Girls Aloud, a British-Irish girl group, made a sensational debut in the music world. Comprising Nicola Roberts, Nadine Coyle, Cheryl, Kimberley Walsh, and Sarah Harding, the group was formed on the reality TV show 'Popstars: The Rivals' in 2002. Their journey began with a bang as they achieved the UK Christmas number one single with 'Sound Of The Underground', making history in the Guinness Book of World Records. This record-breaking debut included being the first British girl band to secure a number-one spot with their first single and achieving the fastest rise from formation to chart-topping success. This remarkable beginning set the tone for their illustrious career.
Girls Aloud's musical journey was marked by the release of five studio albums, including hits like 'Sound Of The Underground', 'What Will The Neighbours Say?', 'Chemistry', 'Tangled Up', and 'Out of Control'. They also released a Greatest Hits compilation, 'The Sound of Girls Aloud' in 2006. Renowned for their string of successful singles such as 'Love Machine', 'Biology', 'Something Kinda Ooooh', 'Call The Shots', and 'The Promise', the group achieved an impressive record of 20 consecutive top 10 singles in the UK, including four number ones. Despite the single 'Untouchable' breaking their top ten streak, it still outsold several of their top ten hits, showcasing their enduring popularity.
Besides their recording success, Girls Aloud gained a reputation for their electrifying live performances. They embarked on five major sold-out UK tours, beginning in 2005 and spanning several years. Each of these tours, including the expansive 'Out Of Control' tour in 2009, showcased the group's dynamic stage presence and ability to captivate audiences. In a notable achievement, they were chosen to support Coldplay at several of their 2009 tour dates, including a significant performance at Wembley Stadium. This opportunity to perform a 75-minute set at such a prestigious venue highlighted their standing in the music industry.
Despite their immense success in the UK, Girls Aloud's international presence remained limited, as their management focused primarily on the UK market. Nevertheless, their impact was significant, with Pitchfork Media naming them one of the two best girl groups of the 21st century, alongside the Sugababes. In addition to their music, the group contributed to charitable causes, such as their cover of Aerosmith and Run DMC's 'Walk This Way' for Children In Need. Their influence extended beyond music, with Cheryl becoming a judge on 'The X Factor' and their collective autobiography, 'Dreams That Glitter', released in October 2008. Girls Aloud's journey, marked by a mix of record-breaking hits, electrifying performances, and charitable contributions, solidified their status as an iconic girl group in modern pop music.
