30 years after its release, the Spice Girls’ hit “Wannabe” remains one of the most iconic pop songs of the modern era, cementing the group’s place in music history.
The hit single that defined 1990s pop culture
The track launched the five‑piece group into global stardom when it was released on June 26, 1996.
It rose to the top of charts across more than 30 countries and became the face of the “Girl Power” movement.
The song has now been streamed nearly 1.5 billion times on Spotify.
“They weren’t just a throwaway pop band. They were very spirited, and they had quite strong messages as well, about feminism and about girl power and about being who you are,” Dominic Mohan, a former editor of The Sun tabloid who covered the British music scene at the time, told AFP.
“Wannabe – it’s one of those records, as soon as you hear it you realise that it’s going to go down in history,” he added.
MORE MUSIC NEWS: Madonna finally explains why her biopic fell apart
Celebrating a legendary era
To mark the milestone, the Barbican Centre in London has opened an exhibition titled “1996: 30 Years On,” running through mid-September.
The display features the group and the iconic outfits that defined their image.
Unlike previous acts that dressed in matching uniforms, each member developed a distinct persona: Mel B as Scary Spice in a leopard‑print catsuit; Mel C as Sporty Spice in tracksuits; Geri Halliwell as Ginger Spice, famous for her Union Jack dress; Victoria Adams, later Beckham, as Posh Spice in sleek dark ensembles; and Emma Bunton as Baby Spice in soft pastel styles.
Reunion hopes rise for anniversary
As the anniversary arrives, attention turns to whether the group will reunite.
“It’s our 30th anniversary, I do think we should be doing something,” said Mel B.
“We’re all talking about it, but nothing has been confirmed.”
Meanwhile, Joel Gray said the group’s reputation as simple pop stars overlooks their real impact.
“There’s a tendency, I think, for people to look back and think Spice Girls were really bubblegum pop. But they actually had much more of a punk feel,” he remarked.
He added that their openness also won them a loyal following among diverse audiences.
While no major live event has been confirmed, the group has released commemorative merchandise.
Industry observers say a once‑off performance is still possible.
“I don’t think we’re going to see a permanent full‑time reunion, but I could absolutely see them doing something again as a group,” Gray said.
And as the members have shown over the years: “What I’ve learned with the Spice Girls is never say never.”
READ NEXT: Stray Kids’ ‘RUN IT’ sets the stage for a new world tour
Elan Castanares 
Newsjustnews writers 
Mary Mae Balasanos