Reach for the Stars: 1996-2006: Fame, Fallout and Pop's Final Party: A Times Summer Read 2023

Between 1996 and 2006, British pop flourished, providing entertainment, escapism, and fun for millions. This book explores, celebrates, and contextualizes the era, often dismissed as inauthentic and juvenile. It is a complete behind-the-scenes history of the last great movement in British pop, documented in astonishing, honest, and eye-opening detail.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 560 pages
Publication date: 12 October 2023
Publisher: Bonnier Books Ltd

WINNER OF THE 2024 PENDERYN MUSIC BOOK PRIZE




This captivating new narrative takes us on a journey through the previously unexplored era of British pop that thrived between 1996 and 2006. It serves as a celebration and contextualization of this vibrant period, marked by the rise of the Spice Girls.


A time before the omnipresent influence of social media and the dominance of streaming services. The 00s were a decade characterized by the emergence of pop icons who delivered infectious, flawlessly crafted anthems that provided entertainment, escapism, and sheer joy to millions. It was a heady era filled with choruses that resonated with audiences, thanks to artists like Steps, S Club 7, Blue, 5ive, Mis-Teeq, Hearsay, Busted, Girls Aloud, McFly, Craig David, and Atomic Kitten, among countless others.


However, the music of this decade often faced criticism for being deemed inauthentic, juvenile, and not worthy of serious consideration. It was often viewed as a guilty pleasure, a source of enjoyment that was not taken seriously.


Now, music writer Michael Cragg aims to rectify this imbalance. Through the oral-history format, Cragg delves beneath the surface of the bubblegum exterior, engaging in extensive interviews with hundreds of the key players who were part of this remarkable movement.


The compilation of these interviews forms a comprehensive and detailed behind-the-scenes history of the last great movement in British pop. It sheds light on the realities of the experiences of popstars, songwriters, producers, choreographers, magazine editors, record-company executives, and TV moguls, providing a comprehensive perspective on the scene.


This book is a testament to the power of pop music and its ability to connect with people on a profound level. It offers a re-evaluation of the 00s, a time when British pop reached its peak and left an indelible mark on the music industry. It is a must-read for anyone who loves pop music, or for those who are interested in exploring the history and evolution of this genre.


So, grab a copy of this extraordinary book and immerse yourself in the world of 00s pop, a time when music was not just a form of entertainment, but a way of life.

Weight: 384g
Dimension: 128 x 197 x 41 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781788707275