Danish-Norwegian pop band Aqua, best known for their 1997 global hit 'Barbie Girl', have announced their breakup after three decades together. The news was shared via Instagram on Monday afternoon, leaving many loyal fans disheartened.
Announcement on Social Media
In a post accompanied by the band's logo, Aqua wrote: 'Dear everyone. After many incredible years, we have decided to close the chapter of AQUA as a live band. AQUA has been such a huge part of our lives, and together we've had the chance to experience more than we ever dared to dream of.'
The statement continued: '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. When you've been together for this long, you also learn when it's time to protect what you've created together. For us, this feels like the right moment to say goodbye, while the memories are still strong, and while the love for the music, the story, and each other remains intact.'
The band expressed gratitude: 'From the bottom of our hearts: thank you to everyone who has been part of this journey over the past 30 years. Thank you for the love, the energy, the support, and for all the moments we've shared together.' They concluded with: 'Nothing but love and gratitude from here on. Endless love, Lene, René & Søren.'
Career Highlights
Aqua formed in 1995 and went on to sell over 33 million singles and albums worldwide. Their biggest hit, 'Barbie Girl', reached number one on the UK singles chart in 1997. Other notable tracks include 'Doctor Jones' and 'Turn Back Time'. In 2023, a revamped version of 'Barbie Girl' by Nicki Minaj and Ice Spice, tied to the 'Barbie' film starring Margot Robbie, peaked at number four in the UK.
Reactions from Peers and Fans
Danish singer Whigfield, known for 'Saturday Night', commented in Danish: 'Thank you for the music and the good times.' Fans also shared their sentiments. One wrote: 'This news breaks our hearts.. Thank you Aqua for the emotions you gave us.. We will continue to love you forever.' Another said: 'Love you guys! The one band I never got round to seeing live. Always loved your music. We need music like this in the world and nobody does it like you guys. Thank you for everything!'
A third fan added: 'Thank you for being part of my life since childhood. Your music has been with me through so many moments, memories, and emotions over the years. Meeting you in person years ago was something truly special that I will always carry in my heart.' Comparing them to other 90s acts, a fourth commented: 'You guys, along with the Spice Girls, Backstreet Boys, Marilyn Manson, TLC, No Doubt, Garbage, Alanis Morissette and Hanson make us 90's kids fly high in the sky, thank for the music guys, you will always be alive and present in our heart and our ears.'
In a nod to their most famous hit, a fifth fan cheekily wrote: 'So happy to have seen you in Vegas in 2023. It was a dream come true! Aqua forever. See ya Barbie, bye Ken.'
Band Members
The group comprised lead vocalist Lene Nystrøm (52), vocalist René Dif (58), and producer Søren Rasted (56). Claus Norreen (55) was also a member but left in 2016 to pursue other projects.
