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The Girl in the Band

By: Belinda Chapple, Bianca Ross
Narrated by: Belinda Chapple
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Publisher's Summary

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.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.

©2023 Belinda Chapple (P)2023 Simon & Schuster Audio

What listeners say about The Girl in the Band

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    4 out of 5 stars
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    3 out of 5 stars

Darkness is always exposed

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.

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Really enjoyed this...

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.

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Interesting look into reality TV

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

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Back stories and karma

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 ? ❤✌🥰

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Great story. Did not disappoint!

I was so excited when Belinda announced her book release.

Belinda has such a lovely speaking voice and the narration was very warm and made the story feel even more personal.

If you were a fan of Bardot or if you have an interest in how the music industry works, this book is extremely satisfying.

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Short snapshot on what goes on when you want to succeed in the music industry

A bit if an eye opener (for me) about the greedy, seedy world of what goes on in our music world. One persons view admittedly but it does seem to have truth which is so sad and unfair to genuine hardworking artists. Oh to be a fly on the wall when karma catches up to the suits…

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It was ok

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.

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  • Sam
  • 12-09-2023

Compelling

I really enjoyed hearing the other side of the Bardot story. I was 13 when Bardot started and I was one of the girls that followed them everywhere (as far as Fiji thanks to 2day fm) now in my 30s I really enjoyed hearing Belinda's side of the tale and what was going on behind the scenes. It also hit home hearing about her eating disorder- it was weird being on the other side of it, a teen girl watching the performances over and over trying to starve myself to look like them. I wish I'd have known better. I remember clearly finding out at Randwick racecourse that Bardot was no more and going home sobbing for days. Finished off my Bardot fan journey on stage with the girls for the last performance, but felt the pain of the break up almost like a parents divorce or a marriage breakdown, it was intense and hard to describe unless you've been there. This story was well written, tactful and eye opening. Belinda's narration was fantastic and added to the experience for me. Thank you for sharing your story Boo.
- Cara

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Exposes the Exploitation of Reality TV Stars

We all watched popstars in the 90s and we thought they were well paid and treated by the process. The "Grey Suits" need to be exposed for the greedy, exploitative and unconscionable people they are. I wish we had names. They made so much money off the backs of young women trying to make their lives better by doing what they love. It's almost a "me too" scenario.

To this day it seems lies are being told to cover those who treated the girls so badly and used them to generate huge amounts of revenue, whilst denying them fair compensation. Even their inner circle, including one of their own ultimately betrayed them. Their manager was the ultimate Judas, destroying the band to advance one of the girls . We all remember Poison. Anyone remember Inside Outside?

Well done for exposing the real happenings Belinda. I was really shocked at what you endured at the hands of the grey suits, the entertainment machine and all the people who exploited you!

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So many revelations

Popstars was a I grew up and loved. I was shocked by the revelations of exploration of the band behind the scenes. It was far more interesting than I realised it would be. Throughly enjoyed it.

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