Fictional Bands We Wish Were Real: Jem and the Holograms to Powerline
- Dylanna Fisher
- Apr 9
- 7 min read
Updated: Nov 12
Fictional bands are one way to create a realistic fictional world. Music has always been essential to pop culture, influencing emotions, storylines, and character development in movies and TV shows.
However, some fictional bands resonate with us long after the credits roll. These musical creations, often infused with humour, nostalgia, and clever commentary, have become legendary in their own right—whether they are the ones you can’t help but laugh with or those you secretly wish would release an album.
Fictional Bands We Wish Were Real
Here’s our tribute to the unforgettable fictional bands we wish were authentic, plus song suggestions that would rock your playlist if they hit the charts in the real world!
In the vibrant and colourful landscape of the 1980s, one animated band truly captured the essence of glam, drama, and high-energy pop-rock anthems: Jem and the Holograms. Fronted by the dynamic and talented Jem, also known as Jerrica Benton, this fictional group not only entertained fans through captivating television performances but also highlighted a unique style that combined bold fashion choices with engaging musicality.
Had Jem and the Holograms existed in real life, there’s little doubt they would have made a significant impact on the music scene, easily competing with the biggest names in pop music of their time—perhaps even rivalling icons like Madonna, Cyndi Lauper, and Boy George. Their unique blend of music and storytelling left an indelible mark on pop culture and continues to resonate with fans today, solidifying their place in the hearts of those who cherish the magic of the 80s.
Jem and the Holograms Song Suggestions:
Did you know that you can watch Jem and the Holograms on Tubi?
The Archies – The Archie Show
This animated band from The Archie Show gave us some of the catchiest tunes of the late ’60s. The Archies may have been a fictional band on TV, but they produced a bona fide hit: “Sugar, Sugar.” Their bubblegum pop vibes remain timeless and a favourite among nostalgic music lovers. The band was founded by guitarist/vocalist Archie Andrews, drummer Jughead Jones, bassist Reggie Mantle, percussionist/vocalist Betty Cooper and keyboardist/vocalist Veronica Lodge.
Despite being a fictional group, The Archies had real-world success, topping charts with their music. Their sound, rooted in feel-good melodies and upbeat instrumentation, captures the essence of a more innocent era of pop music. If they had been an actual band, it’s easy to imagine them fitting in alongside the likes of The Monkees and The Beach Boys.
The Archies Song Suggestions:
Did you know that The Archies first appeared in a comic book, Life with Archie #60, in April 1967?
Doug may have been a kids’ show, but the fictional band The Beets stood out with their infectious pop-punk style. They embodied youthful rebellion and creativity, and their music still holds a special place in fans’ hearts. They are popular among the kids of Bluffington and the favourite band of Doug Funnie, Porkchop, and Skeeter Valentine, and they reigned during their 6th-grade years. However, the Beets would have a bitter breakup by the time Doug and his friends reached 7th grade.
Modelled after real-life rock legends like The Beatles and The Ramones, The Beets delivered fun and catchy songs that resonated with Doug and his friends. They were the epitome of cool in the Doug universe, proving that even a cartoon band could leave a lasting impact.
The Beets Song Suggestions:
Did you know that their original name was the “Pickled Beets,” a spoof of the Silver Beetles?
Sex Bob-omb is Scott’s indie rock band, comprising Stephen Stills (vocals and guitar), Scott Pilgrim (bass), Kim Pine (drums) and Young Neil (biggest fan and understudy bass). Fronted by Michael Cera’s character, Scott Pilgrim, Sex Bob-Omb brought a raw, garage-band energy to Scott Pilgrim vs. The World. Their lo-fi sound and explosive performances matched the film’s high-energy, comic-book-inspired aesthetic.
With music composed by Beck, Sex Bob-Omb’s songs had an authentic indie-rock feel that made them more than just a fictional band. The movie’s soundtrack remains a cult favourite, and many fans still hope for a real-world version of the band.
Sex Bob-Omb Song Suggestions:
“Garbage Truck”
“Threshold”
“Summertime”
“Ramona”
Did you know that Sex Bob-Omb’s top fans are Neil and Knives? Everyone else, including Ramona, Wallace, and Julie, hates them or just thinks they are okay.
A trio of eco-goth rockers from the beloved animated series Scooby-Doo and the Witch’s Ghost, The Hex Girls, captivated fans with their spellbinding music and strikingly spooky aesthetic. Formed by talented musicians who stand for the perfect blend of gothic and environmental themes, their debut performance was memorable and left a lasting impression on audiences of all ages. This compelling introduction solidified their status as recurring characters in the later Scooby-Doo series, embedding them deeply into the franchise’s lore.
The Hex Girls’ unique goth-inspired sound, characterized by haunting melodies and powerful, empowering lyrics, transformed them into unexpected icons within popular culture. Their music resonates deeply and passionately, appealing to a devoted fanbase across multiple generations. With songs that skilfully weave themes of magic, nature, and personal empowerment, The Hex Girls remain a unique standout in the world of fictional bands, continuing to inspire and enchant both old fans and new listeners. The legacy they have created is a testament to their creative impact and cultural significance, ensuring their place in the hearts of many as timeless figures in the realm of animated music.
The Hex Girls Song Suggestions:
Did you know that we almost had a Hex Girls spin-off?
Upon the release of Witch’s Ghost, Warner Bros. was briefly interested in doing a spin-off TV series to be developed by the film’s writers, Copp and David A. Goodman. Production was launched in 2000 on a spin-off featuring younger versions of the Hex Girls. Although it ultimately went unrealized, Cartoon Network still showed some interest in Copp’s idea, and the concept art of the younger Hex Girls has survived.
Powerline is the ultimate fictional pop star, blending elements of Prince and Michael Jackson into one electrifying performer. He is the idol of Max Goof and the majority of the background characters from the 1995 film A Goofy Movie. He is known for performing such hit songs as “Stand Out” and “I2I.”
With songs performed by '90s R&B sensation Tevin Campbell, Powerline’s music was not just a plot device—it was a highlight of A Goofy Movie.
According to director Kevin Lima and music associate producer Bambi Moé, the inspiration for Powerline came from artists such as Prince, Michael Jackson, and Bobby Brown. His stage presence, larger-than-life persona, and unforgettable anthems make him a legend in his own right. If Powerline were real, he would undoubtedly be selling out stadiums.
Powerline Song Suggestions:
Did you know that a Powerline-branded candy, “Powerlimes,” was featured in the queue of the Disneyland version of Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway at the El Capitan Theater’s concession stand and was sold as real candy shortly after the attraction’s opening?
Inspired by the early 2000s boy band craze, Turning Red‘s group, 4★Town pays homage to ensembles like NSYNC and the Backstreet Boys. Drawing inspiration from boy bands such as BIGBANG, BTS, and One Direction, 4★Town embodies the essence of the boy band phenomenon that captivated audiences.
Interestingly, a Backstreet Boys song prominently features in the film’s teaser, bridging past nostalgia with vibrant present-day animation. The soundtrack is crafted by Billie Eilish and Finneas, known for their catchy, emotional work, and parallels the greatest hits of real-life boy bands. 4★Town’s polished harmonies and heartfelt lyrics have made them an instant sensation, capturing boy band nostalgia while resonating with a new generation. With infectious appeal and a modern twist, 4★Town is the evolution of the boy band concept, staying relevant to today’s youth while honouring their predecessors’ roots.
4*Town Song Suggestions:
Did you know that A poster of 4*Town can be seen in Riley‘s bedroom in Inside Out 2?
The Be Sharps were a fictional band that gained popularity in the animated television series The Simpsons. This unique ensemble formed four distinctive characters: Homer Simpson, the bumbling yet lovable patriarch; Apu Nahasapeemapetilon, the hard-working and entrepreneurial owner of the local convenience store; Seymour Skinner, the dedicated principal of Springfield Elementary School; and Chief Wiggum, the comically inept chief of police. However, Chief Wiggum was later replaced by Barney Gumble, a regular at Moe’s Tavern, due to concerns that Wiggum’s persona was too reminiscent of a “Village People” member.
This distinctive barbershop quartet, featuring the unmistakable voice of Homer Simpson, parodied the legendary British rock band, The Beatles. Their escapades included a unique homage to The Beatles’ famous rooftop concert, highlighting their whimsical take on music and fame. The Be Sharps experienced a meteoric rise to stardom, captivating audiences with their charming performances and hilarious antics, becoming a memorable element within Springfield’s cultural landscape.
The Be Sharps Song Suggestions:
Did you know that The Be Sharps parodies The Beatles? One of their albums is called “Bigger than Jesus.” This is a nod to a John Lennon quote. He said their band was “more popular than Jesus.”
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