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Back - Index - Submissions - - What is RSS? Date: May 19, 2099 Source: Billboard Online Submitted By: AbeFitch98@aol.com With new album "Millennium," out this week from Jive Records, Backstreet Boys attempt to prove that they can evolve from a boy-group sensation to a mature, harmony-driven act with career longevity. In fact, the Boys and their management are patterning the act's development after that of an even bigger superstar. "Our prototype is Madonna," says co-manager Michael Green. "When she first broke, she was a phenomenon. She has endured because she evolved into being a trendsetter. That's our benchmark." Group member Kevin Richardson concurs. "We're ready to test ourselves and see what we're made of -- as songwriters and singers," he says. Leading off "Millennium" is first single "I Want It That Way," an uplifting, harmonious tune that is No. 18 on The Billboard Hot 100. That track and most of the album's other 12 were produced by Max Martin, who helmed the group's mega-hits "Quit Playing Games (With My Heart)" and "I'll Never Break Your Heart." Also contributing cuts are Robert "Mutt" Lange and Steve Lipson. While "Millennium" offers more of Backstreet Boys' signature smooth pop/funk and dewy slow jams, there are also signs of growth. Among them is "The Perfect Fan," written and sung by the group's Brian Littrell. "It's one of our favorite songs on the album," says bandmate Howie Dorough. "He wrote it for his mom, and we decided that we'd dedicate it to all our moms. It's a beautiful song with a strong gospel feel that I think will surprise people who think they have us pegged." The Boys will be inescapable in the next few weeks as they promote the new album. On Tuesday, the act will appear on the Jumbotron in New York's Times Square, hosting videos and chatting with fans. They then head into the MTV studios for an episode of "Total Request Live." Before embarking in late May on the European leg of their global tour, they will put the finishing touches on a one-hour special for the Disney Channel, scheduled to air in July. A U.S. tour begins in early fall. Comment on this item. Next Item: Sears is Getting Into the Groove With Pop Sensation The Backstreet Boys Prev Item: Backstreet Boy Discusses New Album