Chris Herbert, the mastermind behind the Spice Girls, has given a fresh interview detailing how he assembled the band back in 1994 as Wannabe celebrates its 30th anniversary. He reflects on his triumphs, offering an inside look into his early days working with Mel B, Mel C, Geri Halliwell, Victoria Beckham, and Emma Bunton.
Victoria's Audition: A Unique Performance
Herbert recalls Victoria's audition as entirely distinct from the others. 'She was entirely distinct from the rest. She held herself differently. There was an elegance and maturity about her that immediately stood out. She sang Mein Herr from Cabaret, which was a really unusual choice because everyone else was performing current pop songs. She felt comfortable singing something completely different. She was lovely, really charming, and I was very impressed.'
Victoria and David Beckham: A Power Couple Emerges
When asked about his reaction to Victoria dating David Beckham, Herbert said: 'When Victoria and David first became an item, they were both at the pinnacle of their respective careers. With David being the biggest name in football, it was clear from the off that they had the makings of a formidable power couple. The empire they've since built – their brand, their businesses and everything else – is truly remarkable. Prior to David, however, Victoria had been betrothed to another man. As the band started gaining traction, she recognised this as the opportunity she wanted to seize, leading her to call off the engagement, and I suppose that's when history began to take a different course.'
Spice Girls Reunion: Unlikely but Not Impossible
Herbert expressed doubts about a full reunion. 'Personally, I'd only be interested if all five members were present on stage. I wouldn't want to see a partial group; their legacy warrants the full line-up. Considering what Victoria has accomplished, though, it's quite extraordinary. She's successfully carved out a place for herself in the notoriously challenging fashion industry. Pop stars aren't typically taken seriously when they venture into high-end fashion, but she's defied all expectations. She's established a highly esteemed business. I genuinely can't fathom why she'd jeopardise that for a reunion. As much as I'd relish seeing all five of them reunite, I find it hard to envision. I'd be thrilled to be proven wrong, but I just can't see it happening.'
Is Victoria the Obstacle?
Herbert dismissed the idea that Victoria is deliberately blocking a reunion. 'Victoria had always been drawn to fashion. She'd consistently arrive impeccably dressed in designer garments, while the others were cobbling together looks from charity shops or second-hand outlets. She'd rock up sporting Russell & Bromley boots or similar high-end pieces. That fascination with fashion was evident from day one. What I never witnessed, however, was any indication that she was exploiting the Spice Girls as a launching pad before departing to chase fashion. I don't believe that was ever part of some master strategy. Life has simply steered her down that path. She's constructed a remarkable career pursuing something she's truly devoted to, and you could detect that devotion from the outset.'
Commercial Value Today vs. Heyday
Herbert believes the Spice Girls hold more commercial value today than during their peak. 'Without question. The ongoing speculation of 'Will they? Won't they?' only heightens the excitement. Oasis has demonstrated precisely how potent that anticipation can be. The extended wait for something people crave intensely only amplifies the yearning. I believe the Spice Girls possess identical potential. Even if nothing materialised for another decade and they regrouped for the 40th milestone, I'm convinced they'd pack out arenas across the globe. Fans yearn to be whisked back to a specific chapter of their existence. They long to recall bouncing around their bedrooms to Wannabe, mimicking their beloved Spice Girl and reliving those cherished moments. With each passing year, those emotions intensify. Therefore, I genuinely think they could eclipse their original success if executed properly.'
