions perform various songs while in prison, showcasing their comedic and musical talents.

Writer(s) : Frank Joseph Myers, Gary B Baker Publisher(s) : Wc Music Corp, Mpca Lehsem Music, Publishing Twos Music
Genres : boy band, contemporary r&b, r&b

Featured on the 1994 album All-4-One

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

30.02% / -0.45%

2 . Bell Biv DeVoe - Poison

"Poison," released in 1990, is the debut single from Bell Biv DeVoe, members of New Edition. This iconic track popularized the "new jack swing" genre, blending R&B and hip-hop. Produced by Dr. Freeze, "Poison" is known for its catchy beat and lyrics about toxic relationships - "Never trust a big butt and smile," the chorus advises. The song peaked at number three on the Billboard Hot 100 and remains a 90s classic. Bell Biv DeVoe continued to influence music with hits like "Do Me!" and memorable reunion tour performances.

The music video is directed by Lionel C. Martin.

Writer(s) : Christopher Mikel Bivins Publisher(s) : Tunecore Global
Genres : Pop, R&B, Hip Hop,boy band, contemporary r&b, new jack swing, r&b, urban contemporary

Featured on the 1990 album Poison

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

20.06% / 0.26%

3 . A1 - Like A Rose

This tender 2000 ballad uses the metaphor of a rose to express gratitude and vulnerability. Its harmonies and lyrical sincerity highlight themes of love and appreciation, resonating as a touching tribute to personal connections.


Genres : boy_band

Featured on the 1999 album Here We Come

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

16.75% / -0.70%

4 . East 17 - Around The World

Using dance-pop and R&B elements typical of the group's style, "Around The World" by East 17, released in 1994, stands out with its lyrics about travel and exploration. It topped the UK charts and is often played at concerts for its catchy beat and distinctive vocal harmonies.

The music video is directed by Katie Bell.

Writer(s) : Matthew Rowbottom, Anthony Micha El Mortimer, Biff, Brian Lee Harvey Publisher(s) : Porky Publishing, Concord Sounds
Genres : Pop,boy band, europop

Featured on the 1994 album Steam

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

16.64% / -0.72%

5 . All_4_One - I Can Love You Like That

The R&B ballad "I Can Love You Like That" by All-4-One, released in 1995, is a cover of the original song by John Michael Montgomery. Known for their silky harmonies, the group transforms this originally country song into an international hit, thanks to David Foster's production.

The music video is directed by Marcus Nispel.

Writer(s) : Jennifer Kimball, Marybeth Derry, Steve Diamond Publisher(s) : Blue Kingdom Music, Universal Music Corporation, Criterion Music Corp, Kobalt Music Services America Inc
Genres : Pop, R&B,boy band, contemporary r&b, r&b

Featured on the 1995 album And the Music Speaks

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

16.56% / 0.81%

6 . Ready For The World - Love You Down

Co-produced with Gary Spaniola, "Love You Down" by American group Ready For The World, released in 1986, is a sensual R&B ballad. Formed in the early 80s, the group combines funk and soul elements here. The song remains a classic of the 80s, covered by several artists including INOJ and Meshell Ndegéocello, and sampled by artists like Lil Wayne and Chris Brown.

The music video is directed by Duncan Gibbins.

Writer(s) : Melvin C Riley Publisher(s) : Ready Ready Music
Genres : Pop, R&B,boy band, contemporary r&b, minneapolis sound, new jack swing,

Featured on the 1986 album Long Time Coming

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

15.28% / 0.20%

7 . Let Loose - Crazy For You

Produced by Nicky Graham, "Crazy For You" by Let Loose came out in 1993. The British group, formed in 1988, saw notable success with this track, which remains their most iconic song. "Crazy For You" is often associated with 90s parties and appears on several compilations from that decade.

Writer(s) : Richard Joh N Wermerling Publisher(s) : Red Songs Ltd
Genres : Pop,boy band

Featured on the 1994 album Let Loose

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

13.24% / 0.00%

8 . Next - Wifey

"Wifey" by Next, released in 2000, is an R&B track celebrating love and fidelity. The group, consisting of R.L. Huggar, Terry Brown, and Raphael Brown, is known for their tight harmonies and romantic lyrics. The song quickly became a hit, topping the US charts and remaining a favorite among R&B fans.

The music video is directed by Jeff Richter.

Writer(s) : Keir Gist, Robert L Huggar, Edward Timothy Berkeley, Gabriel Jackson Publisher(s) : Divine Mill Music, Fingaz Goal Music, Uh Oh Entertainment Inc, Ensign Music Corporation
Genres : Pop, R&B, Hip Hop,boy band, contemporary r&b, minneapolis sound, new jack swing, r&b, urban contemporary

Featured on the 2000 album Welcome II Nextasy

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

14.92% / -0.35%

9 . No Mercy - Please Don't Go

"Please Don't Go" by German pop group No Mercy, released in 1997, is a cover of KC and the Sunshine Band's classic. Produced by Frank Farian, known for his work with Boney M and Milli Vanilli, the track, noted for its vocal harmonies and modern arrangement, was an international hit, reaching the top 10 in several countries.

The music video is directed by Hannes Rossacher.

Writer(s) : Franz Reuther, Martin Cintron III, Bischof Fallenstein Ter, Mary Susan Klopprogge Publisher(s) : Sony Atv Music Publishing Llc, Far Musikverlag Gmbh
Genres : Pop,boy band, eurodance

Featured on the 1996 album My Promise

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

14.51% / -0.24%

10 . East 17 - Stay Another Day

Released in 1994, "Stay Another Day" marks East 17’s unexpected shift into heartfelt balladry, diverging from their usual pop/hip-hop hybrid. Written by Tony Mortimer, the song conveys personal grief through lush orchestration and lyrics steeped in melancholy. Its bell chimes and frosty production cemented it as an accidental seasonal tune, dominating the UK charts at Christmas despite no mention of the holiday.

The music video is directed by Marcus Adams.

Writer(s) : Rob Kean, Anthony Micha El Mortimer, Dominic Hawken Publisher(s) : Unknown Publisher, Porky Publishing, Bandmodel Ltd
Genres : boy_band

Featured on the 1994 album Steam

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

14.28% / -1.78%

11 . East 17 - Deep

"Deep" by East 17, released in 1993, is an R&B ballad marked by introspective lyrics, spoken rap, and a gentle melody. Known for their varied influences, the group blends soul and pop elements here. It was their first hit to reach the top 5 in the UK and the only single to appear on Billboard's main chart, often associated with the boy band's heyday.

The music video is directed by Richard Heslop.

Writer(s) : Anthony Micha El Mortimer Publisher(s) : Porky Publishing
Genres : Pop,boy band, europop,

Featured on the 1993 album Walthamstow

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

13.88% / -0.44%

12 . NSYNC - Bye Bye Bye

NSYNC's "Bye Bye Bye," released on January 17, 2000, reflects both personal and professional separation. Written by Andreas Carlsson, while taking a driving test in Stockholm, and produced by Kristian Lundin and Jake Schulze, it narrates the emotional turbulence of ending a relationship, while subtly hinting at the group's split from manager Lou Pearlman and their RCA label. Initially intended for British group 5ive, the song peaks at #4 on the Billboard Hot 100.

The music video is directed by Wayne Isham.

Writer(s) : Andreas Carlsson, Jacob Ivar Tilson Schulze, Kristian Lundin Publisher(s) : Andreas Carlsson, Jacob Ivar Tilson Schulze, Kristian Lundin
Genres : Pop,boy band, dance pop, pop

Featured on the 2000 album No Strings Attached

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

13.67% / -0.68%

13 . Jonas Brothers - Play My Music

"Play My Music" by the Jonas Brothers is featured in the Disney Channel movie "Camp Rock" (2008), a story about a summer music camp, directed by Matthew Diamond and starring Demi Lovato and Joe Jonas. The song, capturing the enthusiasm and passion for music, quickly became popular among teenage fans and boosted the Jonas Brothers' fame.

Writer(s) : Mitch Allan, Kara E Dioguardi Publisher(s) : Wonderland Music Company Inc, Walt Disney Music Company
Genres : Pop,boy band, pop

Featured on the 2008 album Camp Rock

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

13.16% / 0.02%

14 . New Edition - Mr. Telephone Man

"Mr. Telephone Man," released in 1984, is one of New Edition's early hits, produced by Ray Parker Jr., known for "Ghostbusters." The song tells the story of a young man desperately trying to reach his girlfriend by phone but failing. The group, consisting of Ralph Tresvant, Bobby Brown, Ricky Bell, Michael Bivins, and Ronnie DeVoe, saw this track reach the top 20 on the pop charts and the top 10 on the R&B charts.

The music video is directed by Jay Dubin.

Writer(s) : Ray Erskine Parker Jr Publisher(s) : Raydiola Music
Genres : Pop, R&B, Hip Hop,boy band, contemporary r&b, new jack swing, r&b, urban contemporary

Featured on the 1984 album New Edition

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

12.40% / 0.42%

15 . BBMak - Back Here

"Back Here" by British group BBMak was released in 1999 and quickly became an international success. This pop-rock song is characterized by powerful vocal harmonies and a catchy chorus, telling the story of lost love and the desire to reunite.

The music video is directed by Dani Jacobs.

Writer(s) : Phil Thornalley, Mark Barry, Christian Anthony Burns, Stephen Patrick McNally Publisher(s) : Strongsongs Ltd, Bmg Music Publ Ltdfalse
Genres : Pop,boy band

Featured on the 2000 album Sooner or Later

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

11.95% / 0.06%

16 . One Direction - Night Changes

Through intimate storytelling and reflective lyrics, this 2014 ballad explores themes of growing up and embracing change. Accompanied by a whimsical video showcasing romantic misadventures, "Night Changes" offers a heartfelt ode to fleeting youth and life’s transformations.

The music video is directed by Ben Winston.

Writer(s) : Louis Tomlinson, John Ryan, Jamie Scott, Julian Collin Bunetta, Niall Horan, Liam Payne, Harry Styles, Zain Malik Publisher(s) : Hipgnosis Songs Fund Limited, Music Of Hipgnosis, Ppm Music Ltd, Bob Erotik Music, The Family Songbook, Emi Music Publishing Ltd, Bmg Platinum Songs Us
Genres : boy_band

Featured on the 2014 album Four

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

11.50% / -0.28%

17 . Another Level - Be Alone No More

"Be Alone No More" is a single by British group Another Level, released in 1998. Produced by Cutfather & Joe, the track reached number 6 on the UK charts. The 1999 remix features a collaboration with American rapper Jay Z.

Writer(s) : Ivan A Matias, Andrea Martin, Steven R Dubin Publisher(s) : Warner Chappell Music Ltd, Sailandra Publishing, Almo Music Corporation, One Ol Ghetto Ho, Crash 11 Songs
Genres : Pop, Hip Hop,boy band, east coast hip hop, gangster rap, hip hop, pop rap, rap

Featured on the 1998 album Another Level

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

11.16% / -0.21%

18 . A1 - Everytime

“Everytime” opens with a music box motif and breathy vocals that float somewhere between lullaby and lament, gradually shifting to a fuller soundscape without ever quite losing their fragility.

Set in E♭ major with a tempo of 110 bpm, the track functions as a quiet apology—an introspective plea after unintended emotional wreckage.

Its video sketches Spears as a haunted celebrity, swarmed by flashbulbs and drifting into a bathtub scene that sparked debates for its ambiguous brush with mortality.

Writer(s) : Peter Cunnah, Ben Adams, Christian Ingebrigtsen, Mark Read, Paul Marazzi Publisher(s) : Sony Atv Music Publishing Limited (Uk), Blue Raincoat Music Publishing Limitedfalse
Genres : boy_band

Featured on the 1998 album Here We Come

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

11.02% / -0.34%

19 . Soul For Real - Every Little Thing I Do

"Every Little Thing I Do" spins early '90s R&B formula into a smooth, radio-friendly confection marked by tightly layered harmonies and a well-placed Gap Band sample.

With writing credits from Heavy D and production by Poke & Tone, Soul for Real trades teenage innocence for gentle swagger, tracing romantic obsession with polished restraint.

Released in 1995, the track reaches No. 17 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earns a Gold certification from the RIAA.

Writer(s) : Poke (Us 1), Lover Tone, Heavy D, Terri E Robinson, Raymond James Calhoun Publisher(s) : Round Hill Tunes Uk, Wc Music Corp, Slam U Well, Twelve And Under Music, Emi April Music Inc, Evelle Music, Bmg Rights Management Uk Limited, Soul On Soul Inc
Genres : boy_band

Featured on the 1995 album Candy Rain

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

10.83% / 0.02%

20 . Mcfly - Shine A Light

“Shine a Light” pairs McFly’s polished pop rock with Taio Cruz’s sleek vocals, crafting a track that leans into glossy dance-pop with a pulse engineered for radio transit.

Penned in reverse—a beat-first experiment departing from the band’s usual process—the song takes a structural detour, favoring rhythm over introspection.

Released in 2010, it signals a stylistic pivot on their fifth album, “Above the Noise.”

The music video is directed by Phil Griffin.

Writer(s) : Jafan Inaya Davis, Roland Bartha Publisher(s) : Ny O Dae Music
Genres : boy_band

Featured on the 2010 album Above the Noise

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

10.69% / -0.99%

ABOUT BOY BANDS RETRO

Repertoires

Boy Bands often mix R&B elements with catchy pop melodies, creating a sound that evolves with current musical trends. This blend, enhanced by sophisticated harmonies and emotional ballads, helps them reach a broad audience and stay relevant in the music scene.

Dance-pop and New Jack Swing are crucial to the musical identity of Boy Bands. These genres influence not just the music but also the complex, energetic choreography that’s become a signature move, boosting their popularity on dance floors and radio waves.

Collaborations with other artists and cover versions of popular songs are essential strategies for Boy Bands. These tactics help them stay relevant, expand their audience, and capitalize on the success of original hits while adding their unique twist.

Cultural Impact

Boy Bands have a huge influence on youth fashion and lifestyle. Their outfits, hairstyles, and accessories often become trends that fans eagerly adopt. In the 90s, New Kids on the Block were famous for their leather jackets, ripped jeans, and boots—a look widely embraced by teens. More recently, One Direction popularized a casual, preppy style with plaid shirts, V-neck sweaters, and skinny jeans, shaping 2010s fashion.

Boy Bands frequently appear in movies, often in roles that highlight their popularity and cultural influence. Examples include “This Is Us” (2013), a documentary about One Direction, and “Camp Rock” (2008), a Disney film starring the Jonas Brothers.

The same goes for TV series. “New Edition: The Movie” (2017) is a biographical mini-series about New Edition, detailing their rise to fame and personal struggles. “Big Time Rush” (2009-2013) follows four friends who become members of a fictional Boy Band, and “Making the Band” (2000-2009), a reality show produced by MTV, features aspiring musicians auditioning for groups like O-Town and Danity Kane. Plus, *NSYNC made a guest appearance on “The Simpsons” in the episode “New Kids on the Blecch” (2001).

Some even argue that “A Hard Day’s Night” (1964) featuring The Beatles is one of the first and most influential Boy Band movies. Whether or not you believe that John, Paul & co can be called a Boy Band might depend on whether you’ve seen them doing some serious choreography.

Fan Culture

Fan engagement and loyalty are key to the success of Boy Bands. Fans often form dedicated communities, organize events, and actively support their idols. Official fan clubs offer exclusive content, early ticket sales, and opportunities to meet band members.

Teen magazines, TV shows, and advertisements are used to promote their albums, concerts, and merchandise. Shows like “Total Request Live” (TRL) on MTV used to be a big deal, and now social media platforms play a significant role. They allow bands to showcase new singles, share personal updates, and exclusive content, keeping the communication line open with fans.

Finally, dedicated events like fan conventions and meetings are crucial. These gatherings allow fans to connect, participate in themed activities, and see their idols in person, strengthening the bond between the band and their supporters.

ADJACENT GENRES

  • pop
  • talent show
  • contemporary r&b
  • r&b
  • dance pop
  • new jack swing
  • urban contemporary
  • europop
  • post-teen pop
  • new wave pop
  • soft rock
  • new romantic
  • sophisti-pop
  • hip hop
  • hip pop
  • rap