Building the Band is a 2025 American reality music competition series hosted by AJ McLean and featuring mentor and judge Nicole Scherzinger. The show brings together a group of talented singers who must form the next big band, without ever seeing each other first. It’s all about the music, connection, and talent.
This Netflix reality series mixes feel-good competition with emotional moments, creativity, and performance. Contestants get full control over their band decisions, but can musical chemistry work without a face-to-face connection? With guest appearances from Kelly Rowland and Liam Payne (posthumously), the series explores teamwork, growth, and the power of music.
The show begins streaming on July 9, 2025, with new episodes released weekly. It is rated TV-14.
Building the Band Age Rating
Building the Band is rated TV-14 for some language and reality show drama. Below is a detailed, spoiler-free breakdown of the show’s content to help guide parents:
Reality Show Drama & Emotional Moments
The show includes common reality competition elements like arguments, emotional confessions, and intense rehearsals. Contestants may face pressure and moments of disappointment, but there is no bullying or abusive behavior. Most of the conflict is resolved in a positive way.
Language
Mild to moderate language is occasionally used during interviews or emotional moments. No explicit profanity or offensive slurs are present.
Themes of Teamwork & Identity
Themes include collaboration, self-expression, following dreams, and forming friendships. The “blind” element—choosing bandmates without seeing them—touches on inner values and musical identity over appearances. These are positive messages for teen audiences.
Is Building the Band Suitable for Teens?
Ages 10–12: Yes, with guidance. Younger tweens may enjoy the music and performances but may not connect with the emotional or strategic parts of the show. A parent’s presence for the first few episodes is a good idea.
Ages 13–17: Yes. Teen viewers will likely enjoy the inspiring performances, musical growth, and behind-the-scenes band drama. The messages of acceptance, teamwork, and passion make it a solid choice for older kids and teens.
Overall, Building the Band is a positive, youth-friendly show with limited conflict and uplifting themes. It’s suitable for teens and even some tweens with parental support.
What Parents Can Do
Watch Together: The show’s structure sparks good conversation about following dreams and managing group dynamics.
Talk About Appearance vs. Talent: Discuss how the “sight unseen” concept encourages deeper thinking about judgment and merit.
Encourage Creative Expression: If your teen is musically inclined, this show could be motivating or even a creative springboard.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for Building the Band?
A: The show is rated TV-14 for mild language and reality-style drama.
Q: Is Building the Band appropriate for kids?
A: Yes, for most tweens and teens. The show is feel-good, inspiring, and musically driven.
Q: Are there any intense or inappropriate scenes?
A: No. The drama is mild and mostly limited to disagreements or performance pressure.
Q: Is there any sexual content in the show?
A: No. The show focuses on music, competition, and teamwork, not romance or suggestive material.
Q: Where can I watch Building the Band?
A: The series premieres on Netflix starting July 9, 2025, with new episodes released weekly.