The Backstreet Boys Front and Center

(YM, January 2000)

Who's defining the musical moment at the turn of the Millennium? BSB. Here, a Larger-than-Life appreciation.

Anyone, anywhere on the plant, who's been within earshot of a radio lately knows there's been a revolution. That is: life before the Backstreet Boys, and life after.

Not that the final years of the old millennium weren't bursting with talent--from Ricky Martin to Lauryn Hill, from Will Smith to Mariah Carey--but BSB have crossed the line from mega-hitmeisters to international phenomena. Plus, they've spawned a movement of boy bands who, inspired by Backstreet's strength, went on to forge their own unique sounds and stage presences: 'N Sync, 98º, LFO, No Authority...and there are boudn to be even more by the time you turn this page.

What kind of musical mojo has us all humming their hits and tapping our toes? Powerhouse pop critics find themselves gushing, describing the "melodic claws" of BSB's songs; praising their "impassioned harmoines"; and calling their sound "graceful," "soulful," and "hymnlike." Millions of fans have responed with a resound "Amen!" by buying their sophomore album, aptly named Millennium, in record-breaking numbers. Their U.S. tour, sweeping the nation right now, has sold out city by city, literally in minutes. Their cool and classy videos drop onto MTV like A-bombs, blowing all other TRL competitors out of the water. Which explains why BSB have won millions of fans, all utterly Boy-bonded with Street-smart. BSB's songs are the anthems of a generation. Their music has become the sound track for the new millennium, and fans are more than willing to follow wherever they lead.

  • "I never get tired of listening to any of BSB's songs. Most of them match my moods, whether I have a major crush or I'm going through some heartbreak."~Carrie White, 15

  • "Backstreet Boys are the best band of '99--they are positive role models. They're fun and very talented. I'd love to kiss A.J.--his voice is so soulful, it's a turn-on."~Megan Williams, 19

  • "Backstreet Boys are the best boy band--they have a lot of unique songs. Brian is my favorite--he gets into the fans."~Melanie LaValley, 16

  • "Backstreet Boys are so hot, and they love their fans. I love 'I Want it That Way.' You hear the song, and you understand love."~Fabiola Rodriguez, 14

  • "Nick rocks--he has a great voice and is so adorable."~Marisa Landolfi, 15

  • "Howie D. looks sweet. He is Hispanic, like me. I like that he includes his culture in the music, like in 'Spanish Eyes.'"~Gretta Gibson, 13

  • "I love when Brian sings on 'All I Have to Give.' When I hear it, it makes me feel like there are still nice guys left out there."~Irene Gousseinouq, 15

  • "My favorite BSB is Kevin. He's cute, mature, and he can groove."~Krystal Mosby, 19

  • "It's so inspiring the Backstreet Boys dedicated a song to their fans. A lot of artists around today don't care about their fans, but BSB have sincerity."~Anelise Lieurence, 19

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