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The Girls Aloud phenomenon began right back in the summer of 2002 when ITV launched Popstars: The Rivals in order to find a girl group and a boy band who would compete for the Christmas number one.
Hit producer Pete Waterman, ex-Spice Girl Geri Halliwell and Westlife manager Louis Walsh were recruited as judges, whilst Davina McCall became the shows main presenter.
In a matter of weeks, thousands of young hopefuls auditioned to become part of one of the two groups. Unfortunately, only 100 could be taken to the next round of auditions, meaning many contestants' dreams came crashing down very early on. However, the ones that did make it continued to impress their way through dancing and singing rounds until just 10 remained and them public took control. But before then two of the female finalists were replaced. Hazel was too old for the show, whilst Nicola Ward refused to sign the contract and walked out. And it's a good thing they did, because that gave Nicola Roberts and Kimberley Walsh a chance to impress the voters.
One by one the final ten of each gender where voted off the show until two bands were formed - One True Voice (23rd November 2002) and Girls Aloud (30th November 2002). And then the race for #1 was on! The male "vocal harmony group" were favourites to take the crown...that was, until the public heard the singles. Girls Aloud's fresh, exciting sound managed to gain them far more support and they stormed straight to the top spot, never looking back. 'Sound of The Underground' sold over 40,000 more than the release from One True Voice and stayed at #1 for four weeks, selling over half a million copies in total.
Because of their success, Girls Aloud became the first female group to debut at number one in the UK and the first band to go to Christmas number one with their first single. With only three weeks between forming and charting they also hold the record for shortest time between formation and hitting the top spot. And they've only had one single!
Girls Aloud on Frank Skinner part 1
Girls Aloud on Frank Skinner part 2
Girls Aloud get number 1 & footage of the PSTR Girls house
