Top 10 Songs by Girl Group Members Who Went Solo

Believe it or not, HyunA is actually a two-time girl group graduate. After debuting with the Wonder Girls in 2007, she then left to join 4Minute and debut again in 2009. Shortly after, the idol began to gain traction as a soloist, standing out from the crowd with her unique style. Not so much the girl next door, everything the artist produces is colorful, fun and a bit bizarre. Ten years into her career, “Lip & Hip” represents her fun and catchy style perfectly, and the upbeat track is a classic.

As the lead singer of the ultra popular Pussycat Dolls, it’s no secret that Sherzinger was often seen as the band’s frontwoman. And after branching out as a soloist and tv personality, her popularity continued internationally. In 2011, “Don’t Hold Your Breath” became her third top twenty UK single as a solo act. Soon after, “Right There,” which swapped her pop-heavy style for a more seductive R&B feel, went on to become her fourth UK success. With Rihanna’s island influence and a feature from 50 Cent, it’s no surprise the song became her highest charting song as lead artist stateside.

In 2016, Camila’s exit from Fifth Harmony was far from peaceful. Even though the singer had already released some of her own music while still in the band, her reputation as a soloist suffered due to group drama, media commentary, and fan wars. Since then, she’s been able to eclipse the controversy with her success, and “Havana” is perfect proof. Less than a year after her departure from the group, Havana topped more than twenty charts internationally and became a radio hit. Showcasing her Cuban heritage, this song set Camila on the path to solo stardom.

As if being the lead singer of history’s biggest female rock band wasn’t enough, Belinda’s solo career is just as legendary. She quickly had her audience wrapped around her finger as they fell head over heels for the 80’s it-girl and her catchy songs. Her first US chart topper, “Heaven Is a Place on Earth” remains one of her most recognizable hits. Paired with the music video directed by Diane Keaton, it’s the perfect time capsule. A memorable chorus and message of hope have kept the song relevant to this day.

You can’t talk about girl groups without bringing up the forever-iconic Spice Girls. And while none of the members’ individual music careers ever reached the group’s level of success, there are definitely some standouts. Emma Bunton’s “Maybe” is a great example, and the vintage inspired song quickly became a UK smash. But no one dominated the charts like Mel C. With a dance-pop feel and a music video set in Ibiza, “I Turn To You” perfectly captures the summer of 2000. Fun, catchy, and upbeat, it’s one of her most popular releases internationally.

Even while she was a part of TLC, Lisa, also known as “Left Eye,” was heavily involved in the group’s creative direction and songwriting. The only member to establish her own music career, the artist made a splash as a collaborator on several hit singles. And while “The Block Party'' wasn't her biggest hit stateside, many have called the tune “ahead of its time.” Equal parts playful and experimental, the song is pure fun. After her tragic death, the song would later be remixed and added to a posthumous album to honor her legacy.

There aren’t enough words to describe Missy Elliott. She’s a trailblazing rapstress, hit machine, and four time grammy-winner. After beginning her career with the short-lived R&B group Sista, the lyrical genius established herself as a household name starting with her first solo album in 1997. Her big hits like “Work It,” to iconic collaborations like “Lose Control” with Ciara and Fat Man Scoop made Missy a music legend. Not only is “Get Ur Freak On” a song that stands the test of time, but it showcases why the artist is so well respected. The catchy hooks and sexual wordplay are quintessentially Missy.

After being part of the all-female rock band the Runaways, Joan paved the way for female artists when she started her own record label. And while her Arrows cover put her on the map, “Bad Reputation” solidified her stardom. In the music video for this smash hit, Joan depicts all of the labels who rejected her. Staying true to herself, her style, and her love for the rock scene, she would eventually earn the nickname “Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll.” Years later, the song has been passed on through generations, covered by other artists, and featured in all kinds of media.

From leading the untouchable Supremes to receiving not one but two Grammy awards for lifetime achievement, no one has had a career quite like Diana Ross. After ruling the 60’s with her Motown girl group, she started appearing as a soloist in 1968 and released her first solo album in 1970. Featuring her timeless ballad “Reach Out and Touch (Somebody’s Hand)” the album launched an immensely successful solo career. Ten years later, Diana continued to top the charts with “Upside Down.” A timeless classic, the song is infectious, so it’s no surprise that it was one of her biggest hits. A true supernova, she would become the inspiration for so many music divas to come.

Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.

“Motivation” (2019) , Normani
The Fifth Harmony Alum Shows off Her Popstar Chops

“2 On” (2014) , Tinashe feat. ScHoolboy Q
From The Stunners to R&B Stardom

“Don’t Say Love” (2023), Leigh-Anne
The Little Mix Singer Returned to the Spotlight with a Solo Record Deal

“Motivation” (2011), Kelly Rowland feat. Lil Wayne
Another Solo Hit from the Talented Destiny’s Child Member

“Solo” (2018) , Jennie
One of the Most Successful K-Pop Solos of All Time

After capturing the world’s attention as part of Destiny’s Child, Beyoncé came out swinging with her solo debut (aside from a track on a soundtrack album). The catchy R&B song soon became a mega-hit, and in no time the singer was stealing hearts and topping charts around the globe. As her success continued to grow, “Crazy in Love” went on to win two Grammys, and twenty years later, it’s still an iconic pop anthem. Known as Queen Bey for a reason, she’s reigned over the industry for decades, even with her latest country music single “Texas Hold ‘Em.” With an unrivaled career under her belt, it turns out the star’s first solo really was “history in the making.”

Which girl group members do you think shone as soloists? Let us know the songs you would add in the comments below.