Once upon a Y2K fever dream, before TikTok stars became pop stars and before Canadian Idol tried to make it happen (but never really did), a little show called Popstars hit our screens. Think Making the Band but with colder weather, smaller budgets, and a whole lot more bootcut denim.
From this gloriously chaotic televised talent competition emerged the holy grail of Canadian girl groups: SUGAR JONES, b*tch!
(For those with God-level good taste: Our new Sugar Jones candle is a must have)
The Origin Story: Popstars, 2001
It was the golden age of low-rise jeans and belly chains, and the world was hungry for another Spice Girls moment. Enter Popstars: The One, a reality show that hand-picked five women out of thousands to form a girl group that would slay the nation.
After a very Canadian amount of polite competition and impromptu hallway vocals, the final lineup was chosen:
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Julie Crochetière: The soulful songstress from Beaconsfield, Quebec.
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Mirella Dell'Aquila: Montreal's own powerhouse vocalist.
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Andrea Henry: The R&B-infused voice hailing from Hamilton, Ontario.
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Sahara MacDonald: The dynamic performer from Vancouver.
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Maiko Watson: Winnipeg's versatile musical talent.
Together, they became Sugar Jones, a name as catchy as their debut single.
The Music: A Sugar Rush That Didn't Last
Their self-titled album dropped in 2001, featuring the infectious lead single "Days Like That," which climbed Canadian charts and became a MuchMusic staple. The follow-up, "How Much Longer," showcased their vocal prowess but didn't replicate the same success.
Despite a platinum-certified album and a Juno nomination, internal changes—like Maiko Watson's departure in 2002—led to the group's dissolution by 2003.
Where Are They Now?
Let's catch up with the ladies who once ruled our CD players:
Julie Crochetière
After Sugar Jones, Julie embraced her jazz roots, releasing several solo albums. Her 2014 album, Counting Dreams, earned a Juno nomination for Vocal Jazz Album of the Year. She's also ventured into interior design, co-founding a home renovation company with her husband.
Mirella Dell'Aquila
Mirella stepped away from the limelight, focusing on family life in Montreal. She's worked in the hotel industry and education sector, all while occasionally gracing local stages with her vocal talents.
Andrea Henry
Andrea continued her musical journey, performing with her band, Crystal Soul. She's also contributed to arts and event services, nurturing the next generation of Canadian talent.
Sahara MacDonald
Sahara explored the world of musical theatre, starring in productions like We Will Rock You. Embracing wellness, she became a certified yoga instructor, guiding others in Toronto towards balance and mindfulness.
Maiko Watson
Maiko released her solo album, Sweet Vibration, in 2009, which won Best Urban Album at the 2010 Western Canadian Music Awards. She later appeared on Murdoch Mysteries and now works in real estate under her married name, Maiko Munroe.
The Legacy: More Than a Pop Footnote
While Sugar Jones' time in the spotlight was brief, their impact resonates with fans who remember the excitement of their rise. They were pioneers in Canada's reality TV music scene, setting the stage for future acts and reminding us of a time when pop dreams were just a televised audition away.
So here's to Sugar Jones—a sweet chapter in Canadian pop history that still leaves us craving more.
