An Honest Conversation with the Backstreet Boys: Baseball, Dance, and Bodyguards

In 1999, Nick Carter, AJ McLean, Brian Littrell, Kevin Richardson, and Howie Dorough were on the cusp of something monumental. Their album, *Millennium*, was poised to redefine their careers, even though they’d already experienced global success. The weight of expectation, the potential for a sophomore slump, was palpable, yet they navigated it successfully. Richardson reflects on the pressures of the time, emphasizing the uncertainty of continuing success.

Carter, the youngest member at the time, recalls the vibrant pop culture landscape of the late 90s, describing it as a golden age for the music industry. The energy of live performances and shows like *TRL* fueled their success.

Looking back, the longevity of their careers surprises even them. Carter explains their consistent success as a product of hard work and a genuine love for music, resulting in a career built album by album, song by song.

More than six years after their Las Vegas residency ended, the Backstreet Boys are back, celebrating *Millennium* with a re-release (*Millennium 2.0*) and a new residency at the Sphere. Dorough highlights the group’s ambition to surpass their prior Vegas success, recognizing the Sphere as the perfect venue to achieve this goal.

The origins of the Sphere residency are fascinating. Richardson credits his son’s impending graduation for prompting a shift toward a Vegas residency, balancing the demands of their careers with family life. Carter also expresses excitement about the Sphere, anticipating a transformative show.

The band acknowledges the evolution of their fan interactions, while the intensity remains the same. McLean humorously points out their reliance on “fancy bodyguards” to manage enthusiastic fans, even years later, and Richardson adds a humorous observation regarding the size of items thrown on stage.

Addressing the natural effects of aging, Littrell confidently asserts that their age doesn’t limit their performance capabilities; the DNA World Tour served as proof of their ongoing stamina and dedication.

Maintaining their high-energy dance routines requires significant effort. Carter emphasizes their unwavering commitment to 100% performance, even acknowledging the use of necessary support, while Dorough jokingly compares post-show remedies.

Richardson details the rigorous self-care strategies used to preserve their health and performance, including chiropractic care, ice therapy, massage, and cryotherapy.

The vocal aspect of their performance remains paramount. McLean explains the importance of vocal health, outlining their methods for voice care, including herbal teas and strategic vocal rest.

Littrell discusses his vocal tension dysphonia diagnosis and his ongoing management of the condition through therapy, emphasizing it as a continuous process.

The group shares their perspectives on tribute bands, finding amusement in instances where other artists perform their music. The conversations turn to their children, their shared activities, and the budding talents among them.

McLean expresses his overwhelming emotion at witnessing Baylee Littrell’s performance on *American Idol*, highlighting Baylee’s talent and professional approach.

Littrell reveals that the *Idol* experience wasn’t initially his idea for Baylee but expresses pride in his son’s achievement and upcoming single release.

The conversation extends to other children in the group, their diverse artistic pursuits, and the potential for future generations of musical talent.

Carter describes his experience coaching his son’s Little League team and the surprising interactions he has with people who attended his concerts years prior.

The possibility of a future collaboration with *NSYNC* is discussed, with Carter mentioning internal conversations and the success of their past collaboration with New Kids on the Block.

McLean and Richardson acknowledge the history of playful disagreements within the group, emphasizing that their bond transcends any occasional conflicts, ultimately reinforcing their mutual love and respect.