The Backstreet Boys are an American vocal group that rose to fame in the late 1990s and early 2000s. The group was formed in Orlando, Florida in 1993, and it consisted of five members: A.J. McLean, Howie Dorough, Nick Carter, Kevin Richardson, and Brian Littrell. The Backstreet Boys achieved massive commercial success with their blend of pop, R&B, and dance music, and they became one of the best-selling boy bands of all time, with over 130 million records sold worldwide.
The group’s signature harmonies and catchy melodies helped them to dominate the charts with hits like “I Want It That Way,” “Everybody (Backstreet’s Back),” and “Quit Playing Games (with My Heart).” They were also known for their high-energy live performances and elaborate music videos, which helped to cement their status as pop culture icons.
Although the Backstreet Boys experienced some setbacks in the early 2000s, including the departure of Kevin Richardson, they continued to release new music and tour extensively. In recent years, the group has experienced a resurgence in popularity, with a new generation of fans discovering their music and attending their concerts.
The Backstreet Boys remain one of the most successful and influential boy bands of all time, and their legacy in the world of pop music continues to be celebrated by fans around the globe.
1. Everybody (Backstreet’s Back)
Released in 1997, “Everybody (Backstreet’s Back)” is the lead single from the Backstreet Boys’ second album, “Backstreet’s Back”. The song quickly became a hit, peaking at number four on the Billboard Hot 100 and topping the charts in many other countries. The music video, featuring the band as zombies in a haunted house, became an iconic part of pop culture in the late 90s. The song itself is an uptempo dance-pop track with a catchy chorus and a driving beat, showcasing the Backstreet Boys’ signature harmonies and pop sensibilities. “Everybody (Backstreet’s Back)” remains a fan favorite and a staple of the boy band’s live performances.
2. The One
“The One” by Backstreet Boys is a romantic ballad that showcases the group’s signature harmonies and catchy melodies. The song was released in 2000 as the third single from their album “Black & Blue.” It features lyrics about finding the one true love and how they complete you in every way. The track’s soaring chorus and heartfelt vocals make it a fan favorite, and it reached the top ten in several countries including the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. “The One” is a timeless love song that has stood the test of time and remains a classic in the boy band canon.
3. Larger Than Life
“Larger Than Life” is a classic pop hit by the Backstreet Boys, released in 1999. The song features upbeat dance beats and catchy lyrics that encourage listeners to dream big and embrace their inner strength. It became a massive hit for the group, reaching the top 10 in several countries and cementing their status as pop music icons. “Larger Than Life” remains one of the Backstreet Boys’ most popular and recognizable songs, and it continues to be a favorite among fans of the group and fans of pop music in general.
4. As Long As You Love Me
“As Long As You Love Me” is a classic Backstreet Boys hit that showcases their signature sound of upbeat, catchy pop with soulful harmonies. The song is about a man trying to convince his lover to stay with him despite any flaws or mistakes he may make, as long as she still loves him. The track features a pulsing beat and a memorable guitar riff, which are complemented by the group’s smooth vocals. Released in 1997, “As Long As You Love Me” quickly became a fan favorite and remains a beloved song for many Backstreet Boys fans to this day.
5. Quit Playing Games with My Heart
“Quit Playing Games with My Heart” is a classic 90s boy band hit by the Backstreet Boys. The song features smooth harmonies, catchy hooks, and relatable lyrics about a tumultuous relationship. The melancholic melody of the verses contrasts with the uplifting chorus, creating a perfect balance of emotions. The memorable music video showcases the band performing in a deserted street, with each member showcasing their signature moves and charming personalities. The song helped establish the Backstreet Boys as a household name and remains a fan favorite to this day.
6. I Want It That Way
“I Want It That Way” is a timeless pop ballad by the Backstreet Boys, released in 1999. The song features heartfelt lyrics that express the confusion and uncertainty of a relationship, set to a soaring melody and lush harmonies. It became a massive hit for the group, reaching the top of the charts in several countries and solidifying their status as one of the biggest boy bands in history. “I Want It That Way” remains a beloved classic to this day, and its timeless appeal has made it a favorite of fans of all ages and musical tastes.
7. More Than That
“More Than That” is a mid-tempo pop ballad by the Backstreet Boys, released in 2001 as a single from their album “Black & Blue”. The song showcases the group’s harmonies and showcases their vocal range. It features a slower beat than many of their other hits and has a romantic theme about going beyond surface-level connections and striving for deeper intimacy in relationships. The music video, shot in black and white, shows the group performing in a grandiose setting, with each member getting their own solo shots. “More Than That” is often cited as one of the Backstreet Boys’ more underrated tracks.
8. I’ll Never Break Your Heart
“I’ll Never Break Your Heart” is a ballad by American boy band Backstreet Boys. Released as the second single from their debut album in 1995, the song showcases the band’s signature harmonies and romantic lyrics. The song was a commercial success, reaching the top 40 in several countries including the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. The music video features the group performing the song in a dimly lit room, with individual shots of each member in dramatic black and white. The song’s heartfelt lyrics and smooth vocal delivery have cemented it as a fan favorite and enduring classic.
9. All I Have to Give
“All I Have to Give” is a romantic ballad by the Backstreet Boys, released in 1998. The song features heartfelt lyrics that express the depth of love and commitment that the singer has for their significant other, set to a catchy melody and smooth harmonies. It became a fan favorite and charted well, both in the United States and internationally. “All I Have to Give” showcases the Backstreet Boys’ signature sound and their ability to craft pop songs that touch the hearts of listeners everywhere. It remains a classic in the group’s catalog and a favorite among fans of all ages.
10. Show Me The Meaning of Being Lonely
“Show Me The Meaning of Being Lonely” by the Backstreet Boys is a poignant ballad that explores the pain of isolation and loss. The song opens with a melancholic piano riff that sets the tone for the emotive vocals. The lyrics describe the emptiness and confusion of losing someone close and struggling to cope with the void they leave behind. The chorus is a plea for understanding and connection, asking for someone to show the narrator the true meaning of being alone. The song’s lush harmonies and soaring melodies make it a standout ballad from the Backstreet Boys’ discography.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
