The Pussycat Dolls
Biography
The Pussycat Dolls was an American girl group and dance ensemble founded in Los Angeles, California, by choreographer Robin Antin in 1995 as a burlesque troupe. After gaining media attention, Antin negotiated a record deal with Interscope Geffen A&M Records in 2003, transforming the group into a music act. The initial recording group consisted of Nicole Scherzinger, Carmit Bachar, Ashley Roberts, Jessica Sutta, Melody Thornton, and Kimberly Wyatt. Their debut single, "Sway," was featured on the soundtrack of the 2004 film Shall We Dance?.
2005–2007: PCD and Mainstream Success
The Pussycat Dolls achieved worldwide success with their debut album PCD, released in September 2005. The album was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in New Zealand and entering the top ten in several other countries. The lead single, "Don't Cha," featuring Busta Rhymes, became a global hit, reaching number two on the US Billboard Hot 100. It was followed by the successful singles "Stickwitu," which earned a Grammy Award nomination, "Beep," and "Buttons." The album has sold over 9 million copies worldwide to date. The group's success led to a variety of related ventures, including a reality television series, a Las Vegas act, and merchandise.
2008–2010: Doll Domination and Disbandment
In March 2008, Carmit Bachar departed from the group. The remaining five members released their second and final studio album, Doll Domination, in 2008. The album featured hit singles such as "When I Grow Up," "I Hate This Part," and "Jai Ho! (You Are My Destiny)". However, the emphasis on lead singer Nicole Scherzinger reportedly caused internal conflict within the group. Following the conclusion of their Doll Domination World Tour in 2009, the group went on hiatus. By 2010, Ashley Roberts, Jessica Sutta, Kimberly Wyatt, and Melody Thornton had all announced their departures, and the group officially disbanded.
2019–2022: Reunion and Second Disbandment
In November 2019, it was announced that Scherzinger, Bachar, Roberts, Sutta, and Wyatt were reuniting for a tour and new music; Melody Thornton did not return. They released a new single, "React," in February 2020. A reunion tour was planned for 2020 but was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In January 2022, Scherzinger announced the cancellation of the tour, citing "evolving circumstances surrounding the pandemic." This announcement led to public disagreement and a legal dispute between Scherzinger and group founder Robin Antin, which was later settled. The planned reunion ultimately fell apart.