The Best Pop Bands of All Time Prove the Universal Power of Music

Let’s cut to the chorus: “Pop music” is a very subjective genre description. It’s right up there with “indie” being liberally applied to any unsigned, signed, underground, or mainstream artist who sings in cursive. And, although a rock and roll fan might swear off pop as a genre, the distinction isn’t as cookie-cutter clear as it seems.

In simple terms, pop music is literally… popular music. And, though our perception of the genre has evolved over time to become its own entity—marked by catchy melodies, unforgettable choruses, and rather saccharine lyrics—pop music, as it stands, is still just… popular music. You can't deny that.

When it comes to pop bands, we’re basically just looking at collectives of hit-makers, no matter their pop purity or crossover creed. From rock and roll adjacent pop bands like The Beatles, to Motown greats like The Supremes, R&B/pop crossovers like Destiny’s Child, and disco-influenced pop acts like ABBA, the variety of pop bands knows no bounds. The only requisite to making the cut? Topping the charts.

So, stop rehearsing that pretentious rant about industry sell-outs that you’ve been slotting for your first post-quarantine party, and just let yourself enjoy some good pop music for God’s sake. We won’t tell anyone you’re mainstream. In no particular order, here are the best pop bands of all time.