Melanie C, known as Sporty Spice, described the 30th anniversary of the Spice Girls' debut single Wannabe as a 'very emotional day' while accepting the global impact award at the Nordoff and Robbins O2 Silver Clef Awards on Thursday at the Royal Albert Hall.
Mel C reflects on anniversary and band's bond
The 52-year-old singer, whose real name is Melanie Chisholm, said: 'It was a very emotional day yesterday, we're all in touch obviously, all of the girls, we're so grateful and respectful of each other. We came together, and we achieved our wildest dreams, and we changed our lives forever, and the world forever, some would say.'
All five members of the band — Chisholm, Victoria Beckham, Emma Bunton, Melanie Brown, and Geri Halliwell-Horner — took to social media on Wednesday to mark the anniversary.
Band members share tributes online
Victoria Beckham posted on Instagram: 'I can't believe it's been 30 years since Wannabe came out. The debut single that forever changed our lives, I'll always be grateful to have been a part of that journey. Thank you so much to our fans for all their love and support over all these years and to my @spicegirls sisters, I love you all so much.'
Mel B, also known as Scary Spice, kept her tribute simple with: 'Zigazig ahhhhYipppeeee!' Emma Bunton wrote: 'Happy birthday Wannabe, 30 years! Love you all thank you!' Mel C added: '30 years of girl power! Happy Birthday Wannabe I love you @emmaleebunton @victoriabeckham @officialmelb @gerihalliwellhorner @biffco and Matt Rowe, the song that changed our lives forever.' Geri Halliwell-Horner said: '30 Years of Wannabe … Thank you to my beautiful spice sisters, and thank you to the fans for joining us.'
Spice Girls' legacy and chart success
The 1990s pop group rose to the top of the charts after Wannabe was released in 1996, becoming one of the biggest girl groups of all time with nine UK number one singles. They also achieved two UK number one albums and are known for hits like Say You'll Be There, 2 Become 1, and Spice Up Your Life.
Other winners at the Silver Clef Awards
Other winners at the Silver Clef Awards on Thursday included singer-songwriter Sam Fender (best live act), Scottish indie rock band Franz Ferdinand (best group), Lily Allen (icon award), and Jade (best female).
