In this episode of Music Maps we are joined by Penderyn Prize winning writer Michael Cragg to dig into the history and impact of the Spice Girls. We explore their formation in 1994 via an audition process & their early days sharing a house in Maidenhead. Originally they are known as Touch & original member Michelle Stephenson leaves after 3 months & Emma Bunton completes the lineup. They part company with original handlers Chris & Bob Herbert (also known for Bros, 5ive, Bewitched & Hearsay) & bring in Simon Fuller. The Spice Girls sign to Virgin Records in 1996 'Wannabe' becomes their debut single. The subsequent debut album quickly breaks 20 million in sales. We also touch on the concept of 'Girl Power', who came up with 'zig-a-zig-ah', the BRIT Awards appearance, the huge tours, their significant success in America, the Spice World movie, Geri Halliwell's departure, the struggles surrounding their final album 'Forever' & more. It takes anything from 5 to 40 hours to prepare each episode of Music Maps - if you’d like to make a contribution to help us cover the costs & time of producing these episodes for you, you can do so at this link: ko-fi.com/musicmaps It is hugely important for us to get positive reviews & star ratings - if you have enjoyed Music Maps & can spare the time to do either we would hugely appreciate it. You can see our upcoming live events here: https://rocknrollbookclub.co.uk/live/ Instagram: @rocknrollbookclube17 Blue Sky: @musicmaps.bsky.social X: @simonmusicmaps Facebook: E17rockbookclub Hosted by Mark Hart & Simon Cardwell Written & Produced by Simon Cardwell Edited, mixed & spruced up by Andy Maxwell Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
