Brian Littrell Gets Honest About NSYNC vs. Backstreet Boys

Navigating the Backstreet Boys and NSYNC Dynamics: A Candid Conversation

Hey Andy! I just wanted to express my excitement about having the opportunity to chat with you and the Backstreet Boys. It’s like, “OMG times ten!” So, my burning question is for all of you.

Given that Lou Pearlman created your group and there was this major competition with NSYNC, were there any NSYNC songs that you guys were upset got offered to them first?

Nick Carter, ever the open book, jumped right in, sharing a fascinating tidbit about their early days. Apparently, one of NSYNC’s first singles, “Tearin’ Up My Heart,” was initially offered to the Backstreet Boys. The song was produced by the renowned Max Martin, who had worked on several of their hits. However, they made the decision to turn it down.

But, as AJ McLean pointed out, the dynamics between the two groups were more complex than a simple competition. They were like brothers, on different teams but still part of the same family.

This healthy competition, as they described it, allowed both groups to push each other to greater heights.

However, Brian Littrell decided to break it down further, offering a candid perspective on the industry dynamics during that time.

He acknowledged that when the Backstreet Boys turned down opportunities, NSYNC often seized them. This aspect added a layer of pressure and competition, but it was all part of the shared journey.

As Kevin Richardson chimed in, the management’s role became evident. Both groups were managed by the same management company, leading to a bit of wild leveraging during negotiations. The exhaustion and wear and tear from years of hard work sometimes influenced the decisions made.

In the end, the message was clear – despite the occasional tensions and pressures, there was a deep sense of love and camaraderie between the individual members of both groups. The Backstreet Boys and NSYNC were part of a unique moment in pop music history, and their shared experiences forged bonds that transcended the rivalry narrative.

And with that, the conversation concluded, leaving fans with a glimpse into the intricate dynamics of pop music during the Backstreet Boys and NSYNC era. It’s a testament to their enduring friendship and the resilience that helped them navigate the complexities of the industry.

As the interview ended, the echoes of their journey reverberated through the air, reminding everyone that behind the glitz and glamour, there were real stories of hard work, decisions, and the unmistakable bond that ties the Backstreet Boys and NSYNC together in the tapestry of music history.