It seems like the term “boy band” is being very loosely thrown around these days. Just because a group of young, good-looking men are in a band together, this does NOT make them a boy band. If you go by this rule, then we’d have to call The Strokes and Vampire Weekend boy bands. I think we can universally agree that they are not.
So, what exactly is a “boy band” then? Let’s consult the dictionary!
Boy band (noun): a group of young men who perform popular songs together and dance as a group.
Now compare this to the definition of a band:
Band (noun): a group of musicians who play music together.
See the difference? The biggest being that boy bands DANCE. We’d also add that they tend to dress in matching/similar outfits, and are known for their harmonies.
Just because a group of young, cute guys are in a band, and in many cases being marketed to younger audiences, it does NOT mean they are a boy band. Now, here are some examples.
NKOTB – Boy band!
Big Time Rush – Boy band!
Backstreet Boys – Boy band!
Jonas Brothers – NOT a boy band!
The Vamps – NOT a boy band!
Midnight Red – Boy band!
5SOS – NOT a boy band!
AJR – NOT a boy band!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Dg8pB2mfoE
NSYNC – Boy band!
Got it? In summary, being boys in a band does NOT make you a boy band. Please choose your words wisely.
And if you’re a group of boys in a band, and you don’t dance OR play instruments? We’re just not sure what to call you.
For example, The Wanted – Props for trying though! Dancing is hard.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n-oIH3r1jw0
