The Spice Girls’ first number-one single in the UK was “Wannabe.” Released in July 1996, it was the group’s debut single and quickly became their breakthrough hit, reaching the top of the UK Singles Chart after initially entering at number three.
“Wannabe” introduced the five-member lineup—Victoria Adams, Melanie Brown, Emma Bunton, Melanie Chisholm and Geri Halliwell—to a mass audience. Its energetic production, memorable “zig-a-zig-ah” hook and message about friendship helped establish the group’s “Girl Power” identity. The song later topped charts in dozens of countries and became one of the defining pop singles of the 1990s.
A common mix-up is “2 Become 1,” which was the Spice Girls’ first Christmas number one in the UK and their third consecutive overall number one. “Say You’ll Be There” was their second UK chart-topper, while “Stop” was released later and peaked at number two. The group ultimately achieved nine UK number-one singles during their original run.