In a world full of imitations, the Backstreet Boys are definitely not just another fabricated, bubblegum-pop boy-band, but are a multi-talented group of real musicians. With each Backstreet Boy having his own unique experiences in such areas as: acting, singing, modeling, and playing instruments, it is obvious that it would add flavor to their phenomenal voices, and lead them to fame and fortune. Honestly, looking at them for the first time with their country, down to earth, all American boy image, I thought they were out of their heads.
Eventually, their vocal abilities and their passion for music changed my mind, stated their former manager, Johnny Wright on VH1 Music Television. Although it may seem as if success was easily handed over to them, these five regular guys from Orlando, Florida experienced many struggles on their bumpy road to the top. They are liked and have such a huge following because of the diverse group of boys represented, Kayla Jones stated in a personal interview.
Despite their success in being number one in thirty-eight different countries, each member had his fair share of struggles before reaching his status in the Backstreet Boys (Gold Collectors Series Entertainment Magazine). Leaving their mark on the world was not as easy as it may seem. Each member comes from a different background with influences ranging from Latin to even Blackfoot Indian (Krulik, 11). What brings such a young and talented group of guys together is their love and passion for music and the stage.
Ashufta 2 Nicholas Gene Carter, better known as Nick from the Backstreet Boys, was born in Jamestown, New York on January 28, 1980 (Golden 61). Being born in the same hospital as Lucille Ball, it was inevitable that he was destined for a career in show business. Shortly after his birth, his family moved to a dream house in Orlando, Florida. It was there that Nick truly developed his skills and desires for the entertainment world.
He experienced the different aspects of show business including: singing for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers halftime shows, acting in Phantom of the Opera, winning talent shows, and even working for Nickelodeon and the Disney Channel (Golden 64). Despite of his accomplishments, he was still unsatisfied and was determined to discover his ideal job in the spotlight. The rebel of the Backstreet Boys, Alexander James (A. J. ) McLean was born on January 9, 1978 in West Palm Beach, Florida. He was an extremely energetic bundle of joy! exclaims A. J. other, Denise (Erlewine AMG All Music).
Even though his parents divorced when he was only four years old, A. J. s desire for the spotlight didnt fade, but flourished. After playing Dopey in his Pre-School production of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, his mind was set on what he wanted to be a part of for the rest of his life, the entertainment business. As his teenage years approached, he became more and more involved with Nickelodeon and local theater, winning role in The King and I, Fiddler on the Roof, and even The Nutcracker (Golden 50).
They write many songs for themselves and other artists, including more than half of the songs in their album Black and Blue. An artist is A person who does anything well with a form or effect, (Websters Dictionary) therefore Backstreet Boys are considered artists. The Backstreet Boys are looked upon as a clean-cut, innocent, and emotionless prefabricated boy band whose popularity has ridiculously exploited. What people ignore to recognize is that theyre as much as anyone else, and that their fame comes with a heavy price.
While busy on the road, Kevins father passed away along with Howies sister, and A. J. s grandmother, which lead him to have treatment for depression and alcoholism. Being on the road gives us very little, if any, opportunity for relationships, complained Brian in the video interview of A Night Out With The Backstreet Boys. Despite their complaints, Backstreet Boys obviously found time for relationships, fans, and their families because cousins Brian and Kevin wedded the love of their lives in 2000.
With all their accomplishments behind them, a greatest hits album on its way, and their newest release debuting at number sixty-nine on the Billboard Charts, they should have a bright future ahead of them. However, some peoples opinions, such as Kayla Jones, may differ. I dont think they possess the ability to transcend the trends and changes of an ever-changing industry. Nothing lasts forever. Teen girls wont like synchronized dancing forty-something year old men singing Oh baby girl Their fifteen minutes of fame may have lasted a while, but the clock is still ticking (Personal interview).
That may be true, but even if their success comes to an end, theyve gained many friendships, learned many lessons, gained loads of cash, and made world history. If the Backstreet Boys can overcome A. J. s alcoholism, be known as positive figures throughout the world, and still come on top, it is obvious that they can and will be around for many years to come. Nick assures the fans in an interview with MTV, Even if it ends today, we will go on knowing weve gained so much in so many ways, but I dont think itll endunless one of us dies.