Backstreet Boys celebrating 20 years of pop success

by Scott Kiefer

In the midst of their 20th anniversary and the In A World Like This Tour, the Backstreet Boys, including all original members Nick Carter, Howie Dorough, Brian Littrell, AJ McLean and Kevin Richardson, begin their North American tour Friday in Chicago, and bring the party to St. Louis to Verizon Wireless Amphitheater Saturday with special guests Jesse McCartney, and DJ Pauly D.

The group also released their latest album, In A World Like This on July 30, which includes the title track as the first single. The album was recorded in London and Los Angeles with producers / fans Martin Terefe, Max Martin, Morgan Reid & Prophet, Dan Muckula and Justin Trugman.

In classic Backstreet Boys fashion, the group goes back to the sound that made them superstars in the 1990's with a grooving pop sound and high energy reminiscent of their hey-day, yet being extremely current. 

“We always want to top our previous albums. That’s always our objective” says Carter. “All five of us were determined to create an album where every song could be a single."

“Our goal is always to push ourselves as much as possible,” adds McLean. “We want Backstreet Boys to keep setting the template and raising the bar.”

Earlier this year, the band welcomed back Kevin Richardson to the fold, solidifying their reputation as the best-selling boy band of all time.

“We couldn’t be happier to have our brother back with us” says Carter.

“Being back with my brothers again feels great. I love these guys. We have gone through so much together. We just have a chemistry … a bond that will always be," Richardson says.

 The group will make their first official performance together with Kevin on Good Morning America’s “Summer Concert Series” on Friday, August 31st. This special concert in Central Park is free and open to the public.

Along with the release of their new album, Backstreet Boys have been honored with a star on the legendary Hollywood Walk Of Fame in Los Angeles, CA. The honorable star will bring everlasting memories of their star power, talent, and popularity to the millions who visit this internationally recognized Hollywood icon each year.

Over the last 20 years, the Backstreet Boys have sold more than 130 million albums worldwide and ushered in a chapter of pop culture that commandeered the world’s radio airwaves, broke music and concert sales records, and launched a new generation of teen idols.

Who: The Backstreet Boys

When: Saturday, August 2

Where: Verizon Wireless Amphitheater

Tickets: $26 -$75; plus Pit Seats available

How: www. livenation.com; www.ticketmaster.com