Including pop, R&B, and idols, so-called boy bands and girl groups have a charm that’s different from bands, don’t they?
Because many of them have released massive hits that went down in music history, they might sometimes be shunned by rock fans.
But it’s also true that when you actually listen to the songs they performed, you often realize, “This sounds familiar,” and that in itself is pretty amazing.
So this time, we’re introducing Western music groups you should check out first—recommended even for beginners—spanning different eras.
You might even discover, “Oh, so they were the ones who sang that song!”
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- [Western Music] The appeal of male groups: from boy bands to R&B groups
- I Want to Be Healed from the Heart: Recommended Western Ballads Sung by Female Vocalists
- Cute recommended Western music bands
- A collection of cool songs that sound great when sung by women, originally male songs
- The 1970s were the golden age of Western rock! Recommended classics and hit songs
- [For Beginners] A Roundup of Classic Popular Soul/Funk Bands
- A popular song sung by a male Western music group
- Summary of representative Western funk artists and groups
- Summary of Western pop music: A comprehensive introduction to famous pop songs from overseas.
- Popular female Western music artists in Japan. Recommended famous overseas divas and singers.
- Recommendations for Western All-Female Bands—from Legendary Groups to Promising Newcomers
[For Beginners of Western Music] Recommended Western Music Groups: Popular Groups Summary (1–10)
What Makes You BeautifulOne Direction
One Direction is a band from the UK and Ireland that captivated the world.
Formed in 2010 after their performances on The X Factor, they took the music scene by storm over the following years.
In particular, their 2012 song Live While We’re Young was used as the theme song for the Japanese TV show Mezamashi Doyoubi, winning the hearts of many fans in Japan.
Its lyrics, celebrating youthful freedom, resonated especially with younger generations, and their songs are still loved by many today.
While the members are now thriving as solo artists, if you discovered them through their solo work, be sure to check out One Direction’s music as well.
End Of The RoadBoyz II Men
Boyz II Men are pioneers of the American music scene, known for their captivating ballads and harmonies sweet as honey.
With “End of the Road,” released in 1992, they claimed the No.
1 spot on the U.
S.
charts for an impressive 13 consecutive weeks.
That record stood until later that year, when Whitney Houston’s “I Will Always Love You” surpassed it.
The song’s a cappella ending stirs deep emotion in listeners, no matter the era.
Even newcomers to Western music can appreciate the greatness of music by listening to their songs.
Their music truly proves the beauty of melodies and choral work that so many people love.
I Want It That WayBackstreet Boys
Known for their pop sound and soothing harmonies, the Backstreet Boys are artists beloved across generations.
Since their 1993 debut, they have continued to captivate fans around the world.
For example, “I Want It That Way” became a global hit upon its 1999 release.
Its moving melody and compelling vocals truly capture listeners’ hearts.
Their appeal goes beyond vocal ability: despite their diverse catalog, every song features a memorable, catchy melody.
They’re enjoyable not only for newcomers to Western pop but also for fans of various genres.
Interesting, right? Take your time and give their music a careful listen.
Say My NameDestiny’s Child
Destiny’s Child can be called a symbol of empowerment that has left its mark on the music world.
From the 1990s into the 2000s, their powerful and beautiful melodies captivated many people.
In particular, their 2001 album Survivor was a huge hit.
From the title track to “Independent Women Part I” and “Bootylicious,” they released songs that are still loved by countless music fans today.
Their catchy sound is easy to enjoy for both children and adults, and once you hear it, you won’t forget it.
The harmonies layered with the distinctive voices of Beyoncé, Kelly, and Michelle have an appeal that makes them perfect even for newcomers to Western pop music!
WingsLittle Mix
Little Mix is a captivating girl group that continues to enthrall music fans around the world.
They shot to stardom after their dazzling victory on The X Factor and have delighted us with a wide range of hit songs.
In particular, Wings, released in 2012, is one of their signature tracks.
With its catchy melody and positive message, it garnered overwhelming support, especially among young people.
While winning various awards, their activities have also extended to solo projects.
They’re a perfect group not only for teens but also for those new to Western pop music.
With performances that showcase each member’s individuality, their songs are sure to sound pleasing to the ear.
TonightNew Kids On The Block
From the late 1980s to the early 1990s, New Kids On The Block took the world by storm.
Their appeal lay in a dazzling presence that could be called the very pinnacle of boy bands.
The 1990 single “Tonight” was a defining song of youth in that era, beloved across many countries—it sold over 200,000 copies in France alone, in addition to charting in the U.
S.
and the U.
K.
Their music is packed with catchy melodies that still stick in your head today.
As you listen to the songs that etched their name into boy-band history, you might find yourself thinking, “So that’s the hit I’ve known all along!” Their timeless music is highly recommended even for those just starting to explore Western pop.
WannabeSpice Girls
When it comes to the Spice Girls, they’re the British girl group that took the world by storm in the 1990s.
They captivated fans worldwide not only with their hit songs but also with their fashion and the empowering message of “Girl Power.” The impact of their debut single, “Wannabe,” released in 1996, still hasn’t faded.
The energy they unleashed is something I’d recommend to listeners of any musical taste.
Whether you’re young or someone who’s enjoyed Western music for many years, their songs are sure to offer a fresh surprise.