Backstreet Boys Share Their One Post-Show Ritual as an ‘Older Band’ Following ‘Intense’ Performances
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In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, the Backstreet Boys shared insights into their post-show ritual as an “older band” and explained why their upcoming Sphere residency will be “larger than life.”
The Backstreet Boys have adapted some of their post-show habits with time.
In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, the iconic pop group — featuring Nick Carter, AJ McLean, Kevin Richardson, Brian Littrell, and Howie Dorough — shared their go-to ritual as an “older” band after their high-energy performances.
“We’re not that old, but our bodies do take a bit more of a beating these days,” said McLean, 47. “After a show, you might do a cold plunge, you might go get a massage, you might get adjustments.”
In an exclusive chat with PEOPLE, the Backstreet Boys shared insights into their pre-show routines and backstage habits.
“We still pray,” said Carter, 45, while McLean added that their group prayer tradition continues — sometimes just among the five members, and other times with their crew, security, and management team.
McLean noted that their backstage requests have remained consistent over the years. “We still have PB and J,” he joked. “Honestly, we’re like a bunch of 5-year-olds back there. But now there are also more organic and healthy options available. Occasionally, we even have some gym equipment on the road with us.”
The band now ensures there’s always a space for their families during tours.
“We’re not hitting the clubs anymore,” Richardson, 53, remarked. McLean chimed in with a laugh: “Yeah, we’ve gone from bottle service in clubs to baby bottle service.”
For the group best known for “I Want It That Way,” rest has become a priority. “Sleep is everything now,” McLean emphasized.
Back in January, the Backstreet Boys revealed their plans to return to Las Vegas for a residency at the Sphere in July and August. Titled Into the Millennium, the nine-show series will spotlight their iconic 1999 album Millennium.
“When the opportunity to perform at the Sphere came our way, it just felt right,” said Dorough, 51. “It’s like a comeback on a whole new level — you can’t top the Sphere.”
The “Everybody” singers described their previous Las Vegas residency as an “unbelievable experience,” noting they had been waiting for the perfect chance to return.
The Backstreet Boys’ upcoming residency is scheduled for July 11, 12, 13, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, and 27, as well as August 1, 2, and 3.