BACKSTREET BOYS: Ego Check - BB May 00
Has superstardom changed these "Larger Than Life" tunesters?
Has this ever happened to you: The guy who was so nice to you in science class lands the starring role in a school play and suddenly he won't give you the time of day? Fortunately, the talented balladeers of the Backstreet Boys -- Kevin Richardon, Brian Littrell, Nick Carter, Howie Dorough and A.J. McLean -- are nothing like that. These down-to-earth dudes may be bowling fans over with tunes like "Show Me The Meaning of Being Lonely" from their funky-fresh 1999 CD,
Millennium, but they're still the sweet boys-next-door that they were with the release of their 1997 debut album.
Throughout their musical journey, many life lessons were learned -- especially for 25-year-old Brian. In the midst of the group's rollercoaster ride to success, this blue-eyed babe had to undergo heart surgery in 1998. B-Rok is now healthier and stronger than ever and sees his life in a whole new light. "There's things that used to be taken for granted that aren't now," he's confided. "Time with your family, time to enjoy the fruits of your labor."
"I'm going every which way"
Although Bri's 28-year-old Kentucky cousin, Kevin, may be the eldest of the Backstreet bunch, he isn't exactly the most
outspoken songster of the group. Despite years of performing with his groupmates and being in the public eye, this green-eyed
hearthrob hasn't quite overcome the shy personality he's always had. "I guess I'm more the 'internal' type than the other guys,"
quiet, thoughtful Kev has revealed.
On the other end of the spectrum is outgoing and freespirited A.J., who has always enjoyed trying new things -- and success
hasn't changed this rebellious 22-year-old one bit. "I'm an abstract person," the Florida native with the playful brown eyes has proclaimed. "I'm like a Picasso painting--I'm going every which way." But hardworking A.J. admits that making music and
performing with the guys still keeps him grounded.
The blondest Backstreet babe is 20-year-old Nick, who's been singing harmony with the group since the tender age of 12. He
may be a lot taller and have a deeper voice these days, but those sparkling blue eyes of his reflect the same sensitive soul he's
always had. "Just a little kindness can make such an impact," Nick has professed.
Howie definitely agrees. Though this slicked-back style may give him a bad boy look, this 26-year-old has always had a heart
of gold, putting his family and fans first. "I'm really a good guy," he's pleaded. "Everyone calls me Sweet D!" And this funny,
fun-lovin' fella has a message for all of his female fans: "Howie's single and always lookin'."
See, the Backstreet Boys haven't changed -- they've just gotten bigger and better. Kinda makes you want to break into a
chorus of "I Want It That Way", doesn't it?