After approximately 752 seasons of Drag Race, certain patterns have emerged; you can expect to see a plucky underdog, a staggeringly polished youngster, and an overwhelming yet charming theatre queen in each cast. That reliability also applies to the challenges, and the Girl Group challenge has become an undeniable staple of drag entertainment. It also has one of the most practical applications in the real world for drag queens, many of whom make nightclubs bearable on a nightly basis.

Thanks to streaming, the Girl Group challenge has also become a key revenue stream for production company World of Wonder; Songs go viral and in some rare cases, they’ve even charted in their respective countries! The difference in quality, however, is vast. In some instances, you’d think these queens perform in these very Girl Groups for a living. In others, you’ll wonder how they ever made it onto a stage. But we’re going to rank every. Single. One of them. Yes, that includes International and All Stars seasons.

A few notes. We’re not counting Girl Groups where queens don’t write their own lyrics, which is why you won’t see Italia Season 3 and France Season 2 here. Some performances that look like Girl Groups are actually classified as Rumixes (like “Read U Wrote U”), so those aren’t here either. And each Girl Group is ranked individually, not by challenge, because sometimes the difference in quality is so vast from one group to the other that trying to put them together would be cataclysmic. (The challenge winning queens are denoted in bold.) Sometimes there are individual wins, sometimes a group wins, occasionally there are top twos. This is a franchise that likes to make up rules as it goes along.

Let’s get into it and see which queens serve up glorious divadom, and which ones create moments of utter horror on stage. There’s nothing quite like Girl Groups!

Outback Fake-Hoes -“Queens Down Under” (Down Under Season 1)

Queens: Coco Jumbo, Etcetera Etcetera, Scarlet Adams, Antia Wig’lit

Drag Race Down Under has a terrible reputation thanks to its lackluster and confusing first season, and the awful girl group challenge does not help matters. It’s lifeless and underproduced, and only Anita stands out (slightly) for being kooky; everyone else is giving nothing. Even the backing vocals sound bored. The nadir of Drag Race.

Three and a Half Men -“Queens Down Under” (Down Under Season 1)

Queens: Elektra Shock, Kita Mean, Karen from Finance, Maxi Shield

Here’s a marginal improvement on the Outback Fake-Hoes because the outfits are nicer and Elektra’s choreo is fab. But this is still dreadful: Karen sings about admin, and the others deliver cliches about how they’ll snatch the crown. A perfect example of why the season is a mess: Elektra Shock deserves the win here for her elite dancing, but gets put in the bottom because she’s…too good? Choices…

Slice Girls – “B.D.E.” (UK Season 3)

Queens: Scarlett Harlett, Charity Kase, Kitty Scott-Claus, Krystal Versace

The pop version of “B.D.E” should be a recipe for success, but the Slice Girls’ performance is anything but. There are many predictable beats like rapping about snatching the crown, and less obvious things like Charity singing about having snot on her face, which is at least unique, even if it’s a bad choice. Scarlett has strong lyrics, but she flubs the lip-sync, throwing off her entire performance. It makes for one of the most uncomfortable, skin-crawling moments in the show. It physically hurts to watch! Kitty deserved so much better than this.

The Triple Threats – “Come Alive” (UK Season 4)

Queens: Black Peppa, Baby, Jonbers Blonde, Starlet, Sminty Drop

There seems to be a curse on Drag Race UK: If you are born to be in a girl group, you will not win a challenge. Baby is sensational here, but she follows in the tragic footsteps of Cheryl and Kitty Scott Claus, being placed in an underwhelming team. Underwhelming is actually quite generous because the only thing The Triple Threats are threatening is to bore the life out of you. Baby is exceptional, and she could have won if she picked better teammates. Starlet delivering the line “I’m a little goofy” while being completely stonefaced is uproarious in the worst way. Half the girls don’t know their own words. It’s all just…unfortunate.

The Hoezes – “Pussy on Fire” (All Stars Season 9)

Queens: Roxxxy Andrews, Vanessa Vanjie Matteo

The worst girl group concept in all of Drag Race. Blending girl groups and the makeover is fun in theory, but it results in each girl group song being about 45 seconds long, which isn’t enough to do anything. The queens don’t even get a full verse! Why bother? Roxxxy needed more space to create something on the level of her iconic “Read U Wrote U” verse.

SLYC – “Attitude” (Belgique Season 2)

Queens: Chloe Clarke, Loulou Velvet, Madame Yoko, Star

I know we saw the queens practising choreo in the episode, but after watching this group, I’m not sure any of them were present at rehearsal. Everyone’s doing something different, and they don’t sound good either.

The Pussycat Hose – “Pussy on Fire” (All Stars Season 9)

Queens: Shannel, Angeria Paris VanMicheals

“Hissin’ while I’m pissin’” is hysterical. The rest? Meh.

Meow Meow Mixxx – “Pussy on Fire” (All Stars Season 9)

Queens: Jorgeous, Plastique Tiara

Jorgeous and Plastique look incredible and sound great. They belong in a real girl group, not this.

The Horse Draggers – “Pussy on Fire” (All Stars Season 9)

Queens: Gottmik, Nina West

Fun for the 30 seconds it exists, but then fades from memory like all All Stars 9 numbers. Who approved this format that reduces the Girl Groups to mere seconds? I just wanna talk.

The RuPremes – “My Baby Is Love” (RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 14)

Queens: Angeria Paris VanMichaels, Lady Camden, Kerri Colby

It’s a boring song, the performances are uninspired (though everyone’s decision to have unsettling makeup is…unique). At least Angeria sounds amazing! Trying to emulate the iconic Supremes is a fool’s errand, and this performance proves it. Honestly, it’s hard to watch. The Supremes would never.

Fame Tarts – “Money, Success, Fame, Glamour” (All Stars Season 8)

Queens: Kahanna Montrese, Heidi N Closet, Alexis Michelle, Naysha Lopez, Kandy Muse, Darienne Lake

Six queens are too many for one group, especially when the song is only a few minutes long. The queens look great in various silver/black getups, but the lyrics – about being famous and successful – are pretty generic. It lacks a real standout performance, but at least there’s no disaster here.

Glitter Chicks – “Money, Success, Fame Glamour” (All Stars Season 8)

Queens: Mrs. Kasha Davis, La La Ri, Jessica Wild, Monica Beverly Hillz, Jimbo, Jaymes Mansfield

Practically indistinguishable from the Fame Tarts, the Glitter Chicks seem to have a bit more fun with their number (except Monica, who looks/sounds bored and is a few beats behind). The eternally underappreciated Mrs. Kasha Davis is hilarious here (“1,2,3…7!”, her shout of “Brunch” at the end), and Jessica Wild and La La Ri are hypnotic every time they’re on stage.

D’Vybe – “Everybody Say Love” (Global All Stars Season 1)

Queens: Kween Kong, Pythia, Soa de Muse

Sticking to new mixes of RuPaul songs for a Global competition is a wise choice; the pink/orange outfits these queens are wearing are not. They look hideous. Pythia is so out of place with two great dancers that the entire dance looks like a hot mess. The lyrics aren’t much better, recycling various cliches about self-love.

Fresh M.E.A.T. – “Everybody Say Love” (Global All Stars Season 1)

Queens: Alyssa Edwards, Eva Le Queen, Miranda Lebrão, Tessa Testicle

Credit where it’s due: these queens really go for it in the choreo. There’s a lot going on, and almost none of it works. Superstar dancer Alyssa Edwards took the lead here, but seemed to forget to check if her group was actually capable of doing the moves. Miranda is distressingly stiff. The lyrics are forgettable, just like the overall number.

Las Cinco y Cuatro – “Divas” (España Season 1)

Queens: Inti, Arantxa Castilla La Mancha, Drag Vulcano, Pupi Poisson, Dovima Nurmi

It’s sloppy. Arantxa devotes half her verse to saying her name, Dovima looks bored, Vulcano is an awkward, lumbering giant, and everyone looks like they’re dressed for a different universe. The track isn’t good either, and sorely lacks a good beat.

The Bad Sandys – “Mr. Right Now” (Down Under Season 4)

Queens: Freya Armani, Lucina Innocence, Mandy Moobs, Nikita Iman, Vybe

A bad song like “Mr. Right Now” begets forgettable performances. Thankfully, Vybe exists, and she lifts The Bad Sandys from being truly awful to just pretty bad.

Identities – “Be Yourself” (Belgique Season 2)

Queens: Alvilda, Gabanna, La Veuve, Morphae

Avilda brings an electric punk vibe to the generic pop proceedings of “Be Yourself,” but the rest of the song is a bore. Can these queens sing? Well, no! But “Be Yourself” is a passable song, even if, like the Belgique itself, it struggles to make an impact.

The RuNettes – “He’s My Baby” (RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 14)

Queens: Deja Skye, Gorgeous, Jasmine Kennedie

Look, the gals tried, but this song is dead on arrival. Deja is the standout, delivering a subtle manic energy behind her solid vocals. But the balance between sincerity and satire doesn’t work, and the number doesn’t go anywhere.

Les soeurs Jacquettes – “Boom Boom” (France Season 1)

Queens: La Big Bertha, La Grande Dame, Paloma

It’s as if each queen performs a separate song, which does not make for a great Girl Group performance. The sound mixing does Paloma dirty – why does it sound like she’s doing an ASMR video? There are some gaggy moments, though, like La Grande Dame doing half of her verse upside down.

Filth Harmony – “Break Up (Bye Bye)” (UK Season 1)

Queens: Crystal, The Vivienne, Cheryl

Cheryl (fka Cheryl Hole) is born to be in a girl group. Her energy and dance moves are top tier, and her verse is perky with an edge (“I’m sick of playing games now / And working with these trolls”). The rest of the group is not on her level. The Vivienne sounds good but struggles with the choreo, and Crystal’s verse is atrocious, to put it gently. If anything, it makes their competitors (the Frock Destroyers) so much better, as it proves that even a terrific song can be rendered forgettable by underwhelming verses and lacklustre performance.

The Powderpuffs – “E’ de’ det här du kallar make-up” (Sverige Season 1)

Queens: Elecktra, Fontana, Vanity Vain

I tried to understand what’s going on in the Swedish Girl Groups. I really did! But there must be a cultural barrier, because these made no sense to me. They’re like parodies of Eurovision songs. “Another Kind of Makeup?” is just three queens reading each other in song for a few minutes. It’s weird?  I feel like I’m missing something – they don’t sound good, and I can’t tell if it’s part of a bit. It just doesn’t feel like a song. Objectively not terrible though!

Arjas Anglar – “Allt jag begär” (Sverige Season 1)

Queens: Admira Thunderpussy, Antonina Nutshell, Santana Sexmachine

Again, I feel like I’m not a part of the joke, because the judges seem to enjoy what’s happening. Or maybe they’re as baffled as I am; it’s hard to tell. Still, this one sounds better than The Powderpuffs.

Dosey Hoes – “Bye Flop” (Canada Season 2)

Queens: Eve 6000, Kimora Amour, Kendall Gender, Synthia Kiss

The Dosey Hoes do well to match the energy of “Bye Flop”—a song with virtually no energy. This was just four queens hanging around on stage with mediocre lyrics. The only thing these queens should say bye to is this total flop of a song. Nobody deserved “Bye Flop,” but the Dosey Hoes were easily the weaker group.

Bananadrama – “UK Hun?” (UK Season 2)

Queens: Ellie Diamond, Joe Black, Sister Sister, Tia Kofi

A victim of circumstance; namely, coming immediately after a legendary performance from the competing United Kingdolls. Joe Black is not built for an upbeat campy pop number, and it shows. Otherwise, there’s good energy and some cute lyrics, but nothing really stands out. It’s not terrible, but it’s such a comedown from the United Kingdolls version that RuPaul doesn’t even clap.

Hung Divas – “Bosom Buddies” (Down Under Season 2)

Queens: Molly Poppins, Yuri Guaii, Beverly Kills

A great example of how two different girl groups doing the same song can have drastically different results. Beverly smashes “Bosom Buddies,” but her group suffers from lackluster lyrics and low energy. Girl groups aren’t for them, and that’s okay!

Dracula’s Child – “Dead or Alive” (UK Season 6)

Queens: Zahira Zapanta, Chanel O’Connor, Kyran Thrax, Marmalade, Actavia

For some reason, Season 6 of UK gave the Girl Groups a Halloween theme. As Tatianna says — choices. “Dead or Alive” is a pretty good time, but the theming lacks the replay value of other UK Drag Race bangers. Kyran and especially Actavia are standouts, serving up sexy, sultry, and murderous (perfect for the Halloween theme). But everyone else gives varying degrees of mediocrity. Actually, Zahirah is actively bad – her lyrics don’t rhyme, they’re not remotely creepy, and she doesn’t look particularly excited to perform the number.

The Vixens – “Heartbreak” (Canada Season 4)

Queens: Kitten Kaboodle, Melinda Verga, Kiki Coe, The Girlfriend Experience, Aimee Yoncé Shennel

Everyone in The Vixens looks beautiful. The energy is all over the place for a breakup song, with most of the queens seeming over it. The missed choreography and lyrics don’t help either. Except for a delightfully ferocious Aimee, there’s little in “Heartbreak” that stands out. The moment it’s over, you’ve forgotten it even happened.

Backdoor Girls – “Duh” (Canada Season 5)

Queens: Jaylene Thyme, Uma Gahd, Minhi Wang, Helena Poison

A ‘90s throwback is a super fun idea for a girl group, but there are one too many references in place of satisfying lyrics. The Backdoor Girls look cohesive, and their energy is infectious, but Canada’s Drag Race has always struggled with giving the queens memorable songs, and this season is no exception.

Giddy Girls -”Bye Flop” (Canada Season 2)

Queens: Gia Metric, Icesis Couture, Adrianna, Pythia

The performances are high energy, but a country-themed breakup song is certainly a choice. The queens lyrics are decent enough, but “Bye Flop” itself is one of the worst songs in Drag Race herstory, one with no staying power whatsoever. Gia sounds great, but Adrianna probably should have won for her unhinged verse that incorporates three languages.

Dragometry (RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 8)

Queens: Naysha Lopez, Derrick Berry, Chi Chi De’Vayne

Everything about this song is a disaster — it’s also incredibly watchable. Every second is off-key. The costumes and the lyrics – bafflingly about “Rectangle Girls of the World” (??) – are awful. It’s memorable for all the wrong reasons, but memorable nonetheless.

“Show Up Queen” (All Stars Season 6)

Queens: Jan, Pandora Boxx, Trinity K. Bonet, Kylie Sonique Love, Ginger Minj, Eureka, Ra’Jah O’Hara

This one is technically two competing groups, but there’s no real distinction between the two, so they only get one spot on this list. Regardless, “Show Up Queen” is messy. It’s supposed to be an empowerment anthem, but Jan (a sensational vocalist) completely misses the assignment, singing about her peppy energy. It gets worse. Pandora Boxx devotes half her verse to going “ha ha,” creating an out-of-body experience in the worst possible way. But the serves are strong; Trinity, Ra’Jah, and Eureka are delightful. Side note: there are some truly disgusting wigs in this challenge – what were Ginger and TKB thinking?

Queens of the Bone Age – “Come Alive” (UK Season 4)

Queens: Dakota Schiffer, Le Fil, Danny Beard, Cheddar Gorgeous, Pixie Polite, Copper Top

There’s a reason the girl group challenge usually comes later in the season. Four queens per group tends to be the sweet spot in giving each queen a chance to show what they’ve got. Six queens is simply too much to take in. It doesn’t help that “Come Alive” is the weakest number that the UK franchise has dabbled in, relying entirely on a cum joke that gets less clever each time you hear it. Everyone’s fine, but nobody has that coveted “wow” moment. Winning groups don’t tend to be this forgettable.

Ru Tang Clan – “Oh No She Better Don’t” (RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 6)

Queens: Joslyn Fox, BenDeLaCreme, Trinity K. Bonet, Milk

The very first girl group challenge, “Oh No She Better Don’t” sends up 90s hip-hop. The Ru Tang Clan is aggressively, painfully white and largely lacks anything resembling a flow (Joslyn Fox innocent).  It’s mostly a fever dream: Milk’s “If you’re lookin’ for a dude / Or in the preggers mood” is an unhinged work of lyricism.

The M-52s – “Don’t Ick My Yum” (UK Season 5)

Queens: Banksie, Kate Butch, Miss Noami Carter, Ginger Johnson

Hampered by a queen with an injury (poor Naomi), most of The M-52s performance is centered around a couch, which is certainly unique, but also boring. Verses are cute and campy, but it’s nothing to write home about.

Kiss My Ass – “Mis Amigas y Yo” (España Season 4)

Queens: Angelita la Perversa, Chloe Vittu, Miss Khristo

Pop is usually the key to great girl groups, but Kiss My Ass have fun performing the rock version of “Mis Amigas y Yo”. The vibe is strong, but the performance is a mess, with sloppy choreo and a slew of missed lyrics in the lip-sync.

VMXP – “Not” (Canada Season 5)

Queens: Xana, Makayla Couture, The Virgo Queen, Perla

Xana is a lyrical terrorist, delivering an overflowing disaster that is unintentionally hilarious. “Not” suffers from lyrics that are so heavy on ‘90s references that it’s hard for any real personality to come through, as fun as it is to watch these gals perform.

“Boogsh” (Philippines Season 2)

Queens: Astrid Mercury, Bernie, DeeDee Marié Holiday, Hana Beshie, ØV Cünt, Veruschka Levels

I won’t stop complaining about Girl Groups coming so early. These queens don’t know each other, and have no time to build the chemistry that’s so essential to great Girl Group performances! That shows in this version of “Boogsh.” Choreography? Messy. Lyrics? Dull. A rare miss for the Philippines, who’ve gained quite the reputation in the Girl Groups sphere (and everything else. Seriously, watch Drag Race Philippines).

F.A.B. International – “BMX Bitches” (Down Under Season 3)

Queens: Bumpa Love, Flor, Ashley Madison

RuPaul cannot resist an obscure reference, so he dedicated an entire Girl Group challenge to the ‘80s cult movie BMX Bandits starring Nicole Kidman. They have to perform with actual BMX bikes, a bonkers decision that results in robotic, tough-to-watch performances. The chorus is freakishly catchy, but its a bit dead-on-arrival (Flor excluded, she’s a delight).

“Boogsh” (Philippines Season 2)

Queens: Captivating Katkat, Arizona Brandy, M1ss Jade So, Matilduh, Nicole Pardaux, Tiny Deluxe

Yet another problem with Girl Group coming early, and especially being the first challenge of the season: Queen love singing about how they’ll win the crown at the start. It’s boring! As a song, “Boogsh” is too busy, trying to shove too many lyrics into a chorus that doesn’t need them. The queens impress, especially Arizona Brandy, and everyone has a great voice, but the lyrics across the board underwhelm.

Team Monique – “Everybody Say Love” (All Stars Season 4)

Monique Heart, Monét X Change, Farrah Moan, Naomi Smalls

Oh, Farrah Moan. She’s a wonderful drag queen, but dancing is not her thing. That makes the entirety of “Everybody Say Love” a rough spot. It’s an awkward clash of strong verses across the board (Farrah’s is the weakest, but her opener “Love, it’s crazy right?” is irresistible) with train-wreck choreography. Gia’s talking head is startlingly accurate: “They’re all just kinda bopping around.” Monique’s vocals are fantastic, and her bottom placement was underserved. Unpleasant to watch, but a blast to listen to.

The Good Sandys – “Mr. Right” (Down Under Season 4)

Queens: Brenda Bressed, Karna Ford, Lazy Susan, Max Drag Queen, Olivia Dreams

Look, Girl Groups just can’t come this early in the season! The queens don’t get enough space to write full verses, and there are always some queens who are leagues behind everyone else. Thank the lord for Lazy Susan (who dog walked the entire season) going full camp with a stalker character: “You’ll ask ‘Why are you in my house?’ / I’ll say ‘I’m Lazy’.”

Team Trinity – “Don’t Funk It Up” (All Stars Season 4)

Queens: Trinity the Tuck, Valentina, Manila Luzon, Latrice Royale, Gia Gunn

All Stars 4 decided to feature Henny (legendary Drag Race contestant Stacy Lane Matthews) in the girl groups. As a Henny stan, it’s a fun idea but clunky in execution—the competing queens spend a lot of time in the background, and Henny never actually sings. The funky beat keeps the energy up, but the verses are lacking. Gia reminds us she’s a woman (fair enough), and Manila spends her time whispering for some reason. The outfits are wildly incohesive, and the choreography is boring. But Latrice is amazing in her rapid-fire verse, and Valentina looks astonishingly beautiful and delivers a show-stopper.

Mean Gays – “Sip Sip Sip”

Queens: Frankie Wonga, Spicy Sunshine, Gawdland, Kara Might, Shortgun

Gawdland (what a name) is an explosion of energy, which is great, except none of the other queens can meet her level on “Sip Sip Sip.” Most of these queens look terrified to be on stage, and some forget to lip-sync. The dancing is clumsy, too.

Dream Nerd – “Mis Amigas y Yo” (España Season 4)

Queens: Le Cocó, Megui Yeillow, Kelly Passa!?

Group Dream Nerd gets a disco twist on “Mis Amigas y Yo,” which proves to be mostly good. One section features a super fast-paced rap, which Megui nails, and Kelly Pasa!? (punctuation in a drag name is so iconic) fumbles badly, and looks lost and bewildered.

Gurlden Flowers – “Sip Sip Sip” (Thailand Season 3)

Queens: Benze Diva, Zepee, Gigi Ferocious, Nane Sphera, Siam Phusri

“Sip Sip Sip” is a bit of a banger! The Gurlden Flowers look like a cohesive girl group and have some clever gossip-themed choreo. Zepee is especially electric. The lyrics, however, leave quite a bit to be desired, making this one a bouncy yet forgettable rendition.

The Things – “Dead or Alive” (UK Season 6)

Queens: Charra Tea, La Voix, Lill, Kiki Snatch, Rilesa Slaves

Rilesa is a deserved winner: I can’t say I know what she’s saying, but she sounds great, her look is to die for, and her stage presence is undeniable. As a group, it’s not very cohesive, with La Voix and Charra delivering pure camp, while Kiki and Rilesa go for pure sex. And the wonderful Lill is just trying to do the choreo.

Banjo Bitches – “Golden Girlfriends” (RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 15)

Queens: Mistress Isabelle Brooks, Luxx Noir London, Marcia Marcia Marcia, Salina EsTitties

It’s always fun when Drag Race goes in an unexpected direction, and a country number is a surprise. Luxx and Marcia sound great, and Mistress and Salina do well speak-singing. It’s solid, but I can’t help but find the whole parodying old-people thing baffling. It’s tired, and it tanks the replay value of these numbers. It doesn’t help that it lacks a truly hilarious or memorable line.

Ol’ Dirty Bitches – “Golden Hips” (RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 15)

Queens: Jaxx, Robin Fierce, Anetra, Loosey LaDuca

I don’t understand why the judges had such a problem with this hip-hop granny number. It’s not groundbreaking, but the choreography is fun (Jaxx and Robin break out impressive moves) and the outfits are cute. And Loosey’s lyrics and old-lady voice are very funny (“All I need are my girls and some butterscotch” is fab). It does the job, but again, the whole old-lady parody stops any of the Season 15 songs from greatness.

Q.D.S.M. – “Star Baby” (RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 16)

Queens: Q, Sapphira Cristál, Morphine Love Dion, Dawn

The performances are too varied; Sapphira and Dawn are fantastic, Morphine is good, and Q looks like performing in a girl group brings her great pain. She’s five steps behind the whole time, and her dance moves are robotic (that’s being generous), but her lyrics are at least passable. It’s a tough watch, but you can’t see how uncomfortable it is on your favorite music streaming service!

Obvias Seven – “Ya No Quiero” (Mexico Season 2)

Queens: Eva Blunt, Horacio Potasio, Luna Lansman, Suculenta, Ava Pocket

I love how Mexico adds props to the stage for Girl Group performances. It goes a long way in making it feel like a legit band is performing. “Ya No Quiero” is cute, danced well, and the queens harmonize really well together. Sadly the track is forgettable.

Las Metal Donnas – “Divas” (España Season 1)

Queens: Carmen Farala, Killer Queen, Sagittaria, Hugáceo Crujiante

Carmen Farala is among the best winners any Drag Race season has had. Just watch her explode onto the scene with her terrific verse and Beyoncé-level command of the stage. Other people are technically in this group, but it’s hard to see anyone else with Carmen present. The song itself is just okay.

Las P.N.S. – “Lonely” (Mexico Season 2)

Queens: Jenary Bloom, Elektra Vandergeld, Leexa Fox, Unique, Garçonne

Can every drag queen in Mexico sing? Everyone here sounds lovely, which really elevates the proceedings. They all look fab if disparate (this seems to be the thing in Mexico, there’s no visual cohesion in any DR Mexico Girl Group). The song’s a bit lackluster, but it’s executed well.

3HC – “Superstar” (España All Stars 1)

Queens: Hornella Gongora, Pupi Posson, Sagittaria

3HC gets the urban version of “Superstar,” which already puts them at a disadvantage; it lacks the vibrancy of the pop version. It’s a lowkey number, and while the queens deliver strong performances, there’s no wow factor or particularly memorable moment here, though Hornella does have a fun line about her ass.

SnS – “BMX Bitches” (Down Under Season 3)

Queens: Isis Avis Loren, Gabriella Labucci, Hollywould Star

Again, why would you make these queens perform with BMX bikes? How many drag queens do you see biking? It hampers what could have been a special performance. Thankfully, we have Gabriella Labucci, who delivers a ridiculous smoker character in her performance, and Hollywould Star serves girl group leader with ease.

Sin Pussycat Dolls – “Mis Amigas y Yo” (España Season 4)

Queens: La Niña Delantro, Mariana Stars, La Bella Vampi

Sin Pussycat Dolls have real stage presence, delivering a sweet, campy energy to their performance. It’s a blast from beginning to end. Their name may reference the Pussycat Dolls, but they’re more reminiscent of the Powerpuff Girls (complimentary).

“Not Sorry Aboot It” (Canada Season 1)

Queens: Priyanka, Boa, Lemon, Rita Baga, Scarlett Bobo, Anastarzia Anaquay, Tynomi Banks, Ilona Verley, Kiara, Jimbo

One that’s genuinely cringe to watch — there are two teams (meaning 10 queens) on stage at once, and less than half of them know the choreography. The energy is distressingly low-key for a rap battle, and the manic editing highlights far more flaws than successes. But just listening to the song, some super fun and memorable lyrics make you forget all about the on-screen car crash.

Pink Pussy Energy – “Pop Off Ate” (Philippines Season 1)

Queens: Gigi Era, Viñas Deluxe, Minty Fresh, Precious Paula Nicole, Xilhouete

A bit of a disappointment considering how much of an earworm “Pop Off Ate” is. Gigi Era’s verse is baffling: “If you’re feeling homesick / Just watch me how I flick” is unhinged, as is when she then cartwheels across the stage. How does that aid homesickness? The language barrier isn’t an excuse either, as she’s from Australia and fluent in English. This version of “Pop Off Ate” feels considerably more disjointed than the winning group.

The Love Bugs – “Heartbeat” (Canada Season 4)

Queens: Denim, Venus, Luna DuBois, Nearah Nuff, Aurora Matrix

The Love Bugs look like a girl group that has been performing together for years. That said, the performance is a touch low energy, save for an explosive Aurora Matrix, who perfectly matches the song’s giddy beat. The lyrics are pretty generic, but it’s a fun time all around.

The ShangRu-Las – “Bad Boy Baby” (RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 14)

Queens: Daya Betty, Willow Pill, Bosco

A fun twist on ‘60s girl groups, The ShangRu-Las skewer classic girl group style with a song all about a creepy stalker. It’s a cute parody, funny (“His body is splattered on the asphalt! / Yeah but it’s kinda hot”), and sung well. “Bad Boy Baby” fully commits to parody, which makes it leagues better than the competing girl groups on Season 14. It’s no surprise that these three ended up as finalists.

Hard Pakakers – “Dapat Pakak!” (Philippines Season 3)

Queens: J Quinn, John Fedellaga, Myx Chanel, Tita Baby, Yudipota

The song translates as “Don’t Fuck It Up!” and thankfully most of the queens don’t (sorry, Yudipota). John Fedellaga is effervescent, and her declaration that she’s “Your queen of OMG” is the best part of the song. They can’t quite match the powerhouse performers in Burakpak, and “Dapat Pakak!” lacks the addictive qualities of other Philippines girl group bangers.

“I’m In Love” (All Stars 5)

Queens: Shea Couleé, Mariah Paris Balenciaga, Ongina, India Ferrah, Alexis Matteo, Jujubee, Blair St. Clair, Mayhem Miller, Miz Cracker

Three girl groups come together for one single performance, and since they don’t even have individual team names, this stands as one performance. The concept is clever – a dreamy pop number about each queen’s celebrity crush. Some are predictable (Jason Momoa, Henry Cavill), others… concerning (Hannibal Lecter). But it’s a cuddly and cutesy number, with a catchy and memorable chorus. The quality of verses is all over the place; for every India Ferrah, you have Shea Couleé who blows everyone else out of the water with a magnificent ode to Chadwick Boseman, easily among the best individual verses ever (I’m dreaming about Wakanda life we’ll lead”).

Lovah Girlz – “Courage to Love” (RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 16)

Queens: Plasma, Amanda Tori Meating, Plane Jane, Xunami Muse

“Courage to Love” sounds wonderful: Plasma is one of the franchise’s best vocalists, Amanda’s verse is appropriately upbeat (if only that wig could get out of her face!), and Plane delivers bimbo to hilarious effect (her “Don’t break my heart / Just break my back” is a work of slutty art). The outfits are pretty incohesive, but the choreography slaps. Most of the lyrics are a bit too cutesy about self-love and whatnot, but that fits “Courage to Love” quite well.

Rockin Old G’s – “Golden Years” (RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 15)

Queens: Sasha Colby, Aura Mayari, Spice, Malaysia Babydoll Foxx

Sasha Colby could have easily (and probably should have) won her millionth challenge here: “Crackin’ this neck / Thank god for Medicare” is the funniest line of the night. Her commitment to a hard-rocking granny is off the charts, she works in her signature neck crack, and her lyrics are funny. Aura Mayari (who won the challenge) is great too, while Spice and Malaysia are both technically present.

Burakpak – “Dapat Pakak!” (Philippines Season 3)

Queens: Angel, Khianna, Maxie, Popstar Bench, Versex, Zymba Ding

Everyone looks great in neon green, except Versex, who stands out like a sore thumb from the rest of the group (she’s also a mile behind with the choreo and lip-syncing, which doesn’t help either). Her performance is exactly why Girl Groups should be an end-of-season challenge. Everyone else is delightful, though.  Philippines Season 3 has an insanely stacked cast, so this is mostly a fun number, and Maxie’s showstopping vocals take things up a notch.

Good Girls – “Festa com Mozão” (Brasil Season 1)

Queens: Aquarela, Betina Polaroid, Diva More, Mulsine Sparkle, Miranda Lebrão, Naza

Was I wrong in saying that Girl Groups should never come early? No, it’s the children who are wrong! Drag Race Brasil seems to have cracked the code on how to make the challenge work with a large group of queens—put them in a music video. Every queen gets their own unique spotlight, and everyone sounds like they should be singers. Performances vary from great to passable, but the track is lush; it’s a sultry summer vibe that would fit right in at any beach party.

Just Divas – “Bopulence” (Canada vs. the World Season 2)

Queens: Eureka!, Alexis Matteo, La Kahena

Nobody knows how to make Girl Groups like Canada vs The World. Season 2 upped the ante with three distinct and infectiously catchy songs. The least engaging is “Bopulence,” a high tempo number whose energy is only matched when Alexis does half her verse in Spanish. It’s still leagues ahead of most girl groups, and these queens know how to light up a stage.

Back Door Gals – “Everybody Say Love” (Global All Stars Season 1)

Queens: Gala Varo, Kitty Scott-Claus, Nehellenia, Vanity Vain

Thanks to the Back Door Gals, Global is saved from complete disaster in the Girl Group challenge. Nehellenia’s lyrics about anime are adorable (“Give me a shock like Pikachu”), Kitty gets Girl Group rudemption declaring her love of cheesy chips, and Gala Varo oozes sex (“Just say Ga-la-la-la-la” is bursting with eroticism). Vanity mixes goofy with slutty (“And once you’ve got that click / I’m gagging on that d***”). Fun!

“Street Meatz” (RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 8)

Queens: Thorgy Thor, Acid Betty, Bob the Drag Queen

Street Meatz is one of the great examples of how delivering a character can elevate your performance. Betty, Bob, and Thorgy are all hugely committed and funny, wearing bold New Wave patterns and outrageous hair. The lyrics, about (you guessed it) street meat are really witty (“We’re serving big black… beans!”).

Hot Girls – “Mardrugatas” (Brasil Season 1)

Queens: Dallas de Vil, Hellena Malditta, Organzza, Rubi Ocean, Shannon Skarllet, Tristan Soledade

The Hot Girls deliver on their name. They’re scintillating. This is a sexy reggaeton bop brought to life with strong performances. There’s not a ton to fault here (shocking since it’s the first competitive episode of the season), and Organzza immediately makes her mark as a top-notch performer, delivering brilliance right off the bat. Other franchises: If you insist on making your girl groups at the start of the season, please follow Brasil’s lead.

Maple She-rups – “Bonjour, Hi” (Canada vs. the World Season 1)

Queens: Icesis Couture, Kendall Gender, Stephanie Prince

Icesis proves why she won her original season—if this were a ranking of individual verses, she’d be in the top five (“Fashion beauty runway pose / Icesis nails it on the nose” is the hook of legends). She’s paired with Kendall and Stephanie, who deliver either nervous choreo (Kendall) or an impactless verse (Stephanie).

“Winner, Winner, Chicken Dinner” (All Stars Season 10)

Queens: Aja, Bosco, Deja Skye, Irene the Alien, Olivia Lux, Phoenix

There are very few instances when Drag Race Girl Groups venture outside of pop, so it’s exciting to see All Stars 10 take a risk with a foray into heavy metal. Aja, known for being a top-tier rapstress, delivers a jaw-dropping performance that’s so good you’ve wondered why she isn’t in a metal band. Her mannerisms are sensational, as are her hot-as-lava lyrics (“I put these girls in a hearse / In the first verse”). Bosco and Irene are both excellent, and Olivia sounds terrific, but she’s a little too poppy for a metal song, and Deja is too hip-hop (though her Lil Jon references never fail to slay). The less said about Phoenix, the better.  There’s no reason this should pay off, but these queens (mostly) turn it out in spectacular fashion.

Fierce Force Five – “Don’t Ick My Yum” (UK Season 5)

Queens; Cara Melle, Tomara Thomas, Dee Dee Licious, Vicki Vivacious, Michael Marouli

This fun 90’s rave tune strikes a pleasing balance between cheesy pop and sexy banger, “Don’t Ick My Yum” is brought to life by the very talented Fierce Force Five. All five queens deliver fierceness, and Cara Melle sounds like a legitimate pop star. The queens’ lyrics have plenty of variety, and Tomara’s “Your daddy’s favorite sauce” and Michael’s “I’m Greek I’m bad, you’re a big ballsack” are equally outrageous. The neon outfits pop and the choreo is smooth as butter, making welcome use of five queens and giving the performance valuable dimension.

The Nails – “Boom Boom” (France Season 1)

Queens: Elips, Lolita Banana, Soa de Muse

In a pleasant surprise, the rock version of “Boom Boom” is leagues better than its pop counterpart. The queens successfully channel rocker energy; jumping off the stage and performing right in front of the judges is pure anarchy in the best way. Soa exudes star quality, and Lolita has absurd lyrics: “Your little Oompa Loomps / Your Mexican bomba” is a hilarious way to describe yourself (and it rhymes in French). Elips struggles to keep up, but it’s still a good time.

Las Meximamis – “Así Soy Yo” (Mexico Season 1)

Queens: Margaret Y Ya, Matraka, Regina Voce, Serena Morena
The only Girl Group challenge where both competing groups have a winner, Las Meximamis are spicy and go down a treat. Matraka is so tremendously watchable, she’s so magnetic it’s hard to remember other queens are there. Regina Voce has a killer run to make up for her strange lyrics. Serena isn’t quite up to par with her group, but even she brings it. Mic drops all around.

The Face – “This Beat” (Canada vs. the World Season 2)

Queens: Tynomi Banks, Le Fil, Miss Fiercealicious

“My body is a canvas got the talent / To paint all the dreams I envision,” sings Le Fil in one of the most underappreciated performances in all of Girl Groups. They’re dynamic and their vocals are expertly layered. Tynomi is fierce, and Fiercealicious is giving nothing in the performance but everything in the lyrics, though they’re appropriately vapid (“Face flawless / Worth a milli dollars”).

The Panty Hos – “Oh No She Better Don’t” (RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 6)

Queens: Laganja Estranga, Bianca Del Rio, Darienne Lake, Adore Delano, Courtney Act

On the other end of the “On No She Better Don’t” spectrum, The Panty Hos crush the assignment. Okay, not Darienne Lake, who devotes her vote to being…barefoot? That said, “Big girl why you all in bare feet / Walking down the dirty city street” is one of the most iconic things to happen in roughly 1 million seasons of Drag Race. Comedy legend Bianca is surprisingly excellent at rapping, but it’s Adore who spits straight fire, embodying true B-Girl realness on her way to a well-earned challenge win.

BAB’Z – “Bosom Buddies” (Down Under Season 2)

Queens: Kween Kong, Spankie Jackson, Hannah Conda

A colossal upgrade over season one, Down Under season two is an underrated gem. Case in point: the sneaky fun track “Bosom Buddies,” a rocking pop number. The whole team is on fire; Hannah and Spankie have serious pipes, and Kween is a fiery rapstress (“You’re basic, bitch / I’mma say it to your face / We’ve been friends for a minute / So I’ll give it to you straight”). It’s no surprise these are the Top 3 queens of the season.

“Les Chicken Wings” (RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 8)

Queens: Kim Chi, Naomi Smalls, Robbie Turner

Drag Race goes punk with this super-fun and energetic number. Les Chicken Wings has stood the test of time, in part for being a punk number, standing out from the endless pop numbers. These queens really give their all, with Robbie Turner getting a big breakout moment. And Robbie shouting “Buy our vinyl in the back!” after the number is a dash of rock-star brilliance.

Touché – “Bonjour, Hi” (Canada vs. the World Season 1)

Queens: Rita Baga, Victoria Scone, Antia Wiglit

Touché bathes in nothing but camp, and their rendition of “Bonjour, Hi” is a blast. The lyrics are impressively layered, especially Rita, who sneakily spells out her name in a bubbly verse. Victoria sounds beautiful, and her words add a sexy edge to the goofiness: “You can start the jam / ’Cause I’ll cream first.” Good luck not listening to this one over and over, you’ll need it.

Les Palanquetas- “Así Soy Yo” (Mexico Season 1)

Queens: Argennis, Cristian Peralta, Gala Varo, Lady Kero

The queens of Mexico didn’t come to play with these Girl Groups, they came to slay. This is a great performance from top to bottom, even if the song (which translates as “That’s How I Am”) creates a narrow box for queens to mostly just talk about themselves. It works, though, especially Gala Varo, who does incredible stunts while singing about winning the crown. Even though she doesn’t, she’s so charismatic that you believe she should. She does win the challenge at least!

Pick’n’Mix – “B.D.E.” (UK Season 3)

Queens: River Medway, Vanity Milan, Ella Vaday, Choriza May

Performing a mid-tempo ballad version of “B.D.E” is set up like a trap, but Pick’n’Mix delivers a number that stands out from the rest of the girl group crowd. It’s saccharine and corny, sure – but this is Drag Race, and cheese is key. The choreo is simple yet effective, and whenever the group thrusts their chests forward (to every “uh uh”) is delightful. River Medway is the standout, delivering lovely vocal tones and lyrics that tug at the heartstrings (“Missing my mom but I know she’s up in heaven”).

SRV – “Bonjour, Hi” (Canada vs. the World Season 1)

Queens: Silky Nutmeg Ganache, Vanity Milan, Ra’jah O’Hara

Vanity Milan is one of the finest performers in Drag Race herstory. Just watch her tear up the stage in “SRV.” Her lyrics are memorable with a political twist (“Black queens are not the same / So remember my name”). The energy is through the roof; Silky’s declaration of “It’s a big silk celebration” is a joy, and Ra’Jah’s rapid flurry of lyrics is delicious.

Ovah Girls – “Superstar” (España All Stars Season 1)

Queens: Drag Sethlas, Samantha Ballentines, Juriji Der Klee

The pop version of “Superstar” is a gorgeous, layered track. These are super talented queens who inject their unique personalities into the lyrics, with Samantha delivering delicious camp and Juriji leaning into her sexpot with a dash of opera. It’s super catchy, regardless if you speak a word of Spanish or not.

M.S.T.R – “Titanic” (All Stars Season 7)

Queens: Shea Couleé, Raja, Trinity the Tuck, Monét X Change

Is it any surprise that a season full of winners would produce two of the best girl groups? It shouldn’t. Monét and Shea are impossibly talented, and they’re admittedly leagues ahead of fellow champions Trinity the Tuck and Raja. This is a banger of a breakup anthem. If this were on any other season, it would have been a slam-dunk victory for the ladies of M.S.T.R.

The Other Girls – “2getha 4eva” (All Stars Season 7)

Queens: Jaida Essence Hall, Yvie Oddly, The Vivienne, Jinkx Monsoon

…Except their competition was four other winners, and The Other Girls did what Ru loves most: they made him laugh. “2getha 4eva” is all about staying together, even if you’re long past your expiration date. It’s full of ridiculous lines, like Jaida’s “Just like diarrhea we’ve exploding in love” and Vivienne’s “He loves to love my double decker puss.” Yvie’s impersonation of a dial-up modem is so good it should be in the Smithsonian, and Jinkx continues to crush her old woman shtick (her long note is divine). If you place winners together, you really can’t lose.

Eliminated Queens – “Sitting on A Secret” (All Stars Season 3)

Queens: Thorgy Thor, Chi Chi De’Vayne, Aja, Milk, Morgan McMichaels

The eliminated queens of All Stars 3 came back with a vengeance, delivering a fierce and funny girl group number. The innuendo-filled song is silly, and the queens have a lot of fun here; Thorgy (as Cardio Kitty) is funny and appropriately high-energy, and Milk (Milky Kitty) redeems her baffling Season 6 girl group. But it’s Aja (Lil’Banjee) who obliterates this challenge, rapping about her “puss” while high-splitting and kicking. She’s mesmerizing, and deserved to be brought back into the competition.

The Slapbacks – “Tongue Pop” (Canada vs. the World Season 2)

Queens: Cheryl, Kennedy Davenport, Lemon

What’s so sickening about international All Stars seasons is that you get unthinkable collaborations like Cheryl from the UK, Lemon from Canada, and Kennedy Davenport from the US. They’re all phenomenal performances, and they blow the roof off of “Tongue Pop.” Not a beat is missed, they look gorgeous, and Lemon ices the competition with her bona fide rapstress verse: “Got ‘em on their tippies like Lynn Hytes Brooke” is pure gold.

Flexbomb Girls – “Pop Off Ate” (Philippines Season 1)

Queens: Turing, Marina Summers, Eva Le Queen, Brigiding, Lady Morgana

“Pop Off Ate” (which translates to “Pop Off Sis”) is an instant classic from the moment Turing shouts “Boom, Turing!” – and that’s the first line. The queens look fabulous in royal purples, and the choreo is flawless (Lady Morgana is a step behind, but she makes up for it with characterization). Marina’s verse is a mile-a-minute and so catchy her “snatch the crown” lyric isn’t even annoying.

Frock Destroyers – “Break Up (Bye Bye)” (UK Season 1)

Queens: Baga Chipz, Divina de Campo, Blu Hydrangea

Regular Drag Race collaborators Leland and Freddy did not have to go this hard when producing “Break Up (Bye Bye),” but we’re so grateful they did. The song is a ferocious and catchy break-up anthem. The Frock Destroyers were so good that the song charted in the UK Top 40, peaking at 35. It’s easy to hear why; Baga brings anal innuendos, Divina has a stunning verse and Mariah Carey-level whistle tones(!) and Blu rhymes home with home – and it works.

Thicc & Stick – “A.S.M.R. Lover” (RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 16)

Queens: Mh’iya Iman LePaige, Geneva Karr, Megami, Nymphia Wind

The fastest a challenge has ever been won: From the moment “Myeezi” is sung (the first lyric), Season 16’s girl group challenge is signed, sealed, and delivered. Every second of Thicc & Stick’s number is exquisite. The choreography is simple yet effective, and implementing actual ASMR is genius (the whispers of “Mh’iya, Mh’iya” are beyond infectious). The lyrics are terrific: “Down on your knees bitch pray to me / Cause Megami is the goddess that you pay to see” rolls off the tongue, and Geneva’s “If you wanna read there’ll be subtitles down here” is hilarious. It’s a major breakout moment for Mhi’ya, Geneva, and Megami, and further evidence that eventual season winner Nymphia is a superstar. It’s the best earworm of any American season.

The Top 5 All Stars – “Drag Up Your Life” (All Stars Season 3)

Queens: Trixie Mattel, Bebe Zahara Benet, Kennedy Davenport, Shangela, BenDeLaCreme

*Deep breath*: “Rakatatiti tata / Yeah I”m pussy bitch /Ooh la la la la la la / C’est bon C’est bon / Do ko cho ko Latala / You can’t take my snatch / Drag it up / Wild it up / Gimme more /Bring it to the ball / Ha ha ha ha!” Bebe Zahara Benet delivered pure magic (with a dose of madness) in her inexplicable yet massively memorable and instantly meme-able verse. Nobody would have complained if she had been crowned on the spot. Everyone gives their all in this; Trixie (Math Kitty) has terrific wordplay, BenDeLaCreme (Goth Kitty) delivers a full character, and Kennedy (Diva Kitty) dances the house down boots.

United Kingdolls – “UK Hun?” (UK Season 2)

Queens: Lawrence Chaney, Bimini Bon-Boulash, Tayce, A’Whora

Four drag queens went into a recording booth with producer MNEK, and the rest is history. The United Kingdolls version of “UK Hun?” was a smash everywhere, but especially in the UK, where it peaked at 27 on the Top 40 chart—the highest for any drag artist, beating even RuPaul’s own 1992 classic “Supermodel.”

It’s the best chorus in Drag Race history: “BING BANG BONG / SING SANG SONG / DING DANG DONG / UK HUN” has lived in minds rent-free since 2021. The verses are wall-to-wall brilliant and match the queens’ personalities to a T. It’s everything that makes girl group challenges so exciting: It’s campy, silly, sexy, and fun. (And yes, this version of “UK Hun?” was at the top of my Spotify Wrapped that year.)

Related

• Every Drag Race Rusical, Ranked
• Every Drag Race RuMix, Ranked
• RuPaul’s Drag Race Season-Premiere Recap: Several Points Were Made

 Yes, that includes international and All Star seasons.