| It’s hard to believe that
15 years have passed since Backstreet Boys redefined the modern
musical landscape, ushering in a chapter of pop culture that commandeered
the world’s radio airwaves, broke music and concert sales
records, and launched a new generation of teen idols for millions
of youth. You were there: Remember the cool, silken harmonies, the
passion-fueled mania that followed their every move? Perhaps you
even had a BSB poster on your wall.
In all, the group has sold more than 75 million albums worldwide.
Their first two U.S. releases both received the Diamond Award for
sales of more than 10 million: “Backstreet Boys” in
1997 and quintessential “Millennium” in 1999, which
reached No. 1 in 25 countries. They have scored a dozen top 40 hits,
including top 5 smashes “Quit Playing Games (with My Heart),”
“As Long As You Love Me,” Everybody (Backstreet’s
Back)” and “All I Have To Give.”
A lot has changed since 1997, when we first got to know the five
singers comprising Backstreet Boys: Nick Carter, Howie Dorough,
Brian Littrell, AJ McLean and Kevin Richardson. Today, like their
fans, they have grown up and started families, recorded solo projects,
and appeared on the Broadway stage, all while dealing with the trials
and tribulations that accompany fame at an early age, including
substance abuse, management snafus and even major health issues.
Also notably, in 2006, Richardson amicably decided to exit the group,
with the full blessing of his teammates.
|