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Making the Band
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Making the Band
Created byLou Pearlman
Mary-Ellis Bunim
Jonathan Murray
Andrew Marek
No. of seasons12
No. of episodes142
Production
Executive producersLou Pearlman (ABC version)
Sean Combs (MTV version)
Jonathan Murray
Mary-Ellis Bunim
Running time60 min
Production companiesBunim/Murray Productions (2000–2003)
Trans Continental Pictures (2000–2004)
Bad Boy Films (2002–2009)
The Ted & Perry Company (2009)
MTV Series Entertainment (2002–2009)
Original release
NetworkABC (2000–2001)
MTV (2001–2009)
ReleaseMarch 24, 2000 (2000-03-24) –
October 10, 2009 (2009-10-10)

Making the Band is an ABC/MTV reality television series that exists in separate iterations, each focusing on a specific music act. It spawned musical acts O-Town, Da Band, Danity Kane, Day26, and Donnie Klang. Except for the first iteration of the series featuring O-Town, all seasons of Making the Band have been overseen by Diddy, acting as the man of the house who makes the final decision on who will be in the band. MTV announced on July 15, 2019, that the series was revived and would premiere in 2020,[1] which was then postponed to 2021 due to the global COVID-19 pandemic. However, this never materialized.

Making the Band: O-Town

[edit]

The first iteration of Making the Band started on March 24, 2000, and aired for three seasons, finishing on March 30, 2002. It centered around the musical group O-Town.

The first season aired on ABC. Making the Band was the last new series, and the only series that was not a sitcom, to air during the original run of the TGIF block. The block ended its run upon the end of the series' first season in 2000. Making the Band was then relocated to cable television network MTV, where two additional seasons aired. Future iterations of the show also aired on MTV. O-Town's return for additional seasons marked the first time the main cast of a reality show returned for a second season.

Season 1

[edit]

In 1999, Lou Pearlman, the man responsible for the formation of the Backstreet Boys and NSYNC, embarked on a nationwide talent search, cutting auditions in eight cities down to 25 young men, and eventually to eight finalists. These eight young men would compete for five spots in Pearlman's newest boy band creation, to be signed to his record label, Transcontinental Records.

The season chronicled the competition between the men in typical reality-show fashion. It featured on screen choreography by Ramon Del Barrio. Midway through the first season, three of the eight men (Paul Martin, Mike Miller and Bryan Chan) were eliminated, leaving Ashley Parker Angel, Jacob Underwood, Erik-Michael Estrada (not to be confused with American actor Erik Estrada), Trevor Penick, and Ikaika Kahoano. These five were set to become O-Town and the process of producing their first CD began. Several episodes later, however, Kahoano left for reasons that weren't exactly clear. Kahoano later stated that he "did not respect the other members on a musical or personal level" and described the experience as "wack". He later joined Making the Band semi-finalist Mike Miller and Bryan Chan to form the boy-band LMNT.[2] Selecting from the original group of 25 semi-finalists, the remaining four members of the band chose Dan Miller to be Kahoano's replacement. With the final member of O-Town in place, the remainder of the first season tracked the development and struggles with the new band.

Seasons 2–3

[edit]

The second and third seasons continued to track the development of O-Town as a pop group, following tours, performances, and other seminal events in the band's history. Such events included the development of their second CD, O2, their transition to a new record label, Clive Davis' J Records, and an ongoing struggle to "prove themselves" as legitimate artists.

Making the Band 2: Da Band

[edit]

The second iteration of Making the Band started on October 19, 2002, and aired for three seasons, finishing on April 29, 2004. It centered around the musical group Da Band and was filmed in various spaces around Manhattan all designed by noted visual artist and designer Ron Norsworthy.

Season 1

[edit]

In 2002, a new talent search had begun, this time by P. Diddy. Diddy sought to find the best rappers and singers from which to assemble a new hip-hop group. After weeks of selection and training P. Diddy chose the members of the band (Sara Rivers, Dylan Dilinjah, Frederick (Freddy P) Watson, Rodney (Chopper) Hill, Lloyd (Ness) Mathis and Lynese (Babs) Wiley) on the first season of Making the Band 2.

Orlando (OG) Goodman, Walter (Hammin) Anderson, Kimberly (Mysterious) Bert now known as Misty Blanco, Belinda (Pocahantas) Carter, Damone Coleman, Jamie Huy, Yazmin Mendez, Jonessa Monique, Mina Monroe, Allah Ricks and Jamirah Turner did not make the cut.

Season 2

[edit]

For several weeks, the contestants lived together and were subjected to difficult tasks, including walking from Midtown Manhattan to Brooklyn to purchase cheesecake for Diddy and reciting the Notorious B.I.G.'s Juicy and the Sugarhill Gang's Rapper's Delight out loud in the Bad Boy Records office. Many altercations between members also took place throughout the season. The finalists were then named Da Band.

Their debut album, Too Hot for TV, was released in September 2003. Their first single was "Bad Boy This, Bad Boy That", and their second was "Tonight". The album was certified gold, selling 600,000 copies.

Season 3

[edit]

Da Band effectively ended its career at the end of the third season of the show, when P. Diddy dissolved the group during the season finale. However, he still wanted to work with Babs and Ness, calling them hip hop's next "Bonnie and Clyde". Babs went on the promote the underground rap battle "Queen of the Ring" featured on YouTube and Ness was able to release a song called "My Hood" under the name E. Ness, though it did not chart. Though not selected to be chosen to stay at the end of season 3, Diddy also kept Chopper, now known as Young City. Chopper was then signed to Bad Boy South. Sara Stokes, Frederick and Dylan John were the remaining three members of Da Band to be dropped completely from Bad Boy.

Making the Band 3: Danity Kane

[edit]

The third iteration of Making the Band started on March 3, 2005, and aired for three seasons, finishing on August 10, 2006. It centered on the musical group Danity Kane. Home base interiors were again designed by Ron Norsworthy.

Season 1

[edit]

After the failure of Bad Boy's Da Band, P. Diddy returned with Making the Band 3 in 2004. This time, he was on the look for the next girl group. With the help of Laurieann Gibson, Doc and Johnny, he set out on a multi city search to find girls who had everything: a great voice, dancing ability and most importantly the looks. The theme song "Oh La La" was recorded by Bad Boy singer Cheri Dennis.

Results

[edit]
Competitors Result
Tyra, Paschan, Celeste Eliminated in episode 2 for failing to satisfy in terms of dancing
Leslie Eliminated in episode 2 as the judges felt that her solo aspirations and attitude would interfere with the chemistry of the future group
Michelle Left in episode 7 to go back to school
Lavantae, Patty Eliminated in episode 8 for failing to satisfy in terms of dancing and performing
Roxanne1, Erika (Bunny), Kristen, Leche, Bethany Eliminated in episode 9 for failing to satisfy in terms of dancing
Yahaira, Shantee Eliminated in episode 10 for failing to satisfy in terms of singing to a crowd
Mylah, Aileen, Martii, Francesca Were not considered good enough for the group on Season 2
Aundrea, Aubrey, Malika Kept by Diddy after episode 10 to continue for a second season. They didn't make the band but were considered good enough to have another shot at Making the Band.

^1 Roxanne was cut by Laurie Ann.

Season 2

[edit]

The band performed at the Backstreet Boys concert at the Nissan Pavilion on August 6, 2005. There were two groups. Group one, named "SHE (She Has Everything)", included Aubrey, Melissa, Denosh, Jasmine, and Kelli. Group two, named "Chain 6", included Aundrea, Dawn, Shannon, Wanita, Dominique, and Taquita. During dress rehearsal, group one was the favorite according to Dave, Laurie Anne and Doc. However, the first group was booed as they gave their performance because Denosh started off key on the a cappella which led Aubrey to go off key in the beginning of the song. The second group won, as many screaming girls yelled for them.

The song that each contestant sang in the studio "Tell Me" was actually used by Diddy on his album Press Play. Instead of one of the members of the group who originally sang the song on the show appearing on the track, the vocals are done by Christina Aguilera.

Results

[edit]
Competitors Result
Nicole Palmeri, Sammy, Tokiko Eliminated in episode 2 for failing to satisfy in terms of singing
Amber, Malika, Jennifer Eliminated in episode 3 for failing to satisfy in terms of dancing
Tiffany Withdrew in episode 4 due to a hip injury; it was later revealed that she lied about her age, using a cousin's driver's license to audition for the show. Her real name is Dav'rielle Smith
Chelsea Eliminated in episode 4 for failing to satisfy in terms of performance
Cindy, Kaui Eliminated in episode 6 for failing in terms of being able to upkeep a good level of dancing at an unprepared time
Jasmine Burke, Melissa Smith, Kelli Maria, Dominique Young, Denosh Bennet, TaQuita Thorns Failed to make it into the band in Episode 10
Aubrey, Wanita, Shannon, Dawn, Aundrea Made it into the band in Episode 10

The finale took place on Tuesday, November 15, 2005, where the 11 contestants left competed for five spots in the band. The 11 finalists; Aundrea, Aubrey, Dawn, Jasmine, TaQuita Thorns, Denosh, Wanita, Shannon, Melissa, Kelli, and Dominique, were sent home for three months, told to polish up, and return for the final stretch. When the girls returned after their three-month hiatus, they had to perform numerous acts such as radio interviews, a photo shoot, and dance all of their old dance routines. As Diddy's crew chooses the group, all of the girls went on a last dinner.

They decided on the name Danity Kane. The band's self-titled debut album was released in stores on August 22, 2006, and peaked at #1 on the Billboard charts within its first three weeks of release.

Season 3

[edit]

Episodes

[edit]
No. Description
1 The band goes to Dawn's hometown New Orleans. They see the destruction Hurricane Katrina did to New Orleans and Debbie Richard's (Dawn Richard's mother) Dance Studio. They visit Dawn's old high school and donate $5,000. They also make the Mardi Gras parades, where they ride one of the floats, throwing out Mardi Gras beads.
2 The band prepares for their first performance, at the Mercury Room during NBA All-Star Weekend in Houston, Texas. They perform a 20-minute set consisting of three songs, but only two are shown: "She Has Everything" and "Ooh La, La". Their first performance was not well received by the crowd or Diddy.
3 The girls work with vocal coach Betty Wright doing different voice training sessions. Diddy decides that Shannon needs the most work vocally. Towards the end of the show, Diddy tells Shannon that she needs to show that she can sing and not hold back. Shannon starts crying as she sings and ends up showing that she really can sing. On the other hand, Aundrea and Shannon discover a mouse in a pile of clothes. Dawn calls an exterminator to fix the "mouse problem".
4 The girls do more dance training, meet with Atlantic records staff, do more vocal training, and meet with Ms. Jones. The girls take a minute to give her a live performance, but the interview turns sour when Ms. Jones says that only Dawn, Wanita, and Aundrea can sing. Aubrey takes this to heart, and is hurt by the comment. Diddy wants to send Aubrey home because she has a cold he doesn't want the other girls to catch. Aubrey wants to stay, saying the group needs her. Later, she doesn't get to help the girls write a song Diddy wants them to make.
5 The girls finally initiated the recording sessions for their album. Diddy said that he was "Proud of the progress" that the girls had made and that they were ready to begin recording. Once in the studio they worked with Producer Scott Storch and vocal producer, Pooh Bear. The girls started on the song entitled, "Sleep On It". Dawn doesn't shine during the recording session. Her voice range is low and the song requires higher notes to be sung. She works through it and with a little encouragement form the rest of the group and Pooh Bear, she manages to sound great by the end of the episode. The girls are well on their way.
6 The band goes into the studio to record two brand new songs with Brian Cox. "One Shot" and "Ride For You". Aubrey's part of one of the verses for "Ride For You" was cut. She was very upset and thought she didn't sound bad. Diddy told her she didn't have enough emotion for the song. He said he wanted to cry when he heard the song and Aubrey's emotion on the record didn't cut it. They went to record a second song and everyone noticed that Aubrey wasn't on that song either. Dawn was very concerned with Aubrey so she goes to Johnny and tells him about the problem. Johnny says he can't do anything about it, that it's the producers song. The girls record some more parts for "Sleep On It". They meet back up with Pooh Bear and Scott Storch and recorded great music. Aundrea is having boyfriend issues.
7 While working in the studio, the girls work on a new song. A new leader rises from the group, Aundrea, when the girls choose her to lead "Hold Me Down". Also, the girls perform at Village Underground where they perform "Ride For You". But, Aundrea's boyfriend, Rudy, then breaks up with her because she did not call him the night before. All the girls are shocked to hear about this, while Aundrea gets very upset with this but the girls give their support.
8 First, the girls move into a beautiful house in Los Angeles. Then, they go and do a lot of radio interviews. They reveal their name, which is Danity Kane. Some look to be shocked by this name, and all ask what it means. Then, the girls are working on their choreography for their video. But, Laurie Ann, their choreographer, get very mad at the girls because they do not know the real version of the song for "Show Stopper". The girls then go to film their first music video which is "Show Stopper". They have to try to get the video done in one day, but they fall behind schedule. They do manage to get the video done in one day, and the video turns out great.
9 The girls must reschedule their first concert as Danity Kane after disastrous weather strikes their location. The girls have their concert the following day and perform songs from their album, including "One Shot", "Want It", "Right Now", and "Show Stopper".

Making the Band 4: Day26 and Donnie Klang

[edit]

The fourth iteration of Making the Band started on June 18, 2007, and aired for three seasons, finishing on April 23, 2009. It focused on the musical acts Day26 and Donnie Klang. Season 1 was filmed in a midtown Manhattan with interiors designed by noted visual artist and designer Ron Norsworthy.

Season 1

[edit]

Diddy begins his search for an all-male super group. This all-male band is widely believed to be the new version of 112 or New Edition as reported earlier in the season. The season began on June 18, 2007, at 9:00 p.m.[3] The band was finally made on August 26, 2007, consisting of five males from their late teens to their early-to-mid-20s.

Episodes

[edit]
No. Description
1 A panel of judges travel across the country to find men with the most potential of being in a successful men's performing group. Diddy picks 20 men and eliminates the other 38.
2 The men are split up into five groups of four and choose a song to perform for Diddy and the other judges. During an intense work out session, Dyshon gets sick and is taken to the hospital. Mike is chastised by Diddy for his lack of commitment to getting in shape, while Dan is praised for hiring a personal trainer and losing 16 lbs since the first audition. Also, Chris is told from Diddy that he is in fact the weakest singer. During a vocal session, the guys open up to each other and learns, Chris' grandfather died and he never had the chance to say goodbye and that his grandfather would have been proud of his accomplishments. Also we learn Dan is in love and Donnie has a soulful passion in his music, which he describes as "strong love".
3 Diddy gives the contestants a grueling series of tasks to take place around New York, including buying cheesecake, that must be completed as a team. The majority of the contestants complete most of the tasks, earning Diddy's congratulations. After their performances, an impressed Diddy decides to cut only four of the guys rather than ten, including men who did not participate in the tasks and men who failed to perform well.
4 Diddy surprises the contestants by revealing he will continue searching for new talent, namely four new performers. Eleven applicants impress Diddy and his team, earning a spot on the team. The new contestants are given a tour of the house, where the established competitors are caught napping. Angered at their lack of motivation, Diddy initiates a competition on the spot to determine who will remain on the show. The result is the release of a few originals.
5 The guys get off to a rocky start, as the old guys don't trust the new guys right away. They soon "warm up" to each other as they engage in a 5-mile run issued by Diddy. Robert's girlfriend calls and the conversation ends in a hostile break-up. Michael loses an amazing 11 pounds at a workout session and seems to be keeping it off with his eating habits. Ankh Ra splits the boys into groups and has them perform a song for him, and later Diddy. The main conflict is Robert losing rehearsal time due to spending an hour mending his relationship on the phone. Diddy is stumped at elimination and does not cut anyone due to the excellent performances, to the surprise of all. He then turns the tables and chooses Dan, Donnie, Robert, Dyshon, DeAngelo, and Willie to choose who goes. Only two guys, not surprisingly, both new leave, Jeremic and Devin.
6 The guys are tested in a series of physical tests including basketball and boxing (Coach Jason Strout). Jonathan has a hard time keeping up with the rest during the "losers' run", only to get his nose busted from his "brother" Qwanell. During a difficult dance routine with Laurie Ann, Jonathan realizes that maybe joining this competition wasn't his calling. So during their routine, he tells his fellow members that he will no longer be continuing on with them on their journey. While dancing solo, Julius hears a pop. He is taken to the hospital and told he has a sprained ligament. At eliminations, Donnie questions Diddy's decision on putting him in the "can't dance group", but surprisingly makes the cut. Diddy gets upset when he has to make his cut because he realizes that Laurie Ann didn't follow his orders to have the guys rehearse all weekend instead of just for eight hours the day of the cut. In the end, Diddy cuts a total of five guys: Armando, Dan, Andrae, Eric, and Curtiss. There are 12 guys left.
7 It's almost the finale & the guys are being tested on their dancing, singing, and overall performance—the total package. The boys get a new choreographer named Jamal, and they seem to like him better than Laurie Ann because he actually breaks the dance steps down slowly until each guy gets it. Julius is still frustrated about his leg injury, because there is an upcoming elimination that will include dancing, and he is forced to sit in the dance studio while the other guys learn new choreography. Donnie is also stressed about his dancing because last week Diddy stated that he can't dance at all, but Jamal says it's just in his head; don't let what other people say about white boys get to your head, and he appreciates the support from his new dance coach. He later receives dance tips from Qwanell and Carlos, which seems to have helped him boost his confidence immensely. We learn Carlos' fiancée is pregnant, but he later receives news that their baby may be born with down syndrome. As the guys get ready for elimination night, Donnie puts on an outfit, asking one of the other guys if this outfit made him look like more of a dancer. They go to Spotlight to perform for Diddy, who will be basing tonight's information on dancing, singing, performance, improvement, determination, and their past weeks here in New York. Carlos' group is first to perform, and Diddy quickly stops the dancing performance and asks the group to sing again because he doesn't think Carlos gave his best. They dance again, and he still doesn't look satisfied. Carlos can't balance his personal problems with the competition, even though he says he wants this more than anything. When Julius's group performs their dance routine, Julius is having trouble with the dance because he hasn't practiced nearly enough as his group members, and Diddy again asks his group to redo it. When Donnie performs his choreography with his group, he states that he believes what Diddy said was just a test, because if Diddy thought he couldn't dance at all, why wouldn't he have just cut him right away? He believes Diddy did it to get him to work twice as hard as his bandmates, and wants to prove him better than the guys that already left and the guys still here. Diddy seems to like his group's performance, especially Big Mike because he looks like he's enjoying dancing for Diddy. When it is time to individually perform vocally, Carlos and Julius both struggle; Diddy asked Carlos if he even knew the words of the song, and Julius began to fumble more and more as he performed. In the end, only Julius and Carlos were cut. The guys were then told to go home for two months and come back looking like superstars.

Choice of Group (when looking over head shots, in episode 7) Diddy tells each judge to pick their group. This is the result:

Bivins: Robert, Willie, Michael, Donnie

Cox (producer): Robert, Willie, Brian A., Donnie

Slam: Robert, Jeremy, Brian A., Qwanell

Ankh Ra (Vocal coach): Robert, Jeremy, Brian A., Qwanell

Jamal (choreographer): Robert, Willie, Donnie, Qwanell

8 After all the contestants arrive back from their long break at home they are immediately reunited together at the airport with all 10 members. DeAngelo comes back with his braces fully removed, and Mike "Big Mike" comes back with a brand new look and in much better shape. The guys reveal what they did over their break as some reveal they performed, worked on their voices, and took dance classes. The guys meet back up in the same park where they are informed that they will be performing at the Beacon Theatre where they will open up for New Edition in front of a sold-out crowd. The guys go to meet Ankah to practice their songs and work on their voices and are put into two groups. One group is called 5th City and the second group is called Flo. The guys are introduced at the concert by Slam and immediately the show begins. After the performance the groups are rated by the crowd with the crowd cheering the loudest for Flo. The remaining 10 people receive information that they will receive makeovers and be featured in a Sean John photo shoot. After the photo shoot the guys leave to meet Diddy for the final cut. Diddy and his entourage meet in a room to deliberate on people who could possibly make the band and he reveals his feelings towards certain people and his ideas, until he tells the camera man to turn the camera off. At the final meeting place where the guys meet Diddy who has surprisingly arrived before them are told to stand in line against the wall. Diddy begins by calling people out and making them stand in line and sending people back and forth rearranging the group until he calls for music. He tells them to sing. After all the guys sing they are immediately shocked by Diddys walking out of the room without saying anything. The episode comes to a close with a message from Diddy telling everyone he needs help deciding who the group should be. He encouraged all viewers to log onto the MTV website and vote for their favorite finalist, with the results to be revealed on the live finale.
9 On the live finale, the finalists performed a snippet of "If It Isn't Love" and a ballad version of their theme song "I Want You Exclusive". Yung Joc performed and Danity Kane made a special appearance. Dyshon was the first to leave, followed by Brian Harris. Afterwards the band was finally made and Robert, Willie, Qwanell, Brian Andrews, and Mike were called to be in the band. Donnie, who came in first, followed by Willie and Mike in the voting ballots, was offered a solo artist contract on the Bad Boy label by Diddy because he showed such persistence throughout the show.

Diddy's Call-Out

[edit]
Order Episodes
1&2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
1 Donnie Donnie Donnie Donnie Donnie Donnie Donnie Donnie
2 DeAngelo DeAngelo DeAngelo DeAngelo DeAngelo DeAngelo DeAngelo DeAngelo
3 Willie Willie Willie Willie Willie Willie Willie Willie
4 Qwanell Qwanell Qwanell Qwanell Qwanell Qwanell Qwanell Qwanell
5 Brian A. Brian A. Brian A. Brian A. Brian A. Brian A. Brian A. Brian A.
6 Michael Michael Michael Michael Michael Michael Michael Michael
7 Robert Robert Robert Robert Robert Robert Robert Robert
8 Jeremy Jeremy Jeremy Jeremy Jeremy Jeremy
9 Brian H. Brian H. Brian H. Brian H. Brian H. Brian H. Brian H. Brian H.
10 Dyshon Dyshon Dyshon Dyshon Dyshon Dyshon Dyshon Dyshon
11 Carlos Carlos Carlos Carlos Carlos Carlos
12 Julius Julius Julius Julius Julius Julius
13 Jonathan Jonathan Jonathan Jonathan Jonathan
14 Armando Armando Armando Armando Armando
15 Dan Dan Dan Dan Dan
16 Andrae Andrae Andrae
17 Curtiss Curtiss Curtiss
18 Eric Eric Eric
19 Devin Devin
20 Jeremic Jeremic
21 Lewis Lewis Lewis
22 Chris Chris Chris
23 Makio Makio
24 Tyrice Tyrice
25 Maurice Maurice
26 Anzeo Anzeo
  Given Solo Contract with Bad Boy
  Made the Band
  Eliminated
  Entered the House
  Safe
  Finalists
  Quit

Season 2

[edit]

Season 2 showed the Making the Band 4 winners and Donnie's debut albums along with Danity Kane's second album coming together. There was a "Making the Band" tour with Danity Kane, the Making the Band 4 winners, and Donnie. They all moved into the same house and record their new albums and got to know each other a lot more. This was the debut of Danity Kane's second album and Making the Band 4 winners.

The Making the Band 4 boys have a song out called "Got Me Going" (lead single off their debut album). Danity Kane has a confirmed lead single called "Damaged". Fans voted between it and another song, "Pretty Boy". Donnie Klang also has out a song called "Take You There". Both "Damaged" and "Got Me Going" were released to all digital music stores on January 29, 2008.

The group's official name was revealed as Day26[4] On the February 4, 2008 episode of TRL the boys explained that Day 26 is the band name because August 26, 2007 was the day that they became a band.[5]

Episodes

[edit]
No. Name Original airdate Description
1 The Battle of the Sexes 01/28/08 The new Band and solo artist Donnie meet in New York as they prepare to start their albums, unaware Diddy is also bringing Danity Kane into the mix.
2 B@#$%assness 02/04/08 The Band struggles to work together, Robert clashes with D. Woods, and Dawn and Que discover they have a lot in common.
3 The Battle Track 02/11/08 Diddy forces Danity Kane and the Band to square off in a competition for a new track, but the outcome surprises everyone. Meanwhile, Danity Kane celebrates their second birthday.
4 The Dating Game 02/18/08 Aubrey and Donnie go on a romantic date, but things sour when she sees him on a second date later that night. Diddy moves the groups to Miami where they move into a house together.
5 Danity Kane Attack 02/25/08 Danity Kane grows unhappy with the tracks they are being given, and they plan to confront Diddy. At home, a new den mother arrives, and the boys quickly plot to get rid of him.
6 A New Dawn 03/03/08 Dawn and Que grow closer, prompting emotions from Dawn's past to surface. Aubrey befriends Donnie, who worries his album is not going to get made.
7 Fight Club 03/10/08 Brian & Robert lash out at each other during the final week of recording and the guys worry that all of this is not meant to be.
8 Beautiful Girls 03/17/08 With Danity Kane's album photo shoot on the horizon, Diddy grows displeased with their current look, and launches a massive makeover. Later, Day26 struggles during a club performance.
9 Hitting the Road 03/23/08 With their new albums just on the horizon, the drama heats up when the acts pile on a tour bus to embark on a promotional tour where Danity Kane whips up a bet with the guys live on the radio.
10 Making the Band 4 Reunion 03/24/08 Day26, Danity Kane, & Donnie all come together to discuss their experiences and perform at the Times Square MTV Studio, plus Diddy announces all 3 acts will embark on a nationwide tour to close the show out.

Season 3

[edit]

The third season premiered on August 19, 2008, and the series finale aired on April 23, 2009. Season 3 would feature the shows stars on a U.S. Tour, the Making the Band Tour. On August 12, 2008, there was a 1-hour special that aired on MTV called "Making the Band's Greatest Hits". The special was hosted by Aubrey from Danity Kane, Donnie Klang and Robert from Day26, looking back on past events throughout the seasons of Making the Band 3 and 4.

Instead of "making a band" the show's focus turned into a The Real World-type show, focusing on friendships, relationships, and drama in and out of the studio and the industry.

Episodes

[edit]
No. Name Original airdate
1 The Notorious LAG 8/22/08
2 I Want My Money Back 8/29/08
3 Breakdown 9/05/08
4 Showtime NYC 9/12/08
5 Hit the Road 9/19/08
6 Three-way Split 9/26/08
7 Sex and the Diddy 10/03/08
8 Damaged 10/10/08
9 Live Finale 10/17/08
10 London Bridges Falling Down 2/13/09
11 Start Spreading the News 2/20/09
12 How You Gonna Fix It 2/26/09
13 Everyday I'm Hustling 3/05/09
14 Leader of the Pack 3/13/09
15 The Curse 3/19/09
16 Spiral 3/27/09
17 Fight Night 4/02/09
18 Judgement Day 4/09/09
19 Lows on the High Seas 4/16/09
20 The Finale Chapter 4/23/09

Making His Band

[edit]

Diddy announced that he was searching for musicians for a Making the Band spin-off titled Making His Band,[6] where he would be searching for guitarists, drummers, backup singers, etc. to form his own personal live band. This new season premiered on July 27, 2009.

On September 2, 2009, this series was placed on hiatus. On September 12, 2009, the show returned and aired the last five episodes on a new Saturday time slot. Reasoning for this included a delay in Diddy's album release date as well as generally low ratings overall for the program.

Awards

[edit]

In 2010, Making His Band was nominated for a GLAAD Media Award for "Outstanding Reality Program" during the 21st GLAAD Media Awards.[7]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Making the Band

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Making the Band is an American series that follows the process of forming musical groups through open auditions, rigorous training, and competitive eliminations, highlighting the challenges of the music industry. The show premiered on ABC on March 24, 2000, under the guidance of music manager , who assembled the from thousands of applicants across three seasons that aired from 2000 to 2002, with the third season moving to in 2001. The series continued on in 2002, where hip-hop entrepreneur Sean "Diddy" Combs took over as the central figure, producing three additional iterations through 2009 that created the hip-hop ensemble , the , the R&B , and solo artist . Produced by Bunim-Murray Productions—the team behind The Real World—the series adopted a documentary-style format, capturing raw interpersonal drama, performance critiques, and behind-the-scenes struggles as contestants vied for spots in the groups. Each season emphasized different musical genres, starting with pop for O-Town, shifting to hip-hop for Da Band in Making the Band 2 (2002–2004), R&B and pop for Danity Kane in Making the Band 3 (2005–2006), and contemporary R&B for Day26 and Donnie Klang in Making the Band 4 (2007–2009). Notable moments included intense group living arrangements and Combs' strict mentorship, often encapsulated in his catchphrase "Take that, take that." The series had a significant impact on reality television, pioneering the talent competition format on broadcast networks just months before Survivor and influencing later shows like American Idol. It launched several chart-topping acts, with O-Town achieving multi-platinum success, Danity Kane topping the twice, and Day26 debuting at number one. A reboot was announced for in 2020 with Combs' involvement and social media casting, but production was halted by the and did not materialize.

Overview

Concept and Format

Making the Band is a series centered on the formation of musical groups through a competitive process involving open auditions, intensive training, group living arrangements, performance challenges, and progressive eliminations, all overseen by a prominent mentor. The format combines documentary-style footage of contestants' daily lives and interpersonal conflicts with structured competitions to evaluate talent and compatibility, culminating in the selection of final group members who then pursue recording careers under the mentor's label. The audition process typically begins with nationwide open calls, where thousands of aspiring performers submit videos or attend in-person tryouts in multiple cities, focusing on skills in singing, rapping, dancing, and overall artistry. In the inaugural iteration, producer organized auditions across eight U.S. cities in 1999, screening hundreds to select 25 semifinalists who advanced to a "boot camp" phase of group evaluations and individual assessments. This was narrowed to eight finalists through initial cuts, followed by further challenges emphasizing vocal ability, dance proficiency, personality, and market potential, before finalizing the five-member O-Town. Judging criteria across iterations prioritize technical skills, stage presence, adaptability to , and commercial viability, with the mentor exercising sole authority via "call-outs"—public announcements during which contestants learn of advancements or eliminations based on performance reviews and observed interactions. Challenges include live performances, rehearsals, songwriting tasks, and tests to simulate professional demands, often amplifying from conflicts or underperformance. The series evolved from its boy band origins under Pearlman to iterations led by on , adapting the format to hip-hop and R&B ensembles like , where auditions incorporated rapping prowess and cultural authenticity alongside traditional evaluations, maintaining multi-stage eliminations until a core group emerged. Subsequent seasons extended this structure to all-female acts such as , emphasizing vocal harmonies and visual appeal; R&B male groups like ; solo prospects including ; and live touring bands in Making His Band, each retaining the mentor-driven selection and post-formation career monitoring while tailoring challenges to genre-specific competencies.

Production and Broadcast History

Making the Band was created by and initially produced by Bunim/Murray Productions in association with Trans Continental Pictures for broadcast on ABC, with music industry executive serving as the primary mentor. The series premiered on March 24, 2000, as part of ABC's TGIF lineup, focusing on the formation of the O-Town. After the first season drew strong viewership of around 7 million, season 2 experienced a decline to 4.7 million, leading ABC to cancel the show. MTV acquired the series in late 2001, beginning with 35 half-hour reruns and commissioning 10 new episodes that aired starting January 4, 2002, at a production cost in the low six figures per episode. This shift aligned the program with 's core 12-to-24-year-old demographic and allowed for continued documentation of O-Town's activities. Key figures in production included Bunim/Murray founders and , alongside Mok as a lead from MTV Productions. The transition to the hip-hop focused Da Band iteration in 2002 marked the involvement of Bad Boy Films, with Sean Combs (Diddy) replacing Pearlman as mentor and executive producer. This season premiered on October 19, 2002, on MTV. The series continued on MTV through subsequent iterations, spanning a total of 12 seasons and 142 episodes from 2000 to 2009, with each episode running approximately 60 minutes. In July 2019, MTV and Combs announced plans to revive Making the Band for a 2020 premiere, emphasizing a modern, social media-integrated format. However, the final in-person auditions scheduled for March 2020 were canceled amid the , leading to an indefinite postponement; the revival never aired. As of 2025, no additional seasons have been produced since the original run concluded in 2009.

O-Town Iteration (2000–2002)

Season 1

The first season of Making the Band premiered on ABC on March 24, 2000. It chronicled music manager Lou Pearlman's nationwide talent search, which began in 1999 and drew thousands of applicants through open auditions in cities across the . From these, 25 semifinalists were selected and brought to , where they underwent initial evaluations. The field was narrowed to 12 contestants who moved into a shared house for an intensive bootcamp focused on vocal training, dance rehearsals, and group dynamics. The contestants faced rigorous sessions with vocal coaches and choreographers, emphasizing performance skills, alongside interpersonal challenges from living together and competing for spots. Progressive eliminations occurred based on critiques from Pearlman and his team, reducing the group through performances and chemistry assessments. Midway through, Ikaika Kahoano departed, and Dan Miller was added as a replacement. The season concluded in July 2000 with the formation of the O-Town, consisting of , Erik-Michael Estrada, Trevor Penick, Jacob Underwood, and Dan Miller. The group signed to Pearlman's Trans Continental Records, setting the stage for their professional debut.

Seasons 2–3

Season 2 of Making the Band, which aired in as a crossover between ABC and , consisted of 10 episodes that documented O-Town's transition from newly formed group to recording artists under their new label. Following their formation from the previous season's auditions, the band signed with , founded by , allowing them to begin professional recording sessions for their debut album. The episodes captured the group's intensive studio work, including vocal coaching and track selection, as they prepared material like "Liquid Dreams" and "All or Nothing." This period highlighted their career development through media training sessions designed to polish their public image and interview skills for upcoming promotions. The debut album, , was released on January 23, 2001, and debuted at number 5 on the chart, selling over 150,000 copies in its first week. Key promotional activities included a high-profile performance at the Pageant, where technical issues with their earpieces led to an off-key rendition of "Liquid Dreams," exposing early challenges in live settings. Contract negotiations also featured prominently, with tensions arising over financial terms and individual member opportunities, such as discussions around potential solo pursuits that strained group dynamics. These episodes underscored the band's rapid ascent, with the album eventually achieving certification and contributing to total O-Town sales exceeding 1 million units in the United States. Season 3, airing exclusively on in 2002 with 10 episodes, shifted focus to O-Town's maturing career, including the recording of their second album, O2, amid escalating professional demands. The group navigated tour preparations as opening act for ' , which began in late 2001 and extended into 2002, providing exposure to large audiences while testing their endurance through grueling schedules. A notable event was their performance on 's , boosting visibility for singles like "We Fit Together." Group tensions intensified over solo opportunities, particularly for member , who explored acting roles, leading to internal conflicts about balancing collective and individual ambitions. Media training continued to address these issues, emphasizing unity in public appearances. Amid these developments, hints of dissolution emerged due to manager Lou Pearlman's mounting financial troubles, including investigations into Trans Continental Records by authorities in early 2002. The band sought greater independence, eventually parting ways with Pearlman later that year to manage their affairs autonomously, allowing O2—released on November 11, 2002—to peak at number 28 on the without his direct involvement. This season captured the promotional push for the sophomore album, including music video shoots and fan engagements, while illustrating the precarious balance of fame and internal strife that foreshadowed the group's challenges ahead.

Da Band Iteration (2002–2004)

Season 1

The first season of Making the Band 2, focusing on the formation of a hip-hop ensemble under Sean "Diddy" Combs, premiered on on October 19, 2002, and consisted of 20 episodes airing weekly through March 2003. The season documented open auditions across the , starting with over 20,000 applicants in cities including New York, , and , as well as submissions from established artists seeking a group opportunity. Producers initially selected around 40 contestants for initial evaluations in New York, where Combs and his team, including Bad Boy A&R , assessed rap skills, stage presence, and originality through freestyle battles and performances. The process involved intense challenges, such as writing original verses on the spot and group chemistry tests, with Combs emphasizing a diverse hip-hop sound blending rap, R&B, and influences. Eliminations reduced the pool progressively, with notable moments including heated critiques and contestants' personal stories, like Dylan Dilinjah's legal troubles. Vocal coach and choreographer assisted in refining performances. By the season finale in early 2003, Combs selected six members for : Lynn "Babs" Brazil, George "Chopper" Young, Dylan John (Dylan Dilinjah), Rodney "E. Ness" Brown, Frederick "Freddy P" Perrino, and Sara Stokes (Sara Rivers), signing them to . The group relocated to a shared house in New York to begin collaborative work.

Season 2

The second season of Making the Band 2 premiered on on June 18, 2003, and spanned 11 episodes through August 2003. Now focusing on the newly formed , the season captured their transition to professional recording artists at Bad Boy Studios, highlighting interpersonal dynamics, creative clashes, and Combs' strict oversight. The members, comprising Babs, Chopper, Dylan Dilinjah, E. Ness, Freddy P, and Sara Stokes, underwent "Hell Week"—an intensive regimen of writing sessions, vocal training, and choreography led by —to develop material for their debut album. Key events included conflicts over songwriting credits, with tensions between rapper-heavy members and Sara's R&B style, as well as logistical challenges like Dylan's absenteeism due to personal issues. Combs intervened with "take that, take that" critiques during studio evaluations, pushing for a cohesive hip-hop sound. The season culminated in the recording and release of their debut single "Bad Boyz" in June 2003, produced by Combs, which peaked at #48 on the Hot 100. Da Band's self-titled album, Too Hot for TV, was released on July 15, 2003, via Bad Boy/Universal, debuting at #3 on the and selling over 125,000 copies in its first week, according to Nielsen SoundScan. The album featured tracks like "What We Want" and collaborations with Bad Boy artists, marking their entry into the music industry.

Season 3

The third and final season of Making the Band 2 premiered on on March 4, 2004, and consisted of 10 episodes airing through May 2004. The season followed —Babs, Chopper, Dylan Dilinjah, E. Ness, Freddy P, and Sara Stokes—as they promoted Too Hot for TV through nationwide tours, media appearances, and live performances, while navigating growing frustrations with group dynamics and Bad Boy management. Combs tasked them with building fan engagement, including radio interviews and club shows, but internal conflicts escalated, such as disputes over finances and solo aspirations. Episodes highlighted tour mishaps, like equipment failures and member illnesses during stops in cities including and , alongside Combs' evaluations of their stage energy and sales performance. The achieved platinum certification by the RIAA in September 2004, driven by "Bad Boyz" and international remixes, but the group faced creative stagnation. By the season finale, Combs disbanded in May 2004, citing irreconcilable differences and the challenges of maintaining a hip-hop ensemble, allowing members to pursue solo careers. This marked the end of the iteration, with the group releasing no further material together.

Danity Kane Iteration (2005–2007)

Season 1

The first season of Making the Band 3, focused on forming an all-female R&B group, premiered on on , 2005, and consisted of 11 episodes airing through May 2005. The season documented open auditions for female singers, drawing thousands of applicants through calls in cities including New York, , and , as well as online submissions. Producers selected 20 finalists who were flown to for a rigorous bootcamp involving vocal training, dance rehearsals, and evaluations by Sean "Diddy" Combs and his team, including vocal coach Doc Holiday and choreographer . Combs emphasized teamwork, vocal harmony, and stage presence, eliminating contestants progressively based on individual and group performances. Challenges included living arrangements in a shared house, interpersonal conflicts, and high-pressure critiques. The season narrowed the field to 11 semi-finalists before final cuts, with Combs selecting five members—Aundrea Fimbres, Aubrey O'Day, Wanita "D. Woods" Woodgett, Dawn Richard, and Shannon Bex—to form the group on the finale. The episode highlighted the contestants' diverse backgrounds and the competitive process, setting the stage for the group's development.

Season 2

The second season of Making the Band 3 premiered on on October 6, 2005, and spanned 9 episodes through December 2005. Focusing on the newly formed five-member , the season covered their relocation to , group naming process—settling on "" inspired by Dawn Richard's drawings—and initial recording sessions for their debut album under . Combs provided strict mentorship, including "Diddy Runs" for physical fitness and feedback sessions on songwriting, styling, and professionalism. Key events included vocal and dance training, track selection with producers like and , and early tensions over roles and personalities, such as Aubrey O'Day's bold style clashing with others. The group signed to Bad Boy and prepared their lead single "Show Stopper," released in August 2006 but teased during the season. Episodes captured promotional photo shoots, wardrobe fittings, and Combs' emphasis on unity amid the pressures of fame. The season ended with the group solidifying their identity and beginning rehearsals for live performances.

Season 3

The third season of Making the Band 3 premiered on on July 27, 2006, and consisted of 12 episodes airing through August 10, 2006. This season chronicled the completion of Danity Kane's self-titled debut album, music video production for "Show Stopper," and their first live performances, while addressing ongoing group dynamics and Combs' oversight at . The album, released on August 22, 2006, via Bad Boy/Atlantic Records, debuted at number one on the chart, selling 235,000 copies in its first week according to Nielsen SoundScan. It was certified by the RIAA in November 2006. Episodes featured studio sessions, the video shoot directed by , and challenges like a rained-out concert rescheduling, culminating in their TRL debut and tour preparations. Internal conflicts, including creative differences and personal ambitions, were highlighted, foreshadowing future tensions. The season emphasized the group's rapid rise, with Combs praising their potential while stressing discipline.

Day26 and Donnie Klang Iteration (2007–2009)

Season 1

The first season of Making the Band's and iteration premiered on on June 18, 2007, and spanned 12 episodes. The season documented simultaneous auditions for a new R&B and a separate search for a solo male artist, drawing thousands of applicants through open calls in cities including New York, , , and Charlotte, as well as online video submissions. From these, producers narrowed the field to 25 male contestants for the boy band competition, who were brought to New York for initial evaluations by Sean "Diddy" Combs and his team. The contestants underwent an intensive R&B vocal and bootcamp in , where Combs emphasized discipline and professionalism, often comparing the group to his previous Making the Band projects like and to highlight the high standards required. Challenges included rigorous training sessions led by vocal coach Ankh-Ra Amenhotep and choreographer , with Combs using his device to send real-time reports and feedback during evaluations. Eliminations occurred progressively through these sessions, reducing the 25 to a final eight before further cuts based on performance and group chemistry. Amid the boy band auditions, the season briefly integrated ongoing issues from the prior iteration. In October 2007, Combs finalized the boy band with members Robert Adam "Big Rob" Curry, , Qwanell Mosley, Brian Angel, and Michael "Mikey" McCluney, signing them to . Separately, emerged from the solo artist search, earning a with Bad Boy as a standalone act due to his standout persistence and talent.

Season 2

The second season of Making the Band 4, focusing on the newly formed group and solo artist , premiered on on January 28, 2008, and consisted of 12 episodes airing weekly through April 2008. This season shifted from the audition process of the previous year to the challenges of recording debut projects under "Diddy" Combs' supervision at , highlighting the transition from formation to professional output. , comprising Brian Angel, Robert "Big Rob" Curry, , Qwanell Mosley, and Michael "Big Mike" McCluney—who had emerged as winners from the prior season's talent search—began studio sessions for their self-titled debut album, while Klang prepared tracks for his solo effort. The episodes captured the group's immersion in the music industry, including vocal coaching, track selection, and Combs' rigorous feedback sessions known as "Diddy's Call-Outs," where he critiqued performances and urged improvements in stage presence and cohesion. A pivotal moment came with the release of Day26's "Got Me Going," which debuted digitally in 2008 during the season finale and served as the group's introduction to audiences. The track, produced by and , emphasized the group's harmonious R&B style and was accompanied by a shot in , featuring choreographed routines that showcased their synchronized . Internally, tensions arose from contrasting member styles, such as Mosley's emphasis on flashy showmanship and skills clashing with McCluney's focus on raw vocal power, leading to debates over song arrangements and performance roles. Meanwhile, Klang faced solo struggles, including difficulties adapting to without group support and navigating Combs' demands for a distinctive sound amid delays in finalizing his material. These dynamics were amplified during joint rehearsals with labelmates, underscoring the competitive environment at Bad Boy. The season culminated in promotional milestones, including Day26's preparation for the Bad Boy Tour, a joint trek launching in April 2008 alongside and Klang, with special guest , which aimed to build live performance experience across U.S. arenas. Day26's self-titled , released on March 25, 2008, via Bad Boy/, debuted at number one on the and charts, selling 190,000 copies in its first week according to Nielsen SoundScan data. The group earned a nomination for Best Group at the 2008 , recognizing their rapid rise, and began international promotion efforts, including appearances in to expand their fanbase beyond the U.S. market. Klang's Just a Rolling Stone remained in during this period, with sessions continuing into later months before its September release.

Season 3

The third season of Making the Band 4, which focused exclusively on and solo artist following the dissolution of , premiered on on August 19, 2008, and consisted of 13 episodes airing through April 23, 2009. The season chronicled the group's preparation for their sophomore album and international touring commitments, while also highlighting Klang's post-debut challenges under . It emphasized internal dynamics, professional evaluations by Sean "Diddy" Combs, and the evolving professional paths of both acts as they navigated fame and contractual obligations. Day26's second album, Forever in a Day, was released on April 14, 2009, via Bad Boy Records and Atlantic Records, debuting at number 2 on the Billboard 200 chart with first-week sales of 113,000 copies. The record featured lead singles like "Since You've Been Gone" and "Imma Put It on Her," produced by Combs and collaborators including Mario Winans, and represented the group's attempt to build on their self-titled debut's success amid growing tensions. Meanwhile, Donnie Klang's debut album Just a Rolling Stone had been released earlier on September 2, 2008, also through Bad Boy and Atlantic, debuting at number 19 on the Billboard 200 and number 5 on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart, but achieving only modest overall sales of approximately 38,000 units. The season captured Klang's promotional struggles, including low radio play and limited marketing support, which contributed to the album's underwhelming commercial performance. Key events in the season included Day26's European tour, which served as a testing ground for their cohesion and stage presence under Combs' scrutiny, with episodes documenting performances in cities like and the logistical challenges of international travel. Combs conducted rigorous evaluations throughout, assessing vocal performances, , and group unity, ultimately pushing the members toward greater independence by encouraging solo explorations while warning of the risks of fracturing the band. A significant shift occurred with member replacement, as Qwanell "Que" Mosley was removed from Day26 in December 2009 due to ongoing conflicts with his bandmates and , an event foreshadowed in the season's depictions of interpersonal friction during rehearsals and travel. The season delved into considerable drama, including contract disputes over royalties, creative control, and promotional commitments, which strained relationships with Bad Boy and highlighted the group's frustrations with delayed projects. Solo ambitions added to the tension, particularly Willie Taylor's pursuit of an R&B solo career, as he balanced group duties with individual songwriting and recording sessions that occasionally clashed with Day26's schedule. These elements culminated in final group performances, such as live showcases and tour closers, where Combs delivered candid feedback on their potential longevity. By the season's end, both acts faced pivotal outcomes: and were released from their Bad Boy contracts in late 2009, marking the conclusion of direct ties to the Making the Band series and allowing them to pursue independent ventures amid unresolved group dynamics. This release underscored the season's themes of transition, as Combs shifted focus away from the franchise's group formations toward broader entrepreneurial guidance.

Making His Band (2009)

Auditions and Formation

"Making His Band" premiered on on July 27, 2009, as a spin-off from the long-running "Making the Band" series, shifting the focus from forming vocal groups to assembling a live touring band for Sean "Diddy" Combs. The season, which consisted of 10 episodes airing through October 10, 2009, documented Combs' nationwide search for talented musicians to support his electro-hip-hop album and its accompanying tour. Unlike prior iterations that emphasized vocal ensembles like or , this edition targeted instrumentalists and backup performers to create a versatile live ensemble. Auditions kicked off with open calls in multiple cities, including , , , and , where aspiring musicians lined up to demonstrate their skills. The 90-minute premiere episode featured initial try-outs for roles such as drummers, DJs, guitarists, bassists, keyboardists, and backup vocalists, with Combs and a panel of judges—including choreographer Laurie Ann Gibson, vocal coach , and producers Rob Lewis and Nisan Stewart—evaluating candidates on technical proficiency, energy, and compatibility. Applicants performed instrument demos and participated in impromptu jam sessions, testing their ability to adapt to Combs' high-energy style and diverse musical influences blending hip-hop, , and . Combs stressed the importance of versatility, loyalty, and strong stage presence over individual , seeking performers who could seamlessly integrate into his touring setup and support acts from previous "Making the Band" projects. Challenges during the audition process included harsh critiques from the judges, who pushed candidates to showcase not only raw talent but also the drive to endure rigorous rehearsals and travel demands. Finalists advanced to a shared in for further evaluations, where group dynamics and collaborative performances determined selections. By the second episode, "Back to Basics" (aired 3, 2009), initial cuts had been made, narrowing the pool to promising talents who underwent intensified training and jam sessions to build cohesion. Subsequent episodes like "That 80s Episode" ( 10, 2009) and "Singers and Showdowns" ( 17, 2009) highlighted themed challenges and vocal competitions, leading to progressive selections that partially assembled the band by late 2009. This formation process underscored Combs' vision for a tight-knit unit capable of elevating his live shows, though the full lineup remained in flux amid ongoing evaluations.

Hiatus and Cancellation

Following the airing of its first five episodes from July 27 to August 24, 2009, Making His Band was placed on indefinite hiatus by on September 2, 2009, and removed from its regular Monday night slot. The network replaced it with reruns of for the remainder of September, though announced via that the series would resume on September 12 in a new Saturday night time slot. The five remaining episodes aired on Saturdays from September 12 to October 10, 2009, continuing the evaluations and culminating in a 30-minute finale that selected individual musicians, including Brockett Parsons, though no complete touring band was debuted and no planned album was produced or released. The project was ultimately canceled after its single season, with low ratings cited as a key factor in MTV's decision to end production. The selected musicians dispersed to pursue session work, solo projects, or other opportunities in the music industry. This outcome occurred amid significant changes at , as Combs ended his distribution partnership with (a subsidiary) in September 2009 and signed a new deal with under . The shift redirected Combs' priorities toward his collaborative project and the accompanying Last Train to Paris album, released in May 2010, effectively sidelining the live band initiative.

Legacy and Impact

Awards and Recognition

The Making the Band series received a nomination for the 2010 in the Outstanding Reality Program category for its iteration Making His Band. Among the groups formed through the series, earned the 2001 Teen Choice Award for Choice Breakout Artist. Da Band's debut album Too Hot for TV (2003) achieved gold certification from the RIAA, denoting shipments of over 500,000 units. and both received nominations for Best Group at the 2008 . The franchise is recognized for launching five musical acts—O-Town, Da Band, Danity Kane, Day26, and Donnie Klang—and pioneering the format for reality music competition shows, influencing later programs such as The Voice.

Post-Series Developments and Reunions

Following the conclusion of the series, the groups and artists formed through Making the Band experienced varied trajectories, marked by disbandments, solo pursuits, partial reformations, and occasional revivals, though none achieved the same level of mainstream success as during their formative seasons. , the inaugural group from the ABC iteration, disbanded in 2003 after releasing two albums, with members pursuing individual endeavors in music and entertainment. The group reunited in 2014 for the independent album Lines & Circles, which featured a mix of pop and R&B tracks and was released through All About the Melody, marking their return to performing after over a apart. In early 2025, amid public confusion linking them to later Making the Band seasons produced by , members publicly distanced themselves, emphasizing that their formation predated Combs' involvement and that they had no personal or professional ties to him; vocalist Jacob Underwood stated, "Of all the bands in Making the Band, we're the only one not tied to him," while the group reported career setbacks including canceled bookings due to the misassociation. Da Band, assembled in season 2 and dissolved by Combs in 2004 after their debut album Too Hot for TV, saw members transition to solo projects with limited group activity thereafter, including sporadic one-off performances at events celebrating early hip-hop. Post-disbandment, vocalist Sara Stokes shifted focus to , appearing in independent films and theater productions while maintaining a low-profile presence in R&B circles. Rapper Dylan Dilinjah pivoted to music production, working behind the scenes on tracks for emerging artists in the New York hip-hop scene. By 2025, amid reflections on the group's legacy, Stokes continued her pursuits, including roles in short-form dramas, while Dilinjah contributed to production credits on underground reggae-infused projects, though no full reunions materialized. Danity Kane, formed in season 3, officially disbanded in 2009 following internal conflicts and label issues, with members launching solo careers in music and television. In 2013, , , and reunited as a trio for live performances and recording sessions, releasing the independent album in October 2014 as a farewell project despite ongoing tensions that led to another split shortly after; the album debuted at number 23 on the , featuring tracks like "Lemonade" that revisited their pop-R&B sound. Original member , who had rejoined for the 2013 revival, announced her retirement from music in May 2014 during a tour stop in , citing a desire to focus on marriage and starting a family, effectively stepping away from the industry thereafter. In October 2025, following Combs' sentencing, O'Day, , and Fimbres announced a reunion tour titled "The Untold Chapter," consisting of nine shows starting in December 2025, without Richard or . Day26, the male R&B group from season 4, split in 2012 amid creative differences and label disputes, with members like pursuing solo ventures; Taylor released singles such as "Soakin Wet" and "Jackpot" in the ensuing years, achieving modest success on urban radio charts and building a fanbase through independent releases. The group staged partial reunions for anniversaries in 2017 and 2022, but achieved a full five-member in early 2025, appearing on on March 6 to promote their third studio album and deliver their first live performance together in 15 years, signaling a renewed focus on touring and new music. Donnie Klang, the solo artist crowned from season 4, maintained a modest career post-2008 debut album Just a , releasing independent singles and collaborating on R&B tracks through the while making guest appearances on television shows like and reality series focused on retrospectives. Without major group affiliations, Klang shifted toward entrepreneurial roles, founding his own in the mid-2010s and contributing vocals to background projects for other artists. The 2009 iteration, Making His Band, failed to produce a formal group due to creative and logistical challenges, leading to its cancellation after one season; contestants, including vocalists like Megn and Venzella Joy, dispersed into behind-the-scenes roles in the music industry, such as session singers, songwriting assistants, and production support for R&B acts, though none emerged as prominent front-facing figures.

Controversies

The reality series Making the Band has faced significant criticism for the exploitative conditions imposed on contestants, particularly in its early seasons. Participants reported grueling physical and emotional demands, such as the infamous task in season 2 where members were required to walk over five miles at night to retrieve cheesecake from in , resulting in blisters and exhaustion that one contestant described as making their "feet feel broken." These challenges were presented as tests of dedication but contributed to an environment of and constant , with producers waking groups in the middle of the night for impromptu rehearsals that could last days. Additionally, the first season's formation of was marred by manager Lou Pearlman's fraudulent practices; Pearlman, who controlled the group, was charged in 2007 and convicted in 2008 of , , and false for running a that defrauded investors of over $300 million, while underpaying band members and misrepresenting their earnings. members later sued Pearlman for and , highlighting how contestants provided unpaid labor under false promises of equitable compensation. Internal conflicts within formed groups further fueled controversies, including allegations of and in Danity Kane's dynamics during seasons 3 and 4. was fired in the season 3 finale for what Combs described as a "bad attitude," amid rumors of interpersonal and her perceived favoritism, which group members later attributed to sexist control rather than merit. In a 2018 interview, surviving members , , and accused Combs of making racist and sexist remarks, such as commenting on their bodies and requiring them to "look a certain way" to appeal to executives, contributing to an atmosphere of and unequal treatment. For , formed in season 4, contract disputes with led to public complaints of unfair terms; members described the agreements as a "garbage contract" that favored the label, resulting in limited royalties and creative control, and the group parted ways with Bad Boy in 2009 before announcing a breakup in 2012 amid ongoing financial grievances. In 2025, reiterated that the show was structured for artists' failure, with predatory clauses that exploited their inexperience. Sean Combs' federal charges from 2023 to 2025 intensified scrutiny of the series, as his September 2024 for , , and transportation for —stemming from allegations dating back decades—prompted former contestants to share testimonies of abuse. , a member, filed a 2024 lawsuit claiming Combs sexually assaulted her multiple times and witnessed him physically abusing , while also alleging withheld wages and royalties under Bad Boy contracts. During Combs' 2025 trial, where he was acquitted of the most serious charges but convicted on two counts of prostitution-related offenses, Richard testified about the show's dehumanizing environment, including Combs dragging Ventura by her hair. In response, groups like publicly distanced themselves in January 2025, emphasizing no ongoing ties to Combs despite the show's association, and members echoed sentiments of betrayal over unfulfilled promises. announced a 2025 reunion tour focused on revealing "the truth" about their experiences, signaling severed connections post-Combs' legal woes. Broader critiques have portrayed Making the Band as emblematic of manufactured pop's pitfalls, where the emphasis on rapid group assembly prioritized spectacle over sustainable careers, leading to high turnover and financial instability for participants. Diversity shortcomings were highlighted in reports of the show's predominantly urban focus excluding broader representation, with Combs' comments reinforcing racial and biases in casting and treatment. A planned 2019 revival, announced by and Combs for a 2020 premiere emphasizing auditions, never materialized, attributed to shifting priorities amid emerging scandals and industry changes. By 2025, renewed scrutiny through trial coverage and analyses like those in The Atlantic has cast the series as a of label exploitation, with no new revivals announced amid Combs' conviction and ongoing civil suits.

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  16. https://www.realityblurred.com/realitytv/2000/07/otown-formed-lou-pearlman-announces-new-boy-band/
  17. https://bestsellingalbums.org/artist/9968
  18. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0236907/episodes/?season=3
  19. https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/music/music-news/o-town-making-the-band-diddy-1236107176/
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  21. https://www2.ljworld.com/news/2002/feb/23/boy_bands_impresario/
  22. https://www.vanityfair.com/news/2007/11/pearlman200711
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  24. https://www.vibe.com/lists/making-the-bands-da-band-where-are-they-now/
  25. https://www.essence.com/entertainment/where-are-they-now-da-band/
  26. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0348963/episodes/?season=2
  27. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOEGQX-uQEmWaXV7MQAN25cBtMm8TyOjo
  28. https://www.realitytvworld.com/news/third-season-of-mtv-making-band-2-premiering-march-4-2318.php
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  31. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLcOiFmyVtM9K5Vo8taesQNF6lzCRo2JY6
  32. https://www.episodate.com/tv-show/making-the-band-3?season=2
  33. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0442639/episodes/?season=3
  34. https://www.billboard.com/charts/billboard-200/2006-09-09
  35. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1001036/
  36. https://movieweb.com/mtv-and-sean-combs-scouting-nationwide-for-making-the-band-4/
  37. https://singersroom.com/content/2007-06-15/diddy-creates-ultimate-male-rb-group-in-making-the-band-4/
  38. https://www.thefutoncritic.com/showatch/making-the-band/
  39. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1001036/episodes/?season=2
  40. https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/day26-upends-danity-kane-to-debut-at-no-1-1045995/
  41. https://www.bet.com/article/hkhyxs/bet-awards-2008-winners-nominees
  42. https://www.tvtango.com/series/making_the_band_4/episodes/sort/rating/type/desc?max_per_page=25
  43. https://www.metacritic.com/tv/making-the-band-4/season-3/
  44. https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/hannah-montana-movie-soundtrack-moves-to-no-1-1271591/
  45. https://www.billboard.com/artist/day26/
  46. https://www.ukmix.org/forum/chart-discussion/chart-analysis/68177-the-ukmix-soundscan-database
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  49. https://www.vibe.com/news/entertainment/day-26-tried-everything-booting-que-49286/
  50. https://www.vibe.com/music/music-news/day26-parts-ways-diddys-bad-boy-records-48446/
  51. https://www.vibe.com/news/entertainment/willie-taylor-making-the-band-artists-fail-1234650384/
  52. https://www.realityblurred.com/realitytv/topic/making-the-band/making-the-band-4/
  53. http://thefutoncritic.com/showatch.aspx?id=Making_His_Band
  54. https://www.tvmaze.com/shows/38056/making-his-band
  55. https://gameshows.fandom.com/wiki/Making_His_Band
  56. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1525510/episodes
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  58. https://www.episodate.com/tv-show/making-his-band?season=1
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  68. https://tonydofat.com/about.html
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