On April 20, 1993, Kevin, Howie, Brian, AJ and Nick became the Backstreet Boys. Five guys worked their way out of Orlando, FL to stages around the world.
They kept working and working…
…Until they changed millions of lives with their music, their stories, and the human beings that they are.
In 2017, we are celebrating the success they’ve had as a group for the past 24 years. They’ve been through public ups and downs, losing a member and getting him back, album after album, tour after tour, weddings, babies, health issues and more.
For 24 years, they’ve had each other’s backs.
They’ve been each other’s family.
In turn, they’ve become our family.
Words aren’t enough for everything we’ve felt about the Backstreet Boys over the past 24 years, so we asked you to simply send in a few things such as when was the first time and the last time you’ve seen the Boys live and how the past years as a fan have impacted you.
Before you read on to the lovely things everyone else had to say, here’s where I want to start:
Kevin, Howie, Brian, AJ, and Nick…
We are so sorry for not loving you sooner, but thank you for knowing that we would come around. We’re sorry for ever doubting, years ago, that you would keep coming back. Thank you for sticking with us when we may not have stuck with you. Thank you for continuously showing up when the world seemed like it was against you. Thank you for not giving up on us or giving up on each other. Thank you for making music that we can pass on to our children. Thank you for healing us in ways we never knew we needed.
Thank you for all of the memories you’ve given us.
Here’s to the next 24 years, Boys. We can’t wait to see what the future holds.
Name: Alma (Uraguay)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: March 2011
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: June 2015
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: I’ve been through a lot of hell, and they have always been my safest place to hide, even when I choose to take a break from them, I always come back and fall in love all over again, I’ve been a fan for almost 20 years, I’m on my way to becoming a professional translator, I started translating their songs and ever since then I loved doing it, so now thanks to them, I found my passion and I’m pursuing it.
Name: Lizzy Carter (Paris, France)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: March 18, 2014
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: May 13, 2016
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: Becoming a Backstreet fan was the best decision I made in my life. Backstreet music always brought me joy, Happiness & Peace. But The most thing that I like is the relationship instaured between the boys & us, fans. I mean, the way they put you comfortable is very special, especially when you meet them for the First time, which was my case in 2016. I am Proud of being a Soldier & I will KeepTheBackstreetPrideAlive till my last breath
Name: Janice Constante (St. Charles, IL)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: 12/14/2016
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: 12/14/2016
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: It made me think of being a cool Mom while driving my minivan with my 2 girls in their car seats with the windows down and blasting BSB music! I know exactly how it feels to be with someone that long because I’m with the guy I was married to in May of 1993!
Name: Virginia Kalavitinos (Hanover, PA)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: September 1998
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: September 2014
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: Their songs have gotten me through the worst time of my life especially when I lost my dad in 2000. The song ‘Show Me The Meaning Of Being Lonely’ has helped me a lot in my life.
Name: Ari (Bentonville, AR)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: August 3, 2013
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: August 3, 2013
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: In a family that never stayed together, the boys have been my ONLY constant for my life. They helped pull me out of deep anxiety & depression…got me through my first real heartbreak. My kids know every song word 4 word. The Backstreet Boys are my family in every way that matters. In more ways than some of my real family. BSB hold the most special place in my heart.
Name: Kathy Dominguez (Texas)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: June 4, 2014
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: June 4, 2012
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: I would have to say just having their music around has brought me such joy!! Seeing them in Corpus in 2014 always brought me one of the best friends I could ever ask for!! I’m so thankful to BSB for being Krystle Johnson and I together!!! Hope and pray one day I get to meet them one day!!
Name: Jamie Salmonn (North Carolina)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: February 2000
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: August 2014
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: It’s been amazing to know that the first musicians you ever really loved is still kicking butt and taking names all these years later! To love a group in your teenage years & for them to still be around and now YOUR kids listen to them and know their music is so awesome! I am beyond proud to be a BSB fan!
Name: Melissa Lamb (Ballston Spa, NY)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: August 1998
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: August 5, 2010
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: The last 24 years with BSB has meant EVERYTHING to me! They’ve been there with me during my breakdowns and triumphs. When my mom passed in ’02 they were there. When I graduated in ’05 they were there, when I got married and had my babies they were there. My 5yr old was diagnosed with cancer when he was 9 months old and when he was getting treatment all he would listen to was BSB. They were the only thing that would calm him and lul him to sleep. I sent Brian a letter about my son and asked him for a signed photo not really expecting a reply. To my surprise I got a signed photo in the mail for my son. It sits on the mantle above the fireplace. I plan on going to see them if and when they have a world tour and I plan on bringing my son so he can meet Brian and the rest of BSB. I feel like BSB is apart of my family. Without them life would be pretty depressing.
Name: Kim Harris (Indiana)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: 2000
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: 6/11/2014
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: The Backstreet Boys have been my constant for the past 24 years. I grew up with them, been to every tour. I never “grew out” of them. I’ve always declared my love for them! They sing beautifully, create great music, and put on an amazing show. They’re just a great, talented group of guys that will always have my love and devotion. They’re great to us, the fans…
Name: Ashley B (Lexington, KY)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: 11/26/98
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: 8/9/13
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: I have literally grown up with the Backstreet Boys . I was born the same year Backstreet Boys were formed . I heard as long as love as you love me on the radio when I was three and starting singing along my went and bought me the CD and I was in . My sister was two when her and I saw the first concert and she knew every word at 2 . But now have they have impacted my life From good days and bad Backstreet Boys were there for me when I was having a rough day the Backstreet Boys were always there for me to make me feel better I am from the same place as Brian in Lexington KY . I feel connected to the group I have loved them my whole life and am a life long member of the BSB army.
Name: Miriam (Italy)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: April 30, 2008
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: May 10, 2016
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: A group of guys who care about their fans, who put what they love before anything else, deserve all my love an respect. These 24 years mean: music, love, devotion, dedication, passion, hard work and respect for what they do and who they/we are. Being a Backstreet Boys’ fan is the essence of my days, with their music, they can change my mood, my day, they can put a smile on my face in the hardest times. These years have been a constant growth in terms of love and respect for them, never I would have imagined to have such a great passion through the years and if I’m still here after 20 years of these 24, well it’s thank to my guys and to their immense love and the big happiness they give to me on a daily basis. I will always KTBSPA! Cheers! #BSB24
Name: Jessee Floyd (South Carolina)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: 2001
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: 2006
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: The boys have always been there for me not matter what. Whether I was happy or sad. Brian and AJ’ s triumph over there struggles have shown me that you can overcome anything with friends, family, and God by your side! I will love them forever because of that!
Name: Gabriel Flores (Quezon Province, Philippines)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: I’ve never seen them in person. I REALLY want to.
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: Backstreet Boys is already been part of me. Its members are really my inspirations. Their songs sing every moment of life. All of their songs are my favorite. And now, I am a year before my dream, I will be graduating in college; I will be able to buy tickets or something that can make me fulfill on of my greatest dream – to meet them personally. That’s how BSB really means to me.
Name: Pheng To-Amilussin
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: May 5, 2016
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: May 5, 2016
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: We see a lot of changes in the past 24 years. Being a fan since the released of their first single, I had to rely on MTV, borrowed cassette tapes, VHS tapes just to watch and listen to the Backstreet Boys. Then we had CDs, VCDs, and eventually Youtube. But nothing beats the feeling of watching the Boys perform live for the first time. It was only last year that I was able to save enough to be able to fly to Manila and watch their concert. The emotions were indescribable. We’ve watched them grow from young carefree boys to responsible family men. They are meant for greatness and I will be their fan until the end.
Name: Katie (Atlanta, GA)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: 2/25/2000
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: 1/28/2001
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: To love five great guys that make great music for whole world to love! It always made me happy to put in one of theit CDs and dance around my room and love what I was listening to! Thank you guys for these past 24 years.
Name: Vanessa Ford (Portland, OR)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: 2000
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: 2017
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: I was 8 years old and fresh off the spice girls. A friend showed me quit playing games and asked me who I thought was handsome. I was hooked on Aj. Growing up my parents fought a lot and bsb were the only ones that helped me sleep. Backstreet boys sang me to sleep for years. I was teased for being a fan, told it was a phase. As I grew up I continued to listen to them to help with anxiety. When I was pregnant I played unbreakable non stop, it helped me through my husbands deployment. Basically if I need stress relief, or help going to sleep, my boys always bring me comfort. I can always listen and watch them and feel comforted and loved. Now my son’s love the boys with me.
Name: Vanessa Court-Payen (Italy)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: October 5th 1999
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: May 14th 2016
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: The Backstreet Boys shaped who I am as a person. I was bullied pretty badly in high school, and their music helped me escape from that.
When my mother died, they helped me by releasing tour dates two weeks after her funeral, which reminded me that there was something worth living for.
Through thick and thin, they’ve been there for me through their music, with concerts and music videos. They’ve helped me meet some of the best people I know (including my best friend at a Black & Blue show), and allowed me to travel to many places – for concerts, of course.
Oh, and, frankly, their music still makes me grin and dance around.
So, thank you, Boys, for everything. Thank you for your music, for your lyrics, for your lives. I’ll be right here for the next 24 years, ready for another album and another tour.
Name: Adelaida Precilda (Phillipines)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: June 2012
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: May 2015
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: They inspired me and their music gives me inspiration and somehow lifts my spirit when I’m down.
Name: Solange Latty (Melbourne, Australia)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: 2006
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: 2015
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: Being a fan since the very beginning, these guys are truly a blessing. They have helped me through the passing of my father, with their beautiful music and kindness to fans all over the world. I have met them quite a few times in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane and worth every maxed out credit card! First meet and greet in 2015 and love them even more today, as a 36 year old!
Name: Kari Woodson (Springfield, IL)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: July 26, 1998
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: June 7, 2014
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: Where do I even begin?! I have been a fan for almost 20 years! When I was a freshman in high school they helped me through a hard time. I felt like the only time I was really happy was when I was watching or listening to them. These five guys mean more to me than they or anyone else will ever know! I am so thankful for them and their music and how it, and they have touched me. Also, the song Never Gone has a special meaning for me. My mom died in 2005 in a car accident and that song really helped me, but also made me sad! I can’t even really put into words how much these five guys mean to me! My dream finally came true on June 7, 2014 when I met them. I was so happy and excited to finally meet them! Thank you Nick, Brian, AJ, Kevin and Howie for your music, your love, your sacrifice, your hard work, for giving yourselves to us fans, and just for YOU!! I love you guys more than you could ever really know!! Happy 24th anniversary!!
Name: Melissa Mullins (Prince Edward Island, Canada)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: August 1998
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: May 2014
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: The Backstreet Boys are like my happy place. Their music makes me happy & when I need someone they are always there.
Name: Saba (Pakistan)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: 2004
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: 2017
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: It’s amazing that after all this years they are still together. I still listen their songs.
Name: Shelby Leworthy (Australia)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: Haven’t Seen Them Live
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: It’s meant so much to me. They’ve made me smile when no one else could. Why get a boyfriend when you have the Backstreet Boys who’ll always be there for you.
Name: Alisa Stadler (Socorro, New Mexico)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: 20 + years ago
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: Never live
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: They have saved my life and helped me to deal with the many hardships in my life. I have never been to a concert and I am 52 years old, the only one I want to go to is a Backstreet Boys. For Mothers Day my daughter is taking me to Las Vegas next month on a Wednesday. I just want them to know how much they have done for me!!
Name: Hisae Shiotani (Japan)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: Feb 25, 2001
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: Mar 11, 2017
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: I had a great experience since I knew BSB. I traveled out of my country a lot for them. They made me strong so I can’t say enough thanks even if I told them “Thank you” thousand times! And I don’t stop this adventure!!!
Name: Tiziana (Naples, Italy)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: November 24, 2009
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: May 10, 2016
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: It’s hard to define with words what the bsb means to me, but happiness is the first word that comes in my mind, they are the joy to listen a favorite song, they are a part of me, that which one that makes me feel myself at “101%” they are that part of me that makes me believe that dreams can come true.
Name: Debra Gordon (Montreal, Canada)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: January 3, 1996
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: August 6, 2013
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: It’s been one amazing ride. The boys really care about their fans their songs all have meaning , I remember in 2016 when I was battling cancer their song ” show them what your made of ” became my battle song!!! I’m still in shock that I got followed by Brian & Nick!! I really can wait for Vegas which will be my first VIP took 19 yrs, but I know it’ll be one amazing memory I’ll never forget!!
Name: Miriam (The Netherlands)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: October 12, 2005
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: May 14, 2016
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: One word: Life!
Name: Nidia Oliveros (Guatemala)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: Never
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: I never had the opportunity to see them but I love them and their music because they are unique. I can’t go to another place to see them and they never come to Guatemala but I never lose the hope and if I never could meet them I will always love them because they are part of my heart. Every time listened or see them they make me back in the time and I feel like a teen again. I wish they could know that I love them. Thank God for BSB. GOD BLESS YOU GUYS.
Name: Elise (The Netherlands – Holland)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: December 9th, 1996
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: May 2017 (bsb cruise)
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: The music of the boys helped me through some pretty tough times.. I still cry like a little baby when ‘Show me..’ comes along (my dad died and it was his favorite song). But at concerts I always have my besties by my side to give me a hug and to make sure AJ sees me and throws me a handkiss, sings to me and one of his signature bows where he smiles and raises his eyebrows (you all know what I mean).. Oh I could go on and on.. But the boys gave us so many memories.. They are the happy place we go to when we close our eyes and we want to build more memories to that smile on our faces glazing away in the far distance for many, many years to come!!
Name: Alexandra Sotomayor (Miami, FL – From Peru)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: 9/2/1998
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: 3/3/2017
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: The BSB has meant everything to me since the first time I heard “QPGWM” in 97′ I fell in love with their voices & music. I came from Lima, Peru to the USA in 96′ along with my dad & brother, my mom passed away when I was 8 yrs old, to make long story short.. The BSB were (still is) my motivation and inspiration to learn the English language, they were my reason to keep pushing forward in my life and school (barely had any family) It wasn’t easy adapting to a new country and culture but thanks to my BSB, I had a reason to look forward to life every day, I learned their music by writing them in my journal, singing, doing scrapbooks, calling radio stations to request their songs, calling TRL etc! I came out of my shell, I grew up listening to their music and lyrics (still do). There are no words to describe what I feel about my boys and how their music has inpacted my life throughout all these years, growing up without a mother wasn’t easy.. To date, I still jam to their music and I relate so much to their music, every song has a special meaning to me because it helped through each stage of my life.. I love them! I’m a proud BSB Fan! 20 years & still counting KTBSPA!!!
Name: Delphine Z. (France)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: 03/18/2014
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: 05/14/2016
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: My sister and I fell in love with the BSB in 1996. We grew up with a dad suffering from a mental illness and their music was like refuge for us. In 2007, she had big health problems and she almost died. It was the worst moment of my life and BSB helped me holding on when she was in a coma. She kept crippling after-effects so in 2014 when we saw them live together for the first time, it was like if we went back in time when she was healthy and carefree. BSB are the best antidepressant ever ! They helped me holding on when I was totally lost and desperate. And since my Mum came to a BSB cruise with us, she’s a big fan too ! That’s a family affair ! We love you guys.
Name: Mary Irony Angel Atido (Cavite, Phillipines)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: Never
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: Even though I never met them, I always think of them as a member of our family. All of us is a fan of them starting from my mother and her sisters and we keep on keeping the backstreet pride alive! Im just a 13 year old girl but eversince i was 5 or 6 years old I’m a fan of them (actually eversince i was in my mother’s womb). They help me overcome my problems on different situations. Their songs always motivate me and inspire me to never give up on your life no matter how hard the situation is.
Name: Matt Mayorchak (Albany, NY)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: 06/15/2010
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: 06/04/2016
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: 24 years ago I was not even born yet. I was born in 1996 right as BSB was breaking into the US. BSB has meant everything to me ever since. Aside from my parents they have been one of the best role models in my life. Themselves as well as their music continues to influence me and be an example of who I want to be as an adult.
Name: Ratih Dwiastuti (Indonesia)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: July 1, 2012
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: May 3, 2015
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: They teach me a lot of things. Here’s the summary. First, career is a marathon, not a sprint. They struggle, passion, and dedication in music industry taught me a lot to set career goals. Second, they taught me to always have pure heart, specially Kev :’)..last but not least, they are the best English teacher since elementary school until now! Ha! Well, there are no words can’t describe how proud i am to be backstreet boys fan. God sent the boys into my life and become one of my biggest booster to keep up a good life. “No one’s ever gonna love you (guys) more than God, Your Mama, and Me” 🙂
Name: Christie Brauer (Minneapolis, MN)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: February 17, 2001
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: July 15, 2011
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: I was born in February 1993 – since I was born the Backstreet Boys have a been a group. That says a lot. I have never gone through a day of my life without them their music. They were my first concert, my first obsession and still to this day my favorite group. They are so talented and I am so grateful for the joy they have brought me. Thank you BSB.
Name: Elijah Gaudin Malolot (San Fernando Cebu, Phillipines)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: Not Yet
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: They inspire me In my Studies , and They Also Help me How To solve my Problems Through their Music.
Name: Melly (Edmonton, AB – Canada)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: August 1998
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: May 2014
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: Wow…it has meant finding my best friend, Sunnygirl20. Finding myself. Realizing that dream do come true. BSB have been there for me thru every major event in my life over the last 22 years. University, marriage, birth of my daughter and the end of my marriage. They have saved me.
Name: Emily Lin (Taiwan)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: 02/22/2008
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: 04/30/2015
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: BSB’s music has been the soundtrack of my life for 20+ years. From teenage crush to now, the Boys are like my oldest friend because they are always there when I need them, though I’ve only met them for a couple of times. They are my inspirations. They gave me the courage to take adventures and to dream big. Along the way, I’ve been to many places, met awesome people, and learned skills for myself to make a living now. Loving BSB has changed my life for good. I’m forever thankful for that.
“As long as there’s music we’ll be coming back again” is like the most beautiful promise between BSB and the fans. Here’s to more amazing music, tours, and epic BSB moments to come! And of course, I’ll forever be there keeping the Backstreet Pride alive! Happy 24th Anniversary to BSB! Cheers!
Name: Danielle (Maryland)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: 1996
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: 2017
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: They have changed my life and made me a better person for the last 24 years and I’m happy with hey never broke up and still here I’m a big proud fan.
Name: Alida Abbott (Syracuse, NY)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: August 30, 1998
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: March 1, 2017
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: My life changed in 1996 when I was visiting my dad’s family in Holland. I was watching MTV with my cousins and a music video with 5 amazingly talented guys filled the screen. “Get Down” was my first taste of BSB and I was hooked and desperately needed more. BSB has been a constant in my life, always there crooning exactly the right words when I needed them the most, during the lows (losses of loved ones) to the highs (marrying my high school soul mate) of my life. After 21 years of only seeing them from a distance, my inner 9 year old finally got her wish to meet them. And let me say, my life changed yet again. So thank you: Nick, Brian, AJ, Kevin and Howie for changing the life of that little 9 year girl.
Name: Karah-Leigh (Atlanta, GA)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: May 1, 1998
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: May 16, 2016
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: While I’ve only been a fan for almost 19 years, those have meant the world to me. BSB have saved my life more times than I can count. They have been the one thing I can always count on. They’ve brought me my best friends, introduced me to my love of writing which led to my career. It’s cheesy to say, but every time I’m down, they seem to make it right. To me, that’s what makes them LARGER THAN LIFE!
Name: Jessica McCartney (California)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: March 1, 2017
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: March 1, 2017
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: Ever since 2015, I’ve always loved the boys for being themselves and always being together. Unlike other boy bands, they’ve always treated each other like brothers and love each other for who they are. I’m so proud to be their fan for 2 years now. 🙂
Name: Maayan Ben-Yacob (Israel)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: 11.5.2006
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: 5.21.2015
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: The past 24 years with BSB means the world. Their music was there for me when i was down having a bad time and when i had happy moments. today with the social media, you can feel how much they really care, trying to give attention to each and every fan. You really feel like they are part of you family. I’m so thankful i got to meet them personally and thank them for all those amazing years! My very special moment with the boys was on May 18 2015 when in was invited to their welcome dinner (first time in Israel) and got to meet them for the very first time, they were so nice and was really curious about me as a person and we had a really nice evening!
Name: Michelle Johnson (Toronto, Canada)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: November 11, 1999
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: March 17, 2017
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: Backstreet has always been the great escape for me – a fantasy if you will, that my 13 year old self clung bitterly to when I was getting bullied daily – at school, and at home. Imagining that words in songs like “The One” and “I’ll Never Break Your Heart” were crafted specifically for me, got me through hard days, and often hushed me to sleep when anxieties pounded at my door.
They have also always been the best form of comfort to me – helping to calm, and silence storms by simply hearing their melodies. I’m so grateful for them – being completely biased to AJ specifically – who more times than one, talked me off the ledge.
Many said it would be a phase, but here I am, 19 years later still going strong. Love you boys!
Name: Leonie (The Netherlands)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: June 5, 1999
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: May 11, 2016
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: BSB has changed my life from the first moment I saw them on TV. I was 9 years old and We’ve Got It Goin On was played. Immediately I was hooked! I fell in love with Nick Carter. From that moment I collected everything BSB related. Posters, bubble gum, CDs, VHS, sticker albums etc. BSB became a huge part of my life and they still are for 23 years now. I am incredibly proud of these 5 amazing guys! Nick, AJ, Howie, Kevin and Brian thank you so much for everything. You have no idea how much you mean to me. Happy 24th Anniversary! See you in Vegas in June!
Name: Nicole Cook (California)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: 9/6/2001
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: 3/4/2017
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: To me, the Backstreet Boys represent unconditional love. They have always been my go-to group when I’m feeling sad or happy. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve gotten to appreciate how much they truly care for their fans because they continue to give us more. Last year for my 30th, I flew to Boston for Nick’s Appetizing afternoon, and it was so awesome to feel so pampered with a million hugs and memories that I will never forget. Last month when I got to meet all of the boys for the first time in Vegas, they were all so welcoming and made me feel special. Seeing them perform live is always such a rush and I love sharing that joy with all the new friends I have made along the way because of them. The Backstreet army is the BEST! Here’s to another 24 years!
Name: Sarah (California / New York)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: Oct 15th, 1999
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: March 4th, 2017
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: Words cannot describe what these Boys mean to me. From preteen to a full-fledged adult, I have grown up with them…regardless of the many ups and downs, they continue to be a consistent source of positivity in my life. I’ve been fortunate enough in recent years to meet them many times and experience first hand how humble and down to earth they are. They are the reason for some of my most memorable experiences and closest friends. While other fan bases get excited over “reunion” tours, we are so lucky that they’ve never stopped making music and continue to create joy in our lives!
Name: Ashley Darpino (New Jersey)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: 7/31/2005
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: 10/2013
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: The Backstreet Boys are literally my safest place to hide. They’ve helped me through the toughest of times. I was always bullied as a kid and music was an escape. I never had many friends but though the boys I have the sisters I never had. The memories and adventures we’ve had will last a life time. We’ve watched them grow as we’ve grown up. So thankful for the last 24 years and can’t wait for what the future holds!!!
Name: Jennifer Webster (Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: December 27, 1997
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: May 4, 2014
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: The last 24 years has saw me experience so many great adventures and friends. I met my best friend of 21 years after sharing a magazine that featured BSB. I have traveled for concerts to new cities and had instant friendships. Without BSB, I can promise you 90% of my life experiences wouldn’t have happened.
Name: lisakyu82 (Montebello, CA)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: 2005
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: March 18, 2017
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: Being a Backstreet Boys fan has taught me to go out of my comfort zone and try new things. I went on their European cruise, which gave me the opportunity to visit Europe, something I always dreamed about, but never did. I’ve attended concerts and shows on my own and met incredible fans. I’ve expanded my own creativity using their music and journey as inspiration. The Boys and this fandom has been a second family to me and I’ve been so incredibly grateful to each and every person I’ve had the great fortune to cross paths with on this magnificent journey. I can’t wait to see what the next 20 years bring us!
Name: _Pearl (Phillipines)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: Never
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: Loving the Backstreet Boys is more than just the music; it’s the happiness they bring, the inspiration they give, in ways you can’t imagine. They serve as an inspiration to continue, to fight, regardless how difficult life is. Because of them, I learned to laugh and love; I learned the value of life, family, and friendship. Because of their beautiful families, I believe in forever. Through them, I’ve had these amazing friends from different countries that I chat with everyday. The boys brought us all together, my sisters from another mother.
Thank you boys for your love and appreciation, for treating us fans as family. Thank you for your hard work, dedication, passion and sacrifices. Thank you for being you..
Happy 24th Anniversary, boys! Keep rockin’ the world for 24 or even a hundred years more! I’ll be with you all the way, Keeping The Backstreet Pride Alive and being #BSBicted FOREVER.
Name: Ashley Darpino (New Jersey)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: 7/31/2005
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: 10/2013
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: The Backstreet Boys are literally my safest place to hide. They’ve helped me through the toughest of times. I was always bullied as a kid and music was an escape. I never had many friends but though the boys I have the sisters I never had. The memories and adventures we’ve had will last a life time. We’ve watched them grow as we’ve grown up. So thankful for the last 24 years and can’t wait for what the future holds!!!
Name: Jennifer Webster (Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: December 27, 1997
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: May 4 2014
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: The last 24 years has saw me experience so many great adventures and friends. I met my best friend of 21 years after sharing a magazine that featured BSB. I have traveled for concerts to new cities and had instant friendships. Without BSB, I can promise you 90% of my life experiences wouldn’t have happened.
Name: lisakyu82 (Montebello, California)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: 2005
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: March 18, 2017
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: Being a Backstreet Boys fan has taught me to go out of my comfort zone and try new things. I went on their European cruise, which gave me the opportunity to visit Europe, something I always dreamed about, but never did. I’ve attended concerts and shows on my own and met incredible fans. I’ve expanded my own creativity using their music and journey as inspiration. The Boys and this fandom has been a second family to me and I’ve been so incredibly grateful to each and every person I’ve had the great fortune to cross paths with on this magnificent journey. I can’t wait to see what the next 20 years bring us!
Name: _Pearl (@pearl_ktbspa) (Philippines)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: Never
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: Loving the Backstreet Boys is more than just the music; it’s the happiness they bring, the inspiration they give, in ways you can’t imagine. They serve as an inspiration to continue, to fight, regardless how difficult life is. Because of them, I learned to laugh and love; I learned the value of life, family, and friendship. Because of their beautiful families, I believe in forever. Through them, I’ve had these amazing friends from different countries that I chat with everyday. The boys brought us all together, my sisters from another mother.
Thank you boys for your love and appreciation, for treating us fans as family. Thank you for your hard work, dedication, passion and sacrifices. Thank you for being you..
Happy 24th Anniversary, boys! Keep rockin’ the world for 24 or even a hundred years more! I’ll be with you all the way, Keeping The Backstreet Pride Alive and being #BSBicted FOREVER.
Name: Emma McGregor (Gloucestershire, UK)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: 1996 smash hits poll winners party uk
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: 2014 birmingham nec uk
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: So many moments stand out, but 2 revolve around my 2 sons. In 2005 I was due to have my first child a week after a BsB concert, I ended up having him early and couldn’t go. My friends bought me some wonderful souvenirs back instead. I have been to at least 1 date of every UK tour that BSB have ever done apart from that year! Fast forward 9 years and I’m 4 months pregnant with my 2nd son in the pit at the NEC for the latest tour, I had the most amazing time. 4.5 months later I have prepared a CD full of BSB songs to play whilst having my c section but the delivery room didn’t have a CD player – the nurse suggested putting the radio on and randomly guess what was the first song that came on and also the song my 2nd son was born to? I want it that way! He’s called Ace Joseph. BSB has pretty much bench the soundtrack to my life!
Name: Chrissy Schulz (Germany)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: 08/22/1997
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: 03/11/2017
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: Without the boys I wouldn’t have met my best friend 18 years ago and I couldn’t imagine that at all. And 2 of my fave memories: Being on stage with Nick during INBYH and not expecting it at all & seeing him during his solo show and realizing he knows my first AND last name! 😉
Name: Malinda (Reston, VA)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: 09/14/1995
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: O8/18/2013
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: The BSB’s music has helped me through a lot of the struggles I face being in the Autism Spectrum. They have been my escape, making me believe things will get better. I really miss them and I hope to see them again soon.
Name: Yael (Israel)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: 17.5.2015
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: 20.5.2015
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: My Backstreet Boys… How to even begin? I have so many memories forever connected with so many songs. BSB were, are, my life long soundtrack. From the rough high school years, to my military service, the countless hours of driving with one (or more) BSB Cd playing and me singing/ screaming along, and even giving birth with a BSB playlist!
I can’t and I don’t want to imagine my life without BSB music in it.
Over the years I was lucky enough to make some lovely dear friends (who I’ll meet some day, I’m sure!) thanks to our mutual love for the boys.
So thank you Nick, AJ, Brian, Kevin and Howie for everything you gave me on the last 24 years, Here’s hoping to celebrate the next 24 with you!
Name: Yekairy Presinal (From Dominican Republic but lives in Boston)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: August- 12-2013
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: August- 12-2013
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: Words can’t express what they mean and meant to me for all of these years. They are amazing, I’m praying for the day I meet them in person. Backstreet Boys I Love you with all my heart!!!!!!!
Name: KTBSPA (Asia)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: 2016
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: 2017
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: Well, to start off i am NOT a 90s kid. The first ever time i heard a bsb song would be about 4-5 months ago maybe, but since then i have been hooked ! The first was quit playing which was oddly catchy, and then a friend of mine told me to listen to IWITW. At first i didnt think much of it, but it went on to become an all time fav. Well on thing lead to the next and now i know about 73 songs maybe? But they are amazing and its hard to listen to anything else except bsb. I even play them on guitar especially i want it and it sounds soooo good. I never really had the opportunity of experiencing them at their peak so i wish them all the best such that their new album is a huge success and brings them to mainstream pop back again. Backstreet’s really back , alright !
Name: Ilze (Latvia, but now lives in Germany)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: May 17th 2008
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: March 20th 2014
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: I just fell in love with a song, Incomplete, and it absolutely changed my life. It still gives me goosebumps, especially when I hear it live. And I was so proud by seeing the Boys for the first time in Latvia! AJ, Brian, Howie, Kevin and Nick care for and love every each fan and you really feel this! Boys have always been very nice to me, especially, when I remember Nick hugging me on a VIP. It made me feel so special! I’ve met many wonderful people who are now my friends supporting me through the years. And the music has give me strength and made me smile, even in sad days! Thank you, Backstreet Boys, for this amazing fandom! I couldn’t be happier! #KTBSPA forever!
Name: Neeratha J (Toronto, ON)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: August 6, 2013
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: May 8, 2014
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: The last 24 years with BSB have meant so much to me. I wish I could tell you how much every little thing you guys have done means to me or why it made my childhood + life that much better! I first heard you guys (Quit Playing Games) in Montreal in 1996 (I can thank my music loving Dad & HMV/BMG for that) and have been a fan ever since! Thank you for the amazing music and countless memories over the years! Thank you for always coming back better and kinder than ever! Y’all never fail to make me smile or make my days brighter. Your music, your story, your perseverance, and the way you treat your fans always inspires me. So proud to be a fan. CONGRATS on 24 successful years in this industry, you guys deserve it all! Here’s to decades more of good music, tours and memories with you boys!
Name: Anne @Banana_Anne (Montreal, Quebec)
Date / Year You First Saw The Backstreet Boys: 1995 at a shopping mall when I had no clue who they were! March 20 1997 1st official show
Date / Year You Last Saw The Backstreet Boys: March 11 2017 in vegas !
What Has The Last 24 Years With BSB Meant To You?: I can’t even began to say how much theses fives men have influenced my life ! People say they are just a band, but everyday they have taught me about perseverence, about love, about family, about overcoming obstacles, about respect, about passion, about friendship, about patience, about trust, about laughter and about life.
Their music is my happy place. But it goes beyond the music. I feel so blessed to be a Backstreet Fan because of everything they do for us and how they go out of their way to make us feel special, loved and appreciated; whether it’s a tweet from Nick, a smile from Brian, a serenade from AJ, a hug from Howie or a heartfelt thank you from Kevin. Thank you for the past 24 years & here’s to many more! I love you! #ktbspa
Thanks to everyone who sent their photos in (especially those who included the date they first and last saw the Backstreet Boys). Special thanks to @sasarichardson on Twitter for sharing her incredible talent for our featured image!
Can you believe it? Today the Backstreet Boys celebrate 23 years together and it’s just as much a celebration for us as it is for them. They’ve given us music, friends, some of the best moments of our lives, and everything in between. They’ve been our superheroes and we can’t imagine our lives without them.
What Happens On The Backstreet 