Formed in 1993 in Orlando, Florida, the Backstreet Boys, often known as BSB, are an American boy band that rose to fame with their infectious pop harmonies and captivating performances. Comprising Nick Carter, Howie Dorough, AJ McLean, and cousins Brian Littrell and Kevin Richardson, the group has sold over 130 million records worldwide, becoming one of the best-selling music artists globally. Their journey from local auditions to international stardom is marked by timeless hits like “I Want It That Way” and “Everybody (Backstreet’s Back),” defining the boy band era of the late ’90s and early 2000s.
Key Information
| Member | Birthday | Birthplace | Net Worth | Spouse |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nick Carter | January 28, 1980 | Jamestown, New York | $35 million | Lauren Kitt |
| Howie Dorough | August 22, 1973 | Orlando, Florida | $20 million | Leigh Boniello |
| AJ McLean | January 9, 1978 | West Palm Beach, Florida | $20 million | Rochelle DeAnna Karidis |
| Brian Littrell | February 20, 1975 | Lexington, Kentucky | $45 million | Leighanne Wallace |
| Kevin Richardson | October 3, 1971 | Lexington, Kentucky | $40 million | Kristin Willits |
Basic Information
The Backstreet Boys, known worldwide as BSB, is an iconic American boy band formed in 1993 in Orlando, Florida, by Lou Pearlman. The group consists of Nick Carter, Howie Dorough, AJ McLean, and cousins Kevin Richardson and Brian Littrell. They rose to fame with their international debut album, Backstreet Boys (1996), which was followed by their second international album, Backstreet’s Back (1997), and their self-titled U.S. debut album, Backstreet Boys (1997). Their success continued with their third studio album Millennium (1999), featuring the global hit “I Want It That Way,” and its follow-up Black & Blue (2000). They released a greatest hits album, The Hits – Chapter One (2001), after which Richardson left the group for a two-year hiatus, only to return in 2012.
Education and Early Life
- Nick Carter: Born in Jamestown, New York, Nick was the youngest member of the group. He began performing at a young age, appearing in talent shows and local theater productions. He moved to Orlando, Florida, at the age of 12 to pursue a career in music.
- Howie Dorough: Born in Orlando, Howie attended University High School. He was involved in several musical activities during his school years, including choir and drama club. He also had minor roles in films and advertisements before joining BSB.
- AJ McLean: Originally from West Palm Beach, AJ moved to Orlando to pursue acting and music. He attended Dr. Phillips High School, where he was active in performing arts.
- Brian Littrell: From Lexington, Kentucky, Brian grew up in a close-knit family with a strong faith background. He attended Tates Creek High School, where he was known for his singing talent, often performing at school events.
- Kevin Richardson: Born in Lexington, Kentucky, Kevin was the oldest member of BSB. He attended Eastern Kentucky University but left to pursue a career in entertainment. He moved to Orlando to audition for various bands and eventually joined the Backstreet Boys.
Professional and Life Achievements
- Nick Carter: Released solo albums, including Now or Never (2002) and All American (2015). He has appeared on reality TV shows like House of Carters and Dancing with the Stars. Nick has also been open about his addiction struggles and recovery.
- Howie Dorough: Released a solo album Back to Me (2011). He co-founded the Dorough Lupus Foundation in honor of his sister who passed away from lupus. Known for his philanthropy and family life.
- AJ McLean: Pursued solo projects with Have It All (2010). He has been vocal about his battles with addiction and has used his platform to advocate for mental health and sobriety.
- Brian Littrell: Released a Christian music album, Welcome Home (2006). He is known for his faith-based approach to life and music, and his son, Baylee, has followed in his footsteps with a career in music and acting.
- Kevin Richardson: Took a hiatus from BSB to pursue acting, including a role in the Broadway production Chicago. He returned to the group in 2012, contributing to their continued success.
Awards
The Backstreet Boys have received numerous awards, including:
- American Music Awards: Multiple wins for Favorite Pop/Rock Band/Duo/Group.
- Billboard Music Awards: Several Billboard Century Award nominations and wins.
- World Music Awards: Best Selling Pop Group, Best Selling American Group, and more.
- Hollywood Walk of Fame: The group received a star in 2013.
Chronological Timeline of Life Events
- 1993: Formation of Backstreet Boys in Orlando, Florida.
- 1996: Release of their international debut album Backstreet Boys.
- 1997: Release of Backstreet’s Back and U.S. debut album Backstreet Boys.
- 1999: Release of Millennium, featuring the hit “I Want It That Way.”
- 2000: Release of Black & Blue and a worldwide tour.
- 2001: Release of the greatest hits album The Hits – Chapter One.
- 2005: Release of Never Gone after a two-year hiatus.
- 2006: Kevin Richardson leaves the group.
- 2012: Kevin Richardson rejoins the group permanently.
- 2013: Release of In a World Like This to celebrate their 20th anniversary.
- 2019: Release of DNA, debuting at number one on the Billboard 200 chart.
- 2022: Release of their first Christmas album, A Very Backstreet Christmas.
Cultural and Social Background
The Backstreet Boys were formed during a time when boy bands were becoming a global phenomenon. Their music and image were shaped by the pop culture of the late 90s and early 2000s, which emphasized harmony, choreography, and a clean-cut image. Their impact on pop culture includes:
- Music: Their albums have sold over 130 million records worldwide, making them the best-selling boy band of all time.
- Fashion: They influenced fashion trends with their stylish outfits, contributing to the “boy band” aesthetic.
- Media: They became a staple in music videos, TV appearances, and magazines, setting a standard for celebrity band interactions with fans.
Relationships, Hobbies, and Interests
- Nick Carter: Married to Lauren Kitt, has three children. Nick enjoys playing video games, and he has a passion for comic books and martial arts.
- Howie Dorough: Married to Leigh Boniello, has two sons. Howie is involved in charity work, and he enjoys golfing, fishing, and spending time with his family.
- AJ McLean: Married to Rochelle DeAnna Karidis, has two daughters. AJ has a love for tattoos, motorcycles, and he’s known for his unique fashion sense.
- Brian Littrell: Married to Leighanne Wallace, has one son, Baylee. Brian is deeply religious, enjoys hunting, and supports various Christian charities.
- Kevin Richardson: Married to Kristin Willits, has two sons. Kevin is an environmentalist, enjoys outdoor activities like hiking, and has ventured into acting and Broadway.
Quotes and Anecdotes
- Nick Carter: “We’re here to stay, and we’re going to keep making music that touches people’s hearts.”
- Howie Dorough: “Our fans are the reason we keep going. They’ve grown with us, and we’ve grown with them.”
- AJ McLean: “I’ve faced my demons, and I stand here today stronger than ever. It’s all about the journey.”
- Brian Littrell: “Faith has always been a cornerstone of my life. It’s what keeps me grounded amidst the chaos of fame.”
- Kevin Richardson: “Returning to the group was like coming home. There’s nothing like the bond we share.”
Did you Know?
- The Backstreet Boys are the first group since Led Zeppelin to have their first ten albums reach the top 10 on the Billboard 200.
- They are the only boy band to have a number one album in three different decades.
- The group has been active for 31 years as of their 30th anniversary in 2023.
- Nick Carter was originally cast in the role of Sean in Dancer, Texas Population 81 but had to drop out due to scheduling conflicts with BSB.