'90s Pop Group Behind One of the Decade's Biggest Hits Announces Breakup After 30 Years
Hiya, Barbie, no more.
Aqua, the 1990s band behind the iconic song "Barbie Girl," announced they are splitting up after nearly three decades together.
"Dear everyone ❤️ After many incredible years, we have decided to close the chapter of AQUA as a live band," the Danish-Norwegian band shared via Instagram on Monday, May 18. "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 traveled 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."
"Barbie Girl" - which was released in April 1997 - was the third single off the band's debut studio album, Aquarium. The song was written by band members Søren Rasted, Claus Norreen, René Dif, and Lene Nystrøm, and would become synonymous with the band. It reached No. 1 in multiple international charts and peaked at No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
"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's announcement continued. "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."
In addition to "Barbie Girl," the group topped the UK Singles Chart with "Doctor Jones" and "Turn Back Time." They earned multiple awards over the years, including a Billboard Music Video Award. They also earned two Grammy nominations in 2024 after their hit song was sampled by Nicki Minaj and Ice Spice for their song, "Barbie Girl," off the Barbie soundtrack.
"Nothing but love and gratitude from here on," the band added. "Endless love ❤️ Lene, René & Søren."
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This story was originally published May 18, 2026 at 12:26 PM.