boyband

A boyband is a vocal group predominantly composed of young male singers who perform pop music and appeal largely to teen and young adult audiences. They are typically noted for harmonized singing, choreographed dance routines, and a shared group identity that emphasizes unity over individual stardom.

Boybands are often formed by record labels or management companies through auditions or talent searches. Members usually receive professional training in singing, dancing, and performance, and the group's material, image, and scheduling are generally controlled by producers and managers.

The phenomenon emerged in the 20th century, with early examples such as New Kids on the Block in the 1980s, followed by global hits like the Backstreet Boys and Take That in the 1990s. The format spread internationally, giving rise to regional variants in Europe, Latin America, and East Asia, including K-pop and J-pop groups.

In addition to music, boybands often influence fashion and youth culture through touring, television appearances, and extensive merchandising. Critics have noted the genre's emphasis on manufactured image and the potential for short career spans, with members frequently leaving to pursue solo projects or reuniting after a hiatus.

Today the term remains common in Western markets and is used to describe contemporary East Asian idol groups as well, though these groups are sometimes categorized as idol groups. The concept continues to evolve with changes in production practices, social media engagement, and cross-genre collaborations.