I know, I know, One Direction is an outdated group to compare to, but when you look at the statistics of each group it’s clear to see Brockhampton deserves the clout that One Direction had (and more). Also, sorry in advance to the triggered Harry Styles fans but this is more of an analysis on the big picture of the Brockhampton compared to previous self-proclaimed “boy bands”. Now that those points are cleared up, let’s get to the main reasons behind why Brockhampton is (in my opinion) the best band:

1. THEIR DIVERSITY

Time after time popular bands are all of one race or sexual orientation, with maybe a single token diverse member. Brockhampton, on the other hand, is a 15 member pan-racial non-heteronormative collection of artists from all different backgrounds. The original creator of the band himself – Kevin Abstract – has rapped openly about being gay ever since he came out in 2016. Ciarán McDonald – Northern Irish singer – is also bisexual and advocates for that LGBTQ+ community as well. The group is a conglomeration of unique men from all different backgrounds, unlike groups of the past where the only diversity was hair color *cough* One Direction *cough*.

 

2. THEIR EFFICIENCY

After releasing All American Trash in March 2016, Brockhampton created a trilogy of albums in 2017 (the Saturation trilogy); They were the first group to release three albums in a six-month span. When describing their creative process, they talked about how before they even had a booth or studio, “(they) just put the microphone in the middle of the room. Anyone who had an idea to get out had the opportunity to do so.” – Russell Boring. The guerilla-type tactics they apply to their singing allows for their unique ideas to shine through without too many revisions. This allows for more authentic music as well as the prolific creation of hits.

3. THEIR DEPTH

Unlike many other groups, many members within the band hold multiple positions, and every possible job relating to their sound and image is covered by a member. The ensemble has vocalists, producers, video/photographers, webmasters, and graphic designers. Kevin Abstract recruited the members from all over the country when starting an online forum titled “Anybody wanna make a band?”. For example Merlyn Wood was pursuing a degree in architecture at the University of Texas when he decided to drop out to join the Brockhampton movement. Each member made sacrifices to join the group and brought with them a different skill. Back to the Merlyn Wood example, he brings to the band distinctive alternative rap vocals similar to that of Chance the Rapper.

 

4. THEY’RE PROGRESSIVE

Not only do they showcase the importance of diversity through their members, but within their music they advocate for mental health issues and the LGBTQ+ community as well as other pressing issues. Their album Iridescence was an outlet for describing the depression of members within the group, and Ginger was a compilation of members’ descriptions of personal traumas. I would quote a few songs and their lines relating to such issues, but most of the music is quite explicit. If you’re willing to do some outside research, I would recommend listening to JUNKY, where Kevin Abstract describes the difficulties he went through being a black, gay rapper.

 

5. THE LITTLE THINGS

These points don’t technically qualify as reasons for their superiority to past boy bands, but personally I find them to be beneficial additions. Jaden Smith himself has dubbed himself an honorary member of the band after his appearance in NEW ORLEANS. Also, speaking of NEW ORLEANS, all the names of their songs are in all capital letters, contrary to many artists switching to lowercase letter song titles (Ariana Grande, gianni & kyle). This makes more of an assertion with each of their songs as if they are not to be overlooked and cause each title to stand out. 

Of course, in determining the best band, the music is the most important feature so you can decide for yourself whether or not Brockhampton’s sound is meant to be up with the greats (I would recommend listening to QUEER, ZIPPER, or 1998 TRUMAN when you go about making that decision). I will say, though, Brockhampton has created a new unique sound stemming from their life obstacles that allow for their audience to feel a sense of belonging despite whatever struggles they may be undergoing. They have in fact accomplished their goal of redefining the term “boy band” by showing the importance of variety. So although the Jonas Brothers getting the band back together may seem like a dream come true, maybe think about looking into bands with a bit more depth. When you know the background of a group and have heard their struggles and stories, you may be surprised by the new levels in which you understand and relate to their music.