In a recent interview, the Backstreet Boys, the iconic boy band that has shaped the pop music landscape for over two decades, took a trip down memory lane to address some persistent myths and share untold stories. The conversation covered everything from near-membership of Ryan Gosling to stage names and rivalry rumors.
The laughter echoed as the host dove into the first myth – the rumor that heartthrob actor Ryan Gosling was almost a member of the Backstreet Boys. AJ McLean, one of the band members, recounted the days when they all lived in the same apartment complex during Gosling’s “The Mickey Mouse Club” days. Basketball games were a regular occurrence, and McLean reminisced about trying to convince Gosling of the band’s impending success. Gosling, skeptical at the time, didn’t foresee the global phenomenon that the Backstreet Boys would become.
The truth? While not an official member, Gosling’s connection with the band during those early days sparked humor and camaraderie among the guys.
**Myth 2: Tony Denetti – A Backstreet Boy?**
The revelation of a stage name, Tony Denetti, surfaced next. Howie Dorough confessed to adopting this alias during his early teenage years. Dorough explained how a manager, dissatisfied with the name Howard Dorough, rebranded him as the Italian-sounding Tony Denetti. Laughter ensued as the band members reminisced about the quirks of the name, with Dorough confirming that Tony Denetti was swiftly retired.
**Myth 3: Backstreet Boys vs. NSYNC Rivalry?**
Perhaps one of the most enduring pop culture rivalries of the late ’90s and early 2000s was the supposed feud between the Backstreet Boys and NSYNC. The band members clarified that, contrary to popular belief, there was never a genuine rivalry between the two groups. The only rivalry McLean could recall was the friendly competition surrounding a performance opportunity at the Super Bowl. The Backstreet Boys opted for the national anthem over the halftime show, a decision they considered more prestigious.
As the band emphasized, both groups were simply pursuing their dreams, and any rivalry was more a product of media sensationalism than reality.
**The DNA World Tour and Beyond**
The interview also touched upon the ongoing DNA World Tour, which has taken the Backstreet Boys across the globe, offering fans a journey through 26 years of their musical legacy. With a setlist featuring 32 songs, the tour is a testament to their enduring popularity and the fans’ unwavering support.
Despite the challenges of an ever-evolving music industry, the Backstreet Boys continue to captivate audiences with their talent and energy. The interview concluded with an invitation to catch the North American leg of the DNA World Tour, underscoring the band’s commitment to delivering unforgettable performances.
As the myths were debunked and memories shared, the Backstreet Boys left fans with a renewed appreciation for their remarkable journey and an eagerness to witness the next chapter of their enduring success.
