The Best Bubblegum Pop Groups & Singers of All Time

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Updated December 1, 2023 69.2K views
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If you grew up in the mid-1960s through the early-1970s, it's highly likely that you became a fan of bubblegum pop. The genre, which targeted tweens and teens, had an upbeat sound and featured young men and women singing these catchy songs. Some might say that bubblegum pop was the precursor to boy bands and pop stars, and they wouldn't be wrong. Also, you wouldn't be wrong to say that the term teenybopper originated - or at least was conceived - during this time period. There was a brief resurgence with bubblegum pop music in the late 1990s and early 2000s, but those years saw boy bands and female pop stars rise to the top of the charts.

So, what are the best bubblegum pop groups and bubblegum pop singers? You'll see artists like ABBA, The Monkees, N'Sync, Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera at or near the top of this list. These singers are associated with the music that tweens and teens listened to and primarily churned out hit singles instead of worrying about cohesive full length albums. Either way, there's a reason why bubblegum pop why has managed to return cyclically over the years, and should come as no surprise when the next batch of bubblegum pop stars top the charts.

That said, it's up to you to decide who is the best bubblegum pop group or bubblegum pop singer. If you notice that someone is missing from this list, feel free to add them. This list answers the questions "who are the best bubblegum pop bands of all time?" and "who is the greatest bubblegum pop musician ever?" If you know enough about the genre, please vote based on the quality of the band's music instead of just voting for the most popular bubblegum pop bands that you might've heard of. {#nodes}
Most divisive: Backstreet Boys
Over 1.4K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Greatest Bubblegum Pop
  • Britney Spears
    1

    What would bubblegum pop be without the iconic Princess of Pop, Britney Spears? With her undeniable charisma and hypnotic stage presence, Britney captivated audiences worldwide from the moment she burst onto the music scene with "...Baby One More Time." Her ability to deliver infectiously catchy hooks in hit after hit like "Toxic" and "Oops!...I Did It Again" is unmatched, and she has consistently reinvented herself over the years. Britney Spears' influence on the bubblegum pop genre is irrefutable, and her legendary career is a testament to her talent and longevity.

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  • Little Mix
    2

    Little Mix

    499 votes

    In 2011, Little Mix made history as the first group to win the British reality singing competition, The X Factor. Bursting onto the scene with vibrant harmonies and catchy anthems, they quickly became a global sensation. Known for their empowering messages and infectious pop hooks, Perrie, Jade, Leigh-Anne, and Jesy have redefined bubblegum pop for a new generation. Their achingly catchy tunes like "Black Magic" and "Shout Out to My Ex" have not only topped charts but also solidified their spot among the best bubblegum pop artists in history.

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  • The Monkees
    3

    The Monkees

    450 votes

    Long before boy bands were a mainstay in popular culture, The Monkees emerged as one of the pioneers of bubblegum pop. Formed as a band for a TV show in the late 1960s, this quartet's playful, upbeat tunes and engaging personalities quickly captured the hearts of fans across the globe. With memorable songs like "I'm a Believer" and "Daydream Believer," The Monkees proved that music created for television could also become chart-topping hits. The enduring popularity of their music and their groundbreaking approach to the bubblegum pop genre ensure their place as all-time greats.

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  • Spice Girls
    4

    Spice Girls

    478 votes

    As one of the most significant pop culture phenomena of the 1990s, the Spice Girls were a force to be reckoned with in the bubblegum pop world. The fierce girl power and unapologetic individuality displayed by Scary, Baby, Ginger, Sporty, and Posh Spice made them role models for millions of young fans. Their unforgettable hits like "Wannabe" and "Spice Up Your Life" serve as vibrant anthems for a generation. The Spice Girls' trailblazing spirit and irresistible tunes have firmly established them among the best bubblegum pop groups ever.

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  • The Archies
    5

    The Archies

    294 votes

    The Archies, an animated band from the late 1960s, showcased that even fictional characters could dominate the bubblegum pop scene. Created for the popular comic series and television show Archie, this virtual group topped the charts with their infectiously sweet tunes. The Archies' biggest hit, "Sugar, Sugar," became synonymous with the bubblegum pop genre, exemplifying its upbeat, catchy, and irresistibly fun nature. The Archies' impact on the bubblegum pop universe is undeniable, proving that even animated musicians can leave a lasting mark on the industry.

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  • Tommy James & the Shondells
    6

    Tommy James & the Shondells

    297 votes

    In the late 1960s, Tommy James & the Shondells brought a new sound to the bubblegum pop genre with their infectious melodies and high-energy performances. Known for their timeless hits like "Crimson and Clover" and "I Think We're Alone Now," this band captivated audiences worldwide with their feel-good tunes. Their lasting influence on the bubblegum pop genre cannot be overstated, as they pushed the boundaries of what pop music could be and paved the way for future artists. With a legacy built on catchy hooks and irresistible melodies, Tommy James & the Shondells undoubtedly earned their spot among the best bubblegum pop artists.

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  • Katy Perry
    7

    Katy Perry

    380 votes

    With her colorful, over-the-top style and undeniable knack for creating electrifying pop anthems, Katy Perry quickly established herself as an essential figure in the bubblegum pop landscape. Ever since her breakthrough hit "I Kissed a Girl," Perry has captivated audiences with her vivacious tunes and larger-than-life performances. Her ability to consistently produce chart-topping songs, such as "California Gurls" and "Firework," highlights her incredible talent and adaptability within the bubblegum pop genre. Katy Perry's charismatic presence and undeniable talent make her a standout among the all-time greats.

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  • Backstreet Boys
    8

    As one of the essential boy bands of the '90s, the Backstreet Boys provided the soundtrack for an entire generation's most cherished memories. Their smooth harmonies and unforgettable hits like "I Want It That Way" and "Quit Playing Games (With My Heart)" made them a staple of the bubblegum pop era. With their endearing personalities, good looks, and undeniable charm, the group won over legions of fans and solidified their place in music history. The Backstreet Boys' lasting impact on the bubblegum pop genre is a testament to their talent and enduring appeal.

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  • One Direction
    9

    One Direction

    220 votes

    Born from the British reality singing competition The X Factor, One Direction quickly became a global phenomenon and a defining group of the bubblegum pop genre. Consisting of Harry Styles, Liam Payne, Niall Horan, Zayn Malik, and Louis Tomlinson, this talented quintet took the world by storm with their catchy tunes and magnetic stage presence. With hits like "What Makes You Beautiful" and "Story of My Life," One Direction captured the hearts of millions while leaving an indelible mark on the bubblegum pop landscape. Their meteoric rise to fame and lasting legacy places them firmly among the best.

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  • Josie and the Pussycats
    10

    Following in the footsteps of The Archies, Josie and the Pussycats were another animated band that made a significant impact on the bubblegum pop scene. Born from the popular comic books and television series, this iconic trio gained widespread acclaim for their catchy tunes, stylish outfits, and empowering messages. Fans couldn't help but fall in love with their bubbly tunes like "Every Beat of My Heart" and "Stop, Look and Listen." Josie and the Pussycats' enduring appeal cements their status as one of the best bubblegum pop groups of all time.

  • The Ohio Express
    11

    In the late 1960s, The Ohio Express emerged as one of the leading bubblegum pop bands of the era. Showcasing a knack for catchy hooks and upbeat melodies, they gained widespread success with iconic hits like "Yummy Yummy Yummy." Furthermore, their collaboration with legendary songwriters and producers Jerry Kasenetz and Jeffry Katz helped shape the sound of the bubblegum pop genre. The Ohio Express' undeniable influence on the pop landscape warrants their spot among the all-time greats.

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  • Bananarama
    12

    Bananarama

    138 votes

    With their vivacious energy and unforgettable style, Bananarama brought a fresh take to bubblegum pop in the 1980s. The talented all-female trio consistently delivered infectious tunes like "Cruel Summer" and "Venus," demonstrating their ability to create chart-topping hits that captured the hearts of music lovers worldwide. Known for their fun-loving personas and trailblazing spirit, Bananarama's iconic presence in the bubblegum pop genre makes them stand out as one of the best groups of all time.

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  • Usher
    13

    Usher

    80 votes

    With his smooth vocals, undeniable charisma, and penchant for crafting infectious tunes, Usher made a significant impact on the bubblegum pop scene in the late '90s and early 2000s. As he rose to fame with hits like "U Remind Me" and "Yeah!", Usher quickly became a dominant force in the music industry, blending R&B sensibilities with bubblegum pop appeal. His lasting influence on the genre and continued success in the music world ensure his legacy as one of the best bubblegum pop singers of all time.

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  • Jennifer Lopez
    14

    Multitalented star Jennifer Lopez has made her mark on a variety of entertainment industries, but it's her work in the bubblegum pop realm that solidified her status as an all-time great singer. Bursting onto the scene with hits like "If You Had My Love" and "Love Don't Cost a Thing," J.Lo's captivating stage presence and irresistible tunes quickly earned her a spot among bubblegum pop royalty. With her unmistakable voice and unwavering dedication to her craft, Jennifer Lopez's contributions to the bubblegum pop genre are impossible to ignore.

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  • Christina Aguilera
    15

    Emerging as one of the most powerful voices of her generation, Christina Aguilera took the bubblegum pop world by storm with her debut single "Genie in a Bottle." With her commanding vocals and penchant for creating catchy, radio-friendly hits, Aguilera quickly became a dominant force in the music industry. Steadily evolving her sound over the years while remaining true to her bubblegum pop roots, Christina's legacy in the genre is undeniably strong, securing her place as one of the all-time best singers.

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  • Aqua
    16

    Aqua

    303 votes

    With their unforgettable, upbeat tunes and quirky style, Aqua left an indelible mark on the bubblegum pop scene in the late '90s. The Danish-Norwegian group rose to fame with their infectious hit "Barbie Girl," and continued to bring their quirky charm and catchy melodies to fans around the world. Aqua's unique blend of high-energy Eurodance beats and bubblegum pop sensibilities helped solidify their status as one of the most memorable groups in the genre.

  • *NSYNC
    17

    *NSYNC

    382 votes

    As a quintessential '90s boy band, *NSYNC was a driving force in the bubblegum pop movement. Comprised of Justin Timberlake, JC Chasez, Joey Fatone, Chris Kirkpatrick, and Lance Bass, the group delivered impeccable harmonies and unforgettable hits like "Bye Bye Bye" and "Tearin' Up My Heart." With their undeniable charm and captivating stage presence, *NSYNC won over legions of fans and made a significant impact on the bubblegum pop landscape, firmly securing their place among the best groups of all time.

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  • 1910 Fruitgum Company
    18

    Pioneers of the bubblegum pop genre, the 1910 Fruitgum Company burst onto the scene in the late '60s with their sugary-sweet melodies and infectiously catchy tunes. With hits like "Simon Says" and "1, 2, 3, Red Light," this group epitomized the quintessential sound of bubblegum pop. Their playful lyrics, irresistible hooks, and upbeat vibe left a lasting impression on the genre, paving the way for future bubblegum pop artists. The 1910 Fruitgum Company's pioneering role in shaping the bubblegum pop sound ensures their place among the best.

  • Hannah Montana
    19

    The fictional character of Hannah Montana, portrayed by Miley Cyrus, left an indelible mark on the bubblegum pop landscape during her Disney Channel heyday. With catchy tunes like "Best of Both Worlds" and "Nobody's Perfect," the pop superstar persona captivated young audiences, blending relatable storytelling with infectious melodies. As a character that captivated fans and dominated the charts, Hannah Montana's contributions to the bubblegum pop genre remain undeniable.

  • New Kids on the Block
    20

    Pioneers of the modern boy band movement, New Kids on the Block redefined bubblegum pop in the late '80s and early '90s. Their unforgettable hits like "Step by Step" and "Hangin' Tough" captured the essence of the era, while their charming personalities and undeniable chemistry won over fans across the globe. As one of the first groups to establish the contemporary boy band formula, New Kids on the Block's influence on the bubblegum pop genre is indisputable, earning them a spot among the all-time greats.

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  • Sweet
    21

    Sweet

    266 votes

    British glam rockers Sweet brought a unique twist to the bubblegum pop genre in the early '70s. Known for their energetic performances and distinctive style, the group created infectious tunes like "Ballroom Blitz" and "Fox on the Run" that captivated audiences worldwide. With their irresistible hooks and timeless appeal, Sweet's lasting impact on the bubblegum pop genre is undeniable, earning them a well-deserved spot among the best artists in the category.

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  • Mandy Moore
    22

    Mandy Moore

    275 votes

    Mandy Moore burst onto the bubblegum pop scene in the late '90s with her debut single "Candy," immediately capturing music lovers' attention with her sweet vocals and undeniable charisma. As a multi-talented performer, Moore showcased her versatility in both music and acting while remaining true to her pop roots. Her infectious tunes and lovable persona earned her a devoted fanbase and a place among the best bubblegum pop singers of all time.

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  • Hilary Duff
    23

    Hilary Duff

    303 votes

    As a teen idol and beloved actress, Hilary Duff charmed fans with her foray into the bubblegum pop scene in the early 2000s. Her catchy tunes like "So Yesterday" and " Come Clean" showcased her ability to create memorable, radio-friendly hits that resonated with audiences worldwide. With her sweet vocals and girl-next-door image, Duff carved a niche for herself in the bubblegum pop genre, securing her position as one of its all-time best singers.

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  • Hanson
    24

    Hanson

    149 votes

    The three-brother band Hanson skyrocketed to fame in the late '90s with their infectious hit "MMMBop," showcasing their ability to craft memorable bubblegum pop tunes. With their youthful energy and undeniable talent, Hanson quickly captured the hearts of fans worldwide. Their continued success in creating catchy, feel-good music has solidified their place among the best bubblegum pop groups of all time.

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  • Edison Lighthouse
    25

    In the early 1970s, British band Edison Lighthouse made their mark on the bubblegum pop landscape with their chart-topping single "Love Grows (Where My Rosemary Goes)." Their sunny melodies and feel-good vibes became synonymous with the genre, capturing the hearts of music lovers around the world. As a one-hit-wonder with a lasting impact, Edison Lighthouse's contribution to the bubblegum pop genre warrants recognition among the greats.

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  • New Edition
    26

    New Edition

    77 votes

    As one of the pioneers of the boy band movement, New Edition brought a fresh sound to bubblegum pop in the 1980s. The R&B-infused vibes of hits like "Candy Girl" and "Cool It Now" showcased the group's unique style, blending smooth harmonies with irresistible hooks. With their enduring appeal and trailblazing approach to the genre, New Edition's impact on bubblegum pop is undeniable, earning them a well-deserved spot among the best.

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  • Debbie Gibson
    27

    Debbie Gibson

    216 votes

    As a teen sensation in the late '80s, Debbie Gibson brought her youthful energy and incredible talent to the bubblegum pop scene with unforgettable hits like "Only in My Dreams" and "Lost in Your Eyes." Known for her sweet vocals, heartfelt lyrics, and undeniable charisma, Gibson quickly became a favorite among fans and critics alike. With her ability to capture the essence of the genre and remain a prominent figure in music over the years, Debbie Gibson has firmly established herself as one of the best bubblegum pop singers of all time.

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  • Ciara
    28

    Ciara

    77 votes

    With her mesmerizing dance moves, powerful vocals, and undeniable stage presence, Ciara took the bubblegum pop world by storm in the mid-2000s. Her catchy tunes like "Goodies" and "1, 2 Step" showcased her ability to blend R&B and hip-hop influences with bubblegum pop sensibilities, captivating audiences around the globe. As a multi-talented performer who consistently pushes the boundaries of the genre, Ciara has undoubtedly earned her place among the best bubblegum pop singers of all time.

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  • Tiffany Young
    29

    Tiffany Young

    142 votes

    As a former member of K-pop sensation Girls' Generation, Tiffany Young wasted no time establishing herself as a formidable solo artist in the bubblegum pop scene. With her incredible vocal range and knack for crafting memorable tunes, Tiffany has garnered international acclaim for her work in both Korean and English-language pop music. As a powerful force in the genre and an inspiration to countless fans worldwide, Tiffany Young's status as one of the best bubblegum pop singers is well-earned.

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  • Jessica Simpson
    30

    As a multi-talented performer, Jessica Simpson made her mark on the bubblegum pop scene in the late '90s and early 2000s with hits like "I Wanna Love You Forever" and "Irresistible." With her powerful voice, girl-next-door charm, and undeniable stage presence, Simpson quickly became a favorite among music lovers of the era. As a singer who remains relevant and influential to this day, Jessica Simpson's contributions to the genre make her one of the best bubblegum pop singers of all time.

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