The family trio Hanson are one of the first bands people think of when the phrase “one hit wonder” is thrown around. Their hit ‘MMMBop’ was huge, and we all still remember it. It was catchy, infectious and almost the perfect pop song. That’s all we know them from though, which is far from the end of the story. It’d probably be surprising to almost everyone (it certainly was in the office) to hear that not only are the trio still making music, but they’ve grown into a mature, classy pop-rock act. There’s a new sophistication to their sound, and their development and maturity is the reason for their longevity. In fact, a look at their website sees no obvious mention of ‘MMMBop’, with it becoming clear that Hanson really have moved on. They’ve embraced an admirable DIY work ethic, and have developed into great songwriters. Furthermore, Zac Hanson is the youngest songwriter nominee in the history of the Grammy Awards, an incredible feat for a so-called “one hit wonder”. Really, Hanson have become so much more than the laughing stock they are widely regarded as. They’re no longer long-haired, fresh looking pre-teens trying to grasp at 15 minutes of fame. Hanson have become a sophisticated, consistent pop act, with all three brothers (Isaac, Zac and Taylor) developing into serviceable, dare I say talented, musicians. Also admirable is the band’s reluctance to rely on their name value from their early success. However, by sticking with their surname, they’ve not run away from it either. Still a part of their live set, ‘MMMBop’ sits in the background. To leave out such a vital part of their history would be wrong, but it’s good that Hanson don’t want it overshadowing their career. It’s surprising that Hanson have shown longevity, still in the business after so long. People who are sceptical of their talent or deepness should bare in mind that the original version of ‘MMMBop’ was a tender ballad, which garnered them little attention. I realise there’s some irony in the fact that in writing about a different side to Hanson, I’ve referenced their musical stigma so often. It is a vital part of how the public remembers Hanson, which is quite unfair. They honestly have matured and developed into a great pop-rock outfit that show a solid understanding of how to make fantastic, DIY pop music. Hanson seem content with where they’re at now, but I hope this may prompt more people to give them a chance. What do you think? Do you remember Hanson from the first time round, or have you listened to their later material and agree with what we’ve said? Let us know. Female First - Alistair McGeorge
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