The Girl in the Band cover art

The Girl in the Band

Bardot – a cautionary tale

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The Girl in the Band

By: Belinda Chapple, Bianca Ross
Narrated by: Belinda Chapple
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About this listen

 This is the story Bardot’s Belinda Chapple has wanted to tell for twenty years – a cautionary tale of exploitation and heartbreak.

In 2000, millions of Australians tuned in to watch Popstars, one of the world’s first reality television competitions, in which five girls were selected from thousands to become members of a new band: Bardot. And Belinda Chapple signed a contract that would turn her life upside down.

Bardot shot straight to fame and Belinda spent the following three years relentlessly rehearsing, recording and touring. The band released two very successful albums, a slew of hit singles, and performed on world stages to thousands of adoring fans.

But Belinda discovered that the life of a popstar could be lonely, and it came with consequences she never saw coming. The impact on her body image was disastrous, and it was impossible to maintain romantic relationships, but at least she had her fellow band members to turn to for support … or so she thought.

The Girl in the Band is a behind-the-curtains look at the ruthlessness of the entertainment industry. Belinda Chapple’s story will resonate with anyone who’s given up everything for a dream, only to have it shatter around them. Entertainment & Celebrities Celebrity Heartfelt
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As a music fan, who’s first ever heartbreak was the bloody ginger leaving the band, it’s helpful to have insight into this time for Bardot. The breakup was sudden and unexpected to the fans, but it must have been so traumatic to the other members of the band. Hopefully this affords some healing for Belinda. Beautifully written, insightful and healing x

Beautiful story

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I watched the TV show, and followed through the start. So it was interesting to hear the back stories behind what happened and why ? Some people's actions and poor behaviour choices, seem to have had a Karma effect on their future careers. "No names" I believe that Belinda was lucky to come out of this and have a future career. Due to her PTSD I'm assuming that is why she choose to not continue with her musical path, sad as her talent and skills were lost from this. Makes me wonder if she'd gone down the rd with the Grundy offer, where she'd be now ? ❤✌🥰

Back stories and karma

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I used to watch Pop Stars and followed Bardot and Scandal'us. I was shocked to read about you not getting paid etc for all of that work. They treated you all terribly. Glad u were able to pick yourself up and make a new career for yourself x

Interesting look into reality TV

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Very raw and honest. Thanks for sharing your interesting story. I have to make this review longer

Nice book

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I was a huge Popstars fan and loved Bardot. The book was very interesting in showing what was really happening. A good listen.

Looking Behind the curtain

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I thoroughly enjoyed listening to this book... what a wonderful and captivity narration! It grew up idolising this group and enjoyed their music and influential fashion choices of the time... so sad to hear what was happening behind the scenes. Belinda was always my fave and will remain my fave! Thank you for sharing this story with us all.

Really enjoyed this...

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Belinda is brave for doing this book. While reading this book I re watched all the episodes of Popstars. The concept of this series would have been good if the industry that spawned it had integrity. Even all those years ago while watching the show we all knew this was all about image. All these shows are. So sad that these young ladies were used as pawns for the greed of rich moguls.
As for Sophie, she was young and easily lured I suppose. I can’t really have an opinion on her character because I don’t know her.
Anyways I really enjoyed listening to this story and it is a good guidepost for young people trying to make it in the industry.
ps I’m still seething that you received no payment.

Darkness is always exposed

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it enjoyed the book, it was interesting although I found some areas vague. I'm not sure if this was on purpose due to the preferences expressed by other. an example is that I found that Sally was barely mentioned, very much focused on Sophie.
it was a good behind the scenes and I enjoyed the nostalgia and appreciate Belinda's vulnerability about the pressure she placed on herself.
Would have loved if she told us a bit more about her life after Bardot.
a good read.

It was ok

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A great story, beautifully narrated by Belinda Chapple, pulling back the curtain on the Aus music industry and TV in the 90s/2000s. A bit shocking at times, a must read for fans of the band and music fans in general.

The Girl in the band rocks!

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Eye opening read. Loved the stories and the pace of the book. Would have loved to read more about life after Bardot too.

I loved this.

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