Take That

United Kingdom, 1990–now

Manchester group formed in 1990 around songwriter Gary Barlow, Britain's defining '90s boy band. 'Back for Good' and their ballad-and-dance-pop template made them superstars, later reinvented as an adult pop act.

MusicRoots documents 2 artists who influenced Take That and 1 artist Take That influenced in turn. Every connection cites a published source.

Who influenced Take That?

• Michael Jackson — Take That's early dance-pop and choreography were modelled on Michael Jackson and American new jack swing.
• Boyz II Men — Boyz II Men's lush vocal-group balladry is a clear model for Take That's harmony ballads like 'Back for Good'.

Which artists did Take That influence?

• Robbie Williams — Williams rose to fame in Take That, the boy band that was his springboard — their pop craft and showbiz polish underpin his solo style.