Lost
July 12, 2008
MENUDO
In the '80s, Menudo became more than one of the most popular acts in Latino history—it was a downright cultural revolution, forging a lasting imprint beloved to this day. Why not then re-form for a new generation, though this time sans the revolving door that forced exit at age 18? The five Me-"new"-dos auditioned via MTV reality series "Making Menudo"—managed by the legendary Johnny Wright, who oversaw New Kids on the Block, Backstreet Boys, 'N Sync and other youth staples. With tours alongside the Jonas Brothers and this summer's Bandemonium, launch track "Lost" possesses just the kind of infectious, layered singalong hook to seduce tweens en masse. Latin culture is so much more pervasive now, marking Menudo for across-the-board success—while the guys, from 16 to 19, dance like the dickens, sing just as well and are diverse and charming enough to establish individual personas. Branding is the name of the game nowadays; you can't do better than this. —Chuck Taylor
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