Kevin: "Backstreet Boys come from the Backstreet Markey in Orlando, Florida...it's like a flea market. When it's not a markey, it's a big open parking lot where people come together to hang out. Unfortunately they have recently built a new building on the lot, forcing people to relocate."

What are your greatest musical influences?

Nick: "Steve Perry from the dsibanded group 'Jorney,' also KC-I and Jojo."
Kevin: "My greatest influences include Prince, Elton John and Sting. I also like groups like Boyz II Men, New Edition, and the Temptations."
Howie: "I love all tyes of music, especially John Secada, Philip Bailey, and Bobby Brown."

What was the most embarrassing thing that occurred on a Backstreet tour?

Howie: "Once I fell off stage..."
Nick: (laughs and interrupts) "Yeah, and how about that time I got caught up with Obie our percussionist...or how about the time when A.J. got his shirt caught in the symbals and knocked the whole drum kit over during a show!
A.J.: "I was really embarrassed!"
Kevin: (sprinting to catch up with his four pals) "The airport made our mics malfunction in Hamburg, Germany. It's funny now, but looking back I think we were all very disappointed."

Lastly, how is Brian recovering from surgery?

Kevin: "Brian's surgery was a complete success and he is resting comfortabley. The doctors insist that his heart was in better condition than they orginally believed. Both Brian and his family went to extend their tanks to everyone for their prayers and support."

Well, that's all for now. Maybe we'll be able to catch the Backstreet Boys with Brian during their greatly anticipated summer tour beginning this July in Charlottesville, New York.

- Celebrity Series Present

June 1998