Danish Europop group Aqua have announced they are ending their time as a live band after three decades. The band, best known for their 1997 hit 'Barbie Girl', shared a farewell message on Instagram, saying they have decided to 'close the chapter' to protect their legacy.
Formed in 1995, Aqua released their debut album 'Aquarium' two years later, which became a global sensation. The group sold over 33 million records worldwide and earned two Grammy nominations for 'Barbie Girl', which remains one of the best-selling singles of all time.
In their statement, members René Dif, Lene Nystrøm, and Søren Rasted expressed gratitude to fans, saying: 'We’ve travelled the world countless times, met so many wonderful people, sung together with millions of you, and shared memories that we will carry with us forever.' They added that the decision felt right 'while the memories are still strong'.
The band faced a lawsuit from Mattel in the 2000s over 'Barbie Girl', which was dismissed with the judge advising the parties to 'chill'. Despite the legal battle, the song was later licensed for the 2023 'Barbie' film and sampled in Nicki Minaj and Ice Spice's 'Barbie World'.
Aqua briefly split in 2001 but reunited in 2007 for a greatest hits album. They continued touring, though original member Claus Norreen left in 2016. The remaining members have now decided to stop all live performances, marking the end of an era for Denmark's most successful group.
