The Backstreet Boys... Talk About Their Life On Tour
The Backstreet Boys have spent a considerable portion of their career promoting themselves, but it's difficult to determine just how much of this great big world they have actually seen. Most of the boys' time is spent at concert venues, in hotel rooms and visiting record shops to keep their fans happy. When the whole world wants a glimpse or a peek of you, chances at living a peaceful and private life are pretty slim.

As Howie explains, the band always tries to see the sights when visiting a new country for the first time, but more often than not, the only view they have access to is their hotel room. Despite that, the Boys credit much of their success o oversea countries. In the first year or two, the Boys' efforts were concentrated mainly on Europe, and it was in Germany that the group's debut album first achieved platinum status: Outside the States, it sold a total of five-and-a-half million copies. The Boys even admit to spending more time in Germany and other European countries simply because they are in such great demand there.

As for the fans in foreign countries, the Boys say they can get a bit wild, sometimes even pushing the limit. Kevin recalls an occasion in Spain when a crazed fan tore his necklace off him after a live radio show. The necklace was a Christmas gift from his brother, so needless to say, Kevin was pretty upset by the whole incident. AJ, known as the ham of the group, doesn't mind the attention at all. In fact, he says the noise makes him dizzy and that it's an amazing feeling to know the fans are screaming for them. Nick, on the other hand, admits to being embarrassed by the sometimes rather suggestive signs and banners at the Boys' concerts, but all the attention is still flattering.

Outside Europe, the next best place for BsB lovers is Canada. The Canadians are reportedly the Boys' most aggressive fans. Even the spotlight lovin' AJ had a mishap when his foot was accidentally crushed while he was trying to get away from a frenzy of fans. Poor AJ had to hobble around on stage, but of course that didn't stop him from singing his heart out. Their debut album went six times platinum and reached Number 1 on the Canadian charts, while tickets for the 32 shows they were playing sold out in a record breaking 20 minutes.

Last Christmas was the first time since their debut that the Boys were able to spend at home. And no matter how much their oversea fans love them, the Boys still prefer to keep it close to home. Brian especially misses America the most when the guys are on tour. He says that although it is exciting to perform for people all over the world, they always wanted to bring their sound home to the States. And we couldn't be happier!

- Hit Sensations

August 1998

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