AQUA has split after more than 30 years, just as the Barbie movie gave the Eurodance icons renewed fame.
The group has stopped performing live, three years after the 2023 comedy-fantasy flick gave AQUA their biggest comeback in decades as rappers Nicki Minaj, 43, and Ice Spice, 26, sampled the band’s 1997 smash hit Barbie Girl on the single Barbie World.
Announcing the Split
Members Rene Dif, 58, Soren Rasted, 56, and Lene Nystrom, 52, said in a statement, “After many incredible years, we have decided to close the chapter of AQUA as a live band.”
“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.”
“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.”
Success of AQUA
AQUA – which saw founding member Claus Norreen, 55, quit in 2016 – have done hundreds of concerts since their inception in 1995.
They sold over 33 million records worldwide, quickly cementing themselves as one of the biggest pop acts of the late 1990s.
And the Cartoon Heroes hitmakers think now is the right time to close the 31-year-long chapter.
AQUA’s statement continued, “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.”
Thanking the Fans
AQUA ended by thanking their legion of fans for their support.
The group concluded, “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.”
“Nothing but love and gratitude from here on.
“Endless love, Lene, Rene and Soren.”
Fan’s Responses
AQUA’s fans have been left devastated by their breakup, a year before the 30th anniversary of their debut album Aquarium.
One penned, “Thank you for being part of my life since childhood”
“Your music has been with me through so many moments, memories, and emotions over the years. Meeting you in person years ago was something truly special that I will always carry in my heart.”
“Thank you for the music, the inspiration, and all the beautiful moments your art has given me. No matter how much time passes, you will always be part of my life. I wish you all the best in this life.”
A second typed, “Devastated…but also so grateful to have seen your brilliant live show several times…your incredible catalogue of songs will live on forever.”
And a third wrote, “Thank you for the joyous memories, old and new. I’m obviously sad this chapter is closing, but your music will continue to be one of my favorite things ever.”
“Please consider a reunion one day! I never got to see you live, but I’ve been a fan for decades. aqua forever.”