The Best 2000s Boy Bands, Ranked

The Backstreet Boys played a pivotal role in revitalizing the boy band phenomenon in the late 1990s and early 2000s with hits like "I Want It That Way" and "Everybody (Backstreet's Back)." Their album Millennium set records, selling over 1.1 million copies in its first week. Known for their harmonies, catchy songs, and high-energy performances, they set new standards in pop music and live shows. Their cross-generational appeal has kept them relevant for decades, inspiring future artists and bands. The Backstreet Boys also contributed to the globalization of pop music, achieving massive international success and helping English-language pop dominate globally. 

Westlife, formed in 1998 in Ireland, quickly rose to fame with their powerful ballads and harmonious vocals. Managed by Louis Walsh and later co-managed by Simon Cowell, they were strategically positioned for success in the late '90s pop landscape. Their debut single "Swear It Again" topped the UK charts, setting the tone for a string of hits including "Flying Without Wings," "My Love," and "You Raise Me."  They dominated the UK charts with numerous No. 1 singles and albums, becoming one of the bestselling boy bands of all time. Westlife’s formula of heartfelt lyrics and strong melodies influenced subsequent pop acts and solidified their legacy as icons of late '90s and early 2000s pop music.

Boyz II Men burst onto the music scene with their unique blend of R&B, soul, and new jack swing. They quickly gained attention with their debut album Cooleyhighharmony in 1991. Hits like "Motownphilly" and "It's So Hard to Say Goodbye to Yesterday" showcased their exceptional vocal harmonies and emotional depth. They revolutionized the boy band genre by emphasizing vocal prowess over choreography and flashy performances. Their success paved the way for future R&B groups and influenced countless artists. Boyz II Men's enduring appeal lies in their ability to convey deep emotion through impeccable vocal arrangements.

The Jonas Brothers burst onto the music scene with their catchy rock sound and quickly became icons for a new generation of fans. Known for hits like "Burnin' Up," "S.O.S," and "Lovebug," they delivered energetic performances and relatable lyrics that helped them dominate the late 2000s and early 2010s. The Jonas Brothers played a crucial role in reviving the teen pop genre, blending it with rock elements and setting the stage for future acts in the Disney star pipeline.

Jagged Edge significantly impacted the R&B landscape with their smooth harmonies and emotionally resonant lyrics. Known for hits like "Let's Get Married," "Promise," and "Where the Party At," they brought a sophisticated yet relatable touch to the late '90s and early 2000s R&B scene. Their soulful ballads and uptempo tracks appealed to a wide audience, blending traditional R&B elements with contemporary sounds. Their focus on vocal harmonization and authentic storytelling set them apart from other boy bands, emphasizing musical depth and emotional authenticity.

Formed in 1995, ’N Sync swiftly rose to become one of the most influential boy bands of the late 1990s and early 2000s. They captured global attention with hits like "Bye Bye Bye," "Tearin' Up My Heart," and "It's Gonna Be Me." Their 2000 album No Strings Attached broke records, selling over 2.4 million copies in its first week, a feat that highlighted the immense commercial potential of pop music at the time. ’N Sync's innovative choreography, harmonies, and memorable music videos set new benchmarks in the industry. They also played a key role in popularizing the teen pop wave, influencing the sound and aesthetics of the era.