So, we know that Drew Lachey is Nick Lachey’s brother. But here’s why the younger Lachey is a star in his own right. Before joining the iconic boy band, Drew was winning hearts in a different space. He was a combat medic in the United States Army, and it was chance that led him to 98 Degrees.
After one of the band members dropped out, Justin Jeffre suggested to Nick Lachey that Drew would be the perfect fit. From medic to pin-up boy, Drew easily made the shift. His serenades heal broken hearts just as beautifully.
The Backstreet Boys
The pop revolution of the ‘90s will forever remain in collective memory, and reigning supreme were members of "The Backstreet Boys." It was a time of sappy lyrics, good choreography, and good-looking boys, what more can one ask for? Were they original? Yeah!
These boys had intense feelings about everything. The games people play, the shapes of their hearts, the calls they regret, how they were incomplete, but who were they then and where are they now?
Nick Carter Then
Who doesn’t know babyface Nick Carter? At 13 years old, he was the youngest band member. Nick was the heartthrob of the group. He was so cute we even forgave him for his questionable haircut choices. But don’t let his pretty-boy reputation fool you.
Without Carter, the most iconic music videos by the Backstreet Boys wouldn't have existed. Carter was the force behind two music video concepts – “Everybody (Backstreet’s Back)” and “Larger Than Life.” Carter and director Joseph Kahn were responsible for bringing the legendary music videos to life.
Nick Carter Now
What do you do when you love acting but receive no offers? Well, if you’re a Nick Carter, you write, produce and star in your own film. Not just any film, but a post-apocalyptic Western film where cowboys face off against zombies! Released in 2016, “Dead 7" is about a gang of good-looking 90s boy band members fighting zombies.
Along with Carter, the film has AJ Mclean (Backstreet Boys). Joey Fatone(‘NSYNC), Erik-Michael Estrada (O-Town), and Jeff Timmons (98 Degrees). Critics didn't like it, but we think they missed the point entirely — that of not taking it too seriously.
Howie Dorough Then
History has been unfortunate to Howie Dorough, or Howie D. Does the world remember Howie’s high falsetto or slick dance moves? No! People remember him as the one who farted while recording “The Call.” Producers recorded and used the fart as a beat for the song.
And that’s not all. Few people know that Howie D was the band’s original lead singer! AJ Maclean and Howie were the first official members of the group. It was clear Howie was the lead singer – that is, until other members arrived and he realized he wasn’t the lead singer anymore.
Howie Dorough Now
If anyone decades ago had said Howie D would be making songs for kids – we would have laughed them off the back streets. Becoming a proud father of two has seemingly offered him a new perspective.
“Which One Am I?” (2019) is a collection of songs every kid needs — about not fitting in, being shy, short, or standing out because of your skin color. Things that Dorough struggled with himself as a teen.
AJ Mclean Then
So, you thought Zayn Malik was the bad boy of boy bands? Why? Because he’s a tad broody, silent, and has some tattoos? The ‘90s had AJ McLean, who practically redefined ‘cool. It wasn’t so much the dance moves or clothes. It was just that he was himself.
In March 1992, McLean came across a newspaper ad calling young men ages 16-19 to audition for a new music group. AJ was 14 then but went anyway. One month later, it was official. AJ McLean became the first member of the group the world would come to know as "The Backstreet Boys."
AJ Mclean Now
AJ McLean’s “bad boy” days are behind him. His past battles with addiction are well-known but he’s back in top form – a large part of it due to his family.
McLean has been married to his wife Rochelle for over 10 years and they have two daughters. Family – his own and the Backstreet Boys fandom – is important to McLean. Like him, the original fans are older, wiser, and parents themselves now. He’s spoken about how he loves seeing dads, mums, and kids making memories at Backstreet Boys gigs today.
Brian Littrell Then
What would our lives look like without Brian Littrell’s angelic voice? We don't want to even think about it! Quit playing games, he said – and the world listened. As lead singer, Brian carried every BSB song to new levels of teen hysteria.
Fans remained loyal, even when they noticed his voice cracking while hitting the high notes. Soon, the world learned that Littrell had vocal tension dysphonia – a condition that tightens neck muscles. The Backstreet Boys’ documentary “Show ‘Em What You’re Made Of” depicts Littrell’s struggles in depth.
Brian Littrell Now
He’s still the Brian Littrell we know — a good Christian family man with larger-than-life achievements. Littrell and his wife, Leighanne have been married for over twenty years.
The couple lives a charmed life with their son in a beautiful Atlanta mansion. The unusual property has even made the news. Littrell also founded an entertainment and media platform called Brian Littrell Projects – a trusted name for ventures in music, events, TV, and charitable giving. The company description online is Brian through and through; guided by a “father, husband, believer, creator.”
Kevin Richardson Then
Kevin Richardson would rather not open his mouth unless it’s too sing. He managed to stay true to himself throughout the band’s extensive tenure. A remarkable feat in an industry obsessed with bubbly, out-there personalities.
So, you can imagine the sheer madness that ensued when fans heard him speak on a stripped-down version of “All I Have To Give.” The big brother of the group showed us that 'quiet' doesn’t mean irrelevant, leaving a legacy for other less chatty stars like Leona Lewis after him.
Kevin Richardson Now
Kevin had the knack for making his voice count. The world knows him as the oldest member of the Backstreet Boys. But in 2016, we got to see Kevin, the actor, in a deeply-personal role. Kevin played Derek in “If I Could Tell You” — an indie film about a couple’s journey with infertility.
Derek is an anonymous sperm donor who meets Abby (Avery Clyde) who's desperate to conceive. Many viewers back then didn’t know that Kevin and his wife, Kristin, had gone through similar struggles. Today, he's over 50 and still looking fine.
Nuts for ‘NSYNC
Any talk about pop’s resurgence is incomplete without mentioning ‘NSYNC. In an era ruled by great talents such as the Backstreet Boys, Christina Aguilera, and Britney Spears, ‘NSYNC truly stood out. We see you, BSB fans. ‘NSYNC’s signature R&B sound was a pop-music game-changer.
It was a well-rounded, harmonious sound — unlike other groups where vocals tended to be random and all over the place. The band made it big in Germany first. Their second album, "No Strings Attached," smashed the Billboard Charts, and the rest is history.
Justin Timberlake Then
Here’s a piece of delicious trivia. During an interview with Oprah, Timberlake shared how he originally wrote the song “Gone” for Michael Jackson – whose managers rejected it! Justin decided to cut the song for ‘NSYNC instead.
When Jackson heard it, he called Timberlake with a request to turn it into a duet. Timberlake said the song must feature all of the band, so yes, he said no to Michael Jackson!
Justin Timberlake Now
From Mouseketeer to teenage dream, Justin Timberlake came a long way. Timberlake is your classic overachiever. Let’s write a song today, says Justin (for Beyonce, maybe for Rihanna?). He’s hilarious and cracks everyone up (regularly on Saturday Night Live). When Justin decides to dress up, it culminates in a clothing line – “William Rast,” sold in Macy’s, Bloomingdales, and Lord & Taylor.
Did we mention he’s ageless and despite excelling at everything, doesn’t come off as annoying? Does he perchance know the location of the fountain of youth?
Lance Bass Then
Lance Bass’ baritone brought depth to ‘NSYNC songs. His last name was Bass, after all. Bass joined the group in 1995 after original singer Jason Galasso quit. His vocal chops were off the charts, but his dance moves failed to tear up any hearts. Bass could not move to save his life and sometimes his career.
Record companies offered contracts to ‘NSYNC under the condition that they drop Bass whose dancing wasn’t on par. But the group refused. His dancing improved, but he was known to mess up a lot on live shows.
Lance Bass Now
For millions of fans, Bass was the shy, adorable one. It turns out that his quiet ways were more than just a personality trait. Bass was gay and had known it all his life. He knew he couldn’t say anything since four other people’s careers were on the line.
The burden of living with the secret ate at him – the thought of crushing his Southern Baptist family or overpowering any success the band had seen. In a 2006 interview for People Magazine, Lance Bass came out of the closet and from behind his boy band persona. His kept his life pretty private ever since.
JC Chasez Then
In all the mania around Justin Timberlake, many fans forget that ‘NSYNC had two lead singers; one infinitely more talented. Allow us to re-introduce you to JC Chasez – the other frontman whose voice carried ‘NSYNC’s songs. Go ahead, fight us. You will lose.
Chasez’s soulful voice had much more range, elevating most of the band’s singles. Timberlake’s falsetto shone in certain hooks only – notably, “Pop” and “I Want You Back.” But when the group needed vocal power, it was always JC. The underrated JC — even his hair game was stronger than Timberlake’s range.
Chasez Now
After parting ways with the band, Chasez released “Schizophrenic,” a solo debut album, in 2004. The endeavor wasn’t as successful as Timberlake’s debut. It seemed that JC would be doomed to live under his shadow even after ‘NSYNC.
Chasez began working on his second albumin in 2007. He even worked with Timberlake, who helped write and produce a few songs – but a sudden split with the recording company quashed any hopes of an album release. Chasez pivoted to songwriting and production instead. He has since written for artists like Taemin, NU’EST, Liz, and The Backstreet Boys.
Joey Fatone Then
When you look back at ‘NYSYNC, it seems every band member had their thing — a special role to play. But what about Joey Fatone? He wasn’t the lead singer, designated dream boy, or the quiet, mysterious one. Fatone wasn’t the funny one in the group either.
Most people don’t know this, but his role was rather unusual – some might say, unexpected. Fatone was every mother’s favorite. Fans would walk up to him for autographs and say, “My mom loves you and wants to cook you dinner!”
Joey Fatone Now
Joey Fatone has been super busy. Since the Backstreet Boys, Fatone had made the transition into films, Broadway, and television. Fans first noticed his acting chops in “My Big Fat Greek Wedding” (2002) but he’s made a name for himself in television since then.
Fatone hosted a GSN show called “Common Knowledge” that debuted in 2019. He also competed as the Rabbit in “The Masked Singer” – although the singer diligently denied it for a while. Fatone is proof that former boy band members can shine and don’t have to just shrivel up in a corner and die.
Chris Kirkpatrick Then
Just making sure you guys know this important piece of history: without Kirkpatrick scouring high and low for the right people, ‘NSYNC would not exist! But that wasn't all he did. As a soprano, he sang lead on songs such as “Together Again,” and “Thinking Of You (I Drive Myself Crazy).”
If there's anything that proves you’ve made it, it's having someone write a diss track about you - For Chris, it was rapper Eminem who gave him the honor. Kirkpatrick was reportedly one of the few who stood up to the rapper and his outrageous insults.
Chris Kirkpatrick Today
Kirkpatrick moments have been iconic as far as pop culture goes. Several successful albums, a lawsuit against Lou Pearlman, and an Eminem face-off later, it’s not surprising why he chose to keep a low profile after NSYNC. He deserved that break, and then some.
Kirkpatrick has occasionally come out of hibernation to appear in a few shows. You may remember him in CMT’s Gone Country and even The Simpsons. In 2013, Kirkpatrick married Karly Skladany, and they now have a son together. The last we heard, the family moved from Orlando to Nashville.
The Phenomenon That Was 98 Degrees
The 90s were a sublime time to be alive, especially if you liked dreamy serenades and perfect choreography. Besides ‘NSYNC and the Backstreet Boys, another band tugged at the heartstrings of teenage girls – 98 Degrees. The songs and band members’ visual appeal checked all the mushy boxes.
Yet, this group was different. Unlike other contemporaries, the band formed independently — no audition calls or random, painful pairings that made zero sense. It’s one of the reasons why the band sold over 10 million records globally when the boy band phenomenon was waning.
Nick Lachey Then
Lachey always claimed he was the force and brains behind 98 Degrees. Ok, so we know he’s talented. But we also know better than that. Jeff Timmons was the heart and brains behind the band, and that’s a fact. Still, there’s no disputing that Nick Lachey was the most sought-after face in the group, at least by the paparazzi.
Whether the attention was primarily on him or on his beautiful blonde songstress girlfriend is a separate (but significant) matter.
Nick Lachey Now
Nick Lachey has been dizzyingly busy since 98 Degrees disbanded. He released four solo albums: “Soul O” (2003), “What’s Left of Me” (2006), “A Father’s Lullaby” (2013), and “Soundtrack of My Life (2014). He made successful forays into television as the host of “America’s Most Musical Family.”
He and his wife hosted Netflix’s “Love is Blind” (2020) and "The Ultimatum" (2022), both love-related social experiments. Reality TV is familiar ground for Lachey – except this time, a new star was by his side – his wife, Vanessa.
Jeff Timmons Then
Celebrities and crazy fans come in the same territory. With boy bands, the madness magnifies a thousand times. Just ask Jeff Timmons. His crazy encounter involved the band’s most popular single, “Invisible Man.”
A fan, who was obsessed with the song, decided to take things up a notch. The girl pretended to be an NBC reporter and entered backstage, proceeding to ask the band a bunch of questions. Security realized she wasn’t a reporter, at which point she freaked out and yelled, “I’m the invisible fan!” Timmons said it was harmless but scary. Ironically, being invisible sure would have helped.
Jeff Timmons Now
To say that Jeff Timmons was fit would be stating the obvious. The internet is home to a lot of visual evidence of how buff Timmons is. (Go ahead and check. We’ll wait). Everyone took their fitness seriously, but Timmons leveled it up! So, it might not be entirely surprising to learn about his adventures after 98 Degrees.
Timmons, along with his biceps, found a career calling in the Las Vegas strip as a Chippendale dancer! Yes, the legendary troupe of hot male dancers who bare all but do it stylishly. Timmons found great success as a dancer, singer, and even master of ceremonies.
Drew Lachey Then
So, we know that Drew Lachey is Nick Lachey’s brother. But here’s why the younger Lachey is a star in his own right. Before joining the iconic boy band, Drew was winning hearts in a different space. He was a combat medic in the United States Army, and it was chance that led him to 98 Degrees.
After one of the band members dropped out, Justin Jeffre suggested to Nick Lachey that Drew would be the perfect fit. From medic to pin-up boy, Drew easily made the shift. His serenades heal broken hearts just as beautifully.
Drew Lachey Now
The band may have gone on hiatus starting in 2003, but Drew Lachey was only getting started. He was following new passions, while his older brother seemingly enjoyed the spotlight bouncing off on him from Jessica Simpson’s face.
In 2006, Drew Lachey and his dance partner Cheryl Burke wowed fans and judges on “Dancing With the Stars” and won! The duo’s fabulous freestyle routine saw Lachey execute a superhuman vault over Burke’s shoulders. In 2019 he participated in American Ninja Warrior.
Justin Jeffre Then
Justin Jeffre is best known as one of the members of 98 Degrees. Like fellow bandmates, Jeffre attended the School for Creative and Performing Arts in Cincinnati. The choice of school was fate. Here, he met and became good friends with Nick Lachey. Neither boy had any inkling about what was to come!
The duo made the most of their days in school. They even joined a barbershop quartet while in school. All teenage boy stuff — until destiny arrived and blew their minds. The two later teamed up with Jeff Timmons and Drew Lachey to form 98 Degrees.
Justin Jeffre Now
Everybody wants to know what boy band members get up to after they disband. After 98 degrees, Justin Jeffre felt the pull to join politics. He made a bold decision to run for Mayor of Cincinnati in 2005. Nobody took him seriously. It didn’t help that the announcement took place on April 1!
Jeffre announced he would tour with 98 Degrees again if he didn’t win. The votes came in, and Cincinnati voted overwhelmingly in favor of the band reuniting instead. Jeffre won only 708 votes (2%) in the primary. We haven't really heard from him since.
Bonkers for Boyz II Men
The smooth serenades and success of Boyz II Men proved one thing beyond doubt. Sappy songs (aka pop music) can sound a thousand times better with a little help from R&B and Motown. Nonsensical lyrics aside, the vocals and harmonies in the group were outstanding. The world couldn’t get enough.
Boyz II Men’s debut album “Cooleyhighharmony” was at No. 1 for 50 weeks on the Billboard charts. Michael McCary, Nathan Morris, Wanya Morris, and Shawn Stockman were the boys of Boyz II Men. The group was one of the most successful R&B groups of all time.
Nathan Morris Then
Motown and R&B run in Nathan Morris’ veins. He wanted to incorporate the soul of these genres into the songs of Boyz II Men – he wasn’t always successful. The end product sounded indecisive – a bit of R&B, with some pop and Motown thrown in for good measure. As one of the founding members of the band, this didn’t sit well with Morris.
After bass singer Michael McCary retired, Morris and the remaining members released “Motown: Hitsville USA" in 2007. Morris called it an homage to Motown and a way to educate the present generation on modern R&B.
Nathan Morris Now
Nathan Morris has managed to change and yet remain the same. He’s passionate about music and is still performing with Boyz II Men. Besides working his vocal cords, Morris has managed a near-impossible total body transformation that could give anyone serious gym goals. The key, he says, is committing to a permanent lifestyle change instead of temporary diets.
The award-winning singer has also been flipping houses for years. In 2018, the HGTV show “Hit Properties With Nathan Morris” followed him around as he converted a run-down estate into a billion-dollar dream home. Embracing change looks effortless when Nathan Morris is involved.
Michael McCary Then
The ballads of Boyz II Men got an entire generation through trying pre-teen times. Crying into pillows became infinitely less painful with the boyz going to the ends of the road with us. The songs had depth, no doubt. But all that emotion reverberated from one focal point – the deep baritone of Michael McCary.
McCary’s range for a bass singer was sensational — his voice and face were the most recognizable in the industry then. It’s why the world referred to him as Mike Bass. His deep voice is almost synonymous with the Boyz II Men sound.
Michael McCary Now
When fans learned that Michael McCary was leaving Boyz II Men, the reactions were varied. Fans were shocked. The press and tabloids speculated wildly, eventually naming the whole thing a “typical band drama.”
In 2016, the world learned the real reason. In an interview, the award-winning singer revealed that he quit because of acute multiple sclerosis. McCary shared that he fell into a deep depression. The condition affected his relationship with the band, who became a trio after his exit. They are no longer on speaking terms, and sadly we haven't heard much from McCary since.
Wanya Morris Then
Wanya Morris is one of the remaining members of the Boyz II Men trio, along with Nathan Morris and Shawn Stockman. Don't forget his reputation wasn’t always squeaky clean. It was the early 1990s, and Wanya Morris found a protégé – Brandy Norwood or just Brandy to the world.
Morris took the minor under his wing. He connected her to industry professionals. As the two spent more time together, they fell in love. The media slammed Morris for having relations with her. The couple denied it but everyone knew the truth.
Wanya Morris Now
The glory days of Boyz II Men might be over, but not for Wanya and his bandmates. Wanya remains actively involved with Boyz II Men – touring together and appearing on shows like “Jimmy Kimmel Live.” The last we checked, Morris lives in New Jersey with his wife, Traci, and their six kids.
In 2021, he teamed up with AJ MacLean, Nick Carter, and Joey Fatone for a super special “After Party” residency in Las Vegas! The event was an homage to pop culture and each other’s songs. Let the '90s party never end!
Shawn Stockman Then
As one of the founding members, Shawn Stockman’s the man for inside stories. Stockman came up with the band’s name when he first heard the song “Boys to Men” on the radio by a group called New Edition.
Was that the best he could do? The name “Boyz II Men” was a tad corny. But Morris felt (and the world still agrees) that it was better than “Unique Attraction” – the band’s original name! Stockman says people who grew up in Philly in the ‘90s would get the cheesy reference.
Shawn Stockman Now
Once a crooner, always a crooner — Shawn Stockman is the most soulful there is. His mind-blowing tenor continues bringing down houses everywhere, whether performing solo or touring with Boyz II Men. Stockman enjoys spending quality time with his wife Sharonda and his kids.
Most recently, Stockman started a recording company called Soul Chemistry Projects. The last we checked, the label hadn’t scored a major distribution deal. That's the extent of our information on Stockman for now. He seems to be keeping a low profile lately.
Marc Nelson Then
Only the most dedicated fans remember that Boyz II Men had another original band member. Marc Nelson attended Philadelphia’s High School of Performing Arts, where he joined the band that became Boyz II Men. However, Nelson was gone before the band released its first album.
He claimed he never broke off from Boyz II Men, however. Another label was already interested in signing him as a solo artist. Nelson went to them with the prospect of Boyz II Men – which they turned down. Meanwhile, the Boyz II Men deal took off without Nelson, leaving him no choice but to sign independently.
Marc Nelson Now
Nelson almost succeeded in forming a supergroup. It was the MySpace era – when bands could put out music and make it big even before signing with a record label. Nelson and Tony Grant decided to form the mother of all bands with Az Yet, Silk, and Blackstreet — like the DC and Marvel forces combined, except musically.
They took the letters from the band’s names and came up with “Blayse." In 2016 he wrote the theme song for a Christmas movie named "Snowy Day" and was nominated for an Emmy for it. It's been radio silence ever since.
All-4-One
Anyone who loved during the ‘90s has heard All-4-One, or of them, at least, as there was no way of escaping them. Millions of fans the world over sang along to “I Swear,” “I Can Love You Like That,” and “I Turn to You.”
Their beautiful songs won not just hearts but Grammys as well. “I Swear” still holds the Billboard record for one of the most successful singles in history. Over two decades since their first breakthrough single, All-4-One has not broken up! Fandom, why is it we don’t discuss this more?
Jamie Jones Then
Jamie Jones found the answer to the makings of a successful band. You need to know how to sing, and enjoy singing with each other! Of course, we know it’s more complex than that, but those are the bare necessities.
Jones met future bandmates Alfred Nevarez and Tony Borowiak at a talent show. He then met a producer at church who presented him a copy of “So Much in Love.” The task? Find a group who can sing. Of course, it was Alfred and Tony. Later, they met the fourth member, Delious, at a karaoke show.
Jamie Jones Now
In 2020, Jamie Jones released his first solo Holiday EP titled, “Christmas at Home With Jamie Jones.” History has shown us that Holiday EPs are a tricky business, but this is Jones. And it’s wishful thinking that maybe, just maybe, the world can finally give Mariah Carey and Michael Buble a much-needed holiday break? One can dream.
As for Jones, he intended the album to be a healing experience for people dealing with the pandemic that broke out at the time.
Delious Kennedy Then
Before getting into details about Delious Kennedy –let's stop to appreciate that smile of his. Remember it? The smile that lit up our MTV back in the days. And of course, those vocals! For better or worse, till death did us part – Kennedy’s voice saw us through.
Like many other R&B artists, his story started in church. Later, Kennedy moved to LA without a job and only $900 when he met two blokes named Jamie and Alfred at a talent show. Like every person in LA, they said they had a record deal. But it turned out they actually did!
Delious Kennedy Now
Fast forward to today, and Kennedy’s up to some interesting things. For starters, he’s the co-founder of the Catalina Film Festival. Film buffs know it as one of the most prestigious festivals in the world – the Cannes of the west coast if you please!
The event is a destination festival that takes place on the pretty Santa Catalina Island in California. He also launched a talk show called “Flashback Tonight” in 2016. A show after that features celebrities from the 80s to the early ‘00s. Think of Richard Marx or Coolio on screen!
Tony Borowiak Then
Borowiak was known for his powerful vocals. Once you hear him, there’s no denying that a boy band is where he belongs! Since 1993, he’s been part of the beloved quartet All-4-One. Isn’t it a crime that he never got a solo during the band’s heyday? We swear we’d give anything to hear that.
Still, as masters of harmonies, All-4-One delivered the era’s most enduring love songs. Each band member’s voice came together beautifully.
Tony Borowiak Now
All-4-One has been on for decades now and counting. Therefore, any “now and then” comparisons seem silly here. Borowiak continues to perform with the guys as All-4-One. The band regularly goes on tour at home and abroad. They also appeared on several TV shows, such as the “Home and Family Show.”
You’ll also find several YouTube videos with Tony's soulful, gut-wrenching renditions of the national anthem. It’s been decades in the making, but we’re happy he finally got that elusive solo on a very important song.
Alfred Nevarez Then
Bass singer Alfred Nevarez was one of the first to join All-4-One. Like other band members, he never had formal vocal training. Nevarez sang in his church, which influenced his singing abilities. But that was the extent of his musical education until he joined the band.
The origins of All-4-One lie in the friendship between Nevarez and Borowiak. The duo was close in high school and even found jobs singing jingles at a radio station.
Alfred Nevarez Now
The men in All-4-One are proof that music and friendship endure. This wasn’t your motley crew put together by a slick marketing team. Alvarez was Mexican, but that’s not why he was in the band. When he’s not touring with the band in Japan or New Zealand, Alvarez keeps busy with family and speaking assignments.
He’s often known to discuss the themes of All-4-One songs – how most singles celebrate the value of sentimentality. Alvarez’s take on life is an orchid among weeds. In a world obsessed with protein shakes, we can’t stop, won’t stop admiring Alvarez’s vulnerability.
Hanson
We still haven’t deciphered the scatting sounds in the “Mmmbop” chorus. But one thing is clear – Hanson created pop-music history despite the odds. The three brothers (Taylor, Issac, and Zac) were all cute and good-looking, just the way a boy band should be! Some people even believed they were Mormons.
The haters continued hating. Meanwhile, Hanson’s debut album “Middle of Nowhere” received three Grammy nominations. The band’s lyrics soon became almost prophetic. Despite barbs and taunts, who did Hanson hold on to? Their fans! The only ones who really cared. There was no denying Hanson’s cultural impact and influence.
Taylor Hanson Then
Is Taylor Hanson a girl? If only Taylor had a penny for the number of times people asked this question... not like he needed those pennies. During the band’s heyday, Taylor never trimmed his gorgeous tresses (seriously, we have hair envy). Neither did he feel the need to buff up in the gym.
He said his brothers felt the same way. It’s refreshing in an industry where young artists are too eager to shed their teen image (we’re looking at you, Miley Cyrus). Taylor maintained that rebelling for the sake of it wasn’t true who they were – musicians first.
Taylor Hanson Now
Today, Taylor Hanson is virtually unrecognizable. He’s a family man. When we say “family,” we mean a potential supergroup. Currently, Taylor and his wife Natalie have seven kids. What else has changed? He’s retired those magnificent long tresses! Also, when you’ve been around your brothers for decades, some space and privacy might be in order.
Not so for Taylor Hanson. He still hangs out with his brothers all the time. And now they have each other’s kids spending quality time together too. Few things bring Taylor more joy than making music and starting new ventures with his brothers.
Zac Hanson Then
Often dubbed the baby of the group, Zac Hanson made hearts melt. He was only six when they formed the band. But what a pro he was on the drums – even if sometimes the drumkit looked larger than his entire body! Despite being the youngest, Zac was always in tune with the band’s songwriting process.
By the time he was a teen, Zac was effortlessly explaining Hanson’s songwriting process to the press. He called it mutual respect for each other’s musical ear and intuition. We’re thinking being brothers may have also helped things along.
Zac Hanson Now
After splitting with their record company over irreconcilable differences, Zac and his brothers formed 3CG Records. Their album “Underneath” debuted on Billboard’s Top Independent Albums Chart. No ordinary debut, but at Number 1.
The album is considered one of the most successful self-released LPs in music industry history. Zac has also made an appearance in Katy Perry’s music video. Today he's married and has five children!
Issac Hanson Then
Was it just us, or did others also spend every waking moment poring over Hanson’s CD booklet? Anyone? The boys were style icons. But Issac, the oldest brother, was particularly not keen on some of the creative choices. Like Taylor, he believed their style truly reflected who they were.
But at some point, the brothers needed a stylist – a fact that irked Issac to no end. Remember we mentioned those CD booklets? Issac thought some photographs were elaborate concepts that just didn’t fit. The fans loved them if that helps Issac!
Issac Hanson Now
All three Hanson brothers are married now and have 15 kids between them. How Issac met his wife is a dreamy story. Nicole (the lucky, lucky girl) is living every fan girl's dream – she married her celebrity crush.
She was in one of the Hanson concerts when Issac spotted her from the stage. He got the stage manager to stop her from leaving after the show. The two married in 2006. When he’s not in dad mode or making music, Issac runs a beer company with his brothers.
New Kids on the Block
They weren’t the newest kids on the block in the ‘90s — step by step, they became the coolest. New Kids on the Block combined all the right stuff — dance moves and mad vocal chops. Unlike other bands, they executed all of it in sync too! In 1990, the band released the album “Step by Step,” which went straight to the top of the Hot 100 Singles Chart.
Four years later, the group disbanded. In 2008, the boys hit the road on the wildly successful NKOTBSB Tour with the Backstreet Boys. Yes, that happened, and we literally can’t even.
Jordan Knight Then
Most people don’t know this but during the ‘80s the world went still. It was the day Jordan Knight appeared, inducing mini love-fuelled cardiac arrests. Knight was only 14 when he joined New Kids on the Block and quickly became a favorite with teen girls. At 16, he composed a track called “I’ll Be Your Everything,” but manager, Maurice Starr, refused to add it to the band’s repertoire. Threatened much?
Knight offered the single to a singer named Tommy Page instead. The track, produced by Knight, reached No.1 on the Billboard charts and stayed there for 13 weeks.
Jordan Knight Now
Knight went solo in 1994, teaming up with veteran producers Terry Lewis and Jimmy Jam. Like the now-famous lyrics of his single, Knight didn’t have to say a word — they were convinced! The “Give It to You” album and debut single of the same name was insanely successful. The single went platinum and the album gold in the United States.
His advice for aspiring boy bands? Don’t let it get to you — the jealous guys, screaming girls, or the press that belittles you. Sadly, this knight in shining armor likes his privacy and can't be found on social media.
Joey McIntyre Then
Joey McIntyre was the youngest member of New Kids on the Block and crooner extraordinaire. To the world, it seemed like the boys were dealing with the teen idol business quite well. But for Joey McIntyre, life seemed downright surreal sometimes.
For example, he was 18 when he first bought a huge colonial house in a posh neighborhood. None of it felt real. It was almost inappropriate, as Gen Zs and millennials today will make it a point to tell everyone. The decision was wise, but he didn’t see it back then.
Joey McIntyre Now
As much as he implored the world to stay the same, McIntyre himself reinvented himself significantly after New Kids on the Block disbanded. A successful solo career followed.
He made his debut on Broadway – notably in “Wicked” and “Tick, Tick…Boom!” McIntyre sashayed his way into the first season of "Dancing With the Stars," and somewhere in between, managed to star in his own sitcom as well! He’s a family man, as also a man of the world. But few things bring him more joy than reuniting with the old boys.
Mark Wahlberg Then
In a parallel universe, another Mark Wahlberg is probably grooving along as one of the OGs. The real world, in comparison, is disappointing — a world where Mark Wahlberg was never part of the band.
A young Wahlberg chickened out at the eleventh hour. He quit before New Kids on the Block hit the studios for the first time. We can’t help but wonder how things would have gone. Eventually, everything worked out pretty well when Joey cherub-hair McIntyre joined the band at age 12.
Mark Wahlberg Now
What has he been up to since? Where does one begin? The question isn’t what Mark Wahlberg has done after almost joining the band. It’s what he still hasn’t! It started with good vibrations as the frontman for his own group, "Marky Mark and the Funky Bunch." Calvin Klein then signed Marky Mark as the face of the brand.
Wahlberg has since become a Hollywood success with roles in “The Departed,” “Planet of the Apes,” and “Boogie Nights.” “Entourage” on HBO is loosely based on some of his early years in Hollywood.
Donnie Wahlberg Then
If you were a kid who grew up in the 80s or 90s, you grew up with Donnie Wahlberg. His fabulous voice was a boombox staple; his posters adorned many a bedroom wall. As the resident bad boy of New Kids on the Block, he made quite an impression.
He was also the first among the group to meet the band’s creator – Maurice Starr. This privileged position gave Wahlberg great vision and foresight. It was Wahlberg who guided creators on who would be the best fit for the band – Jordan Knight and Donny Wood, among them.
Wahlberg Is Still as Memorable
No longer new or a kid, Wahlberg’s evolution through the years has us stumped. Wahlberg today epitomizes successfully committing to the moment. Remember him in “The Sixth Sense?” We’ll forgive you if you don’t because Wahlberg was virtually unrecognizable in it.
A short but hauntingly memorable appearance in the award-winning film. We mean that in the best way. As Vincent Grey, Wahlberg set the bar for acting talent. He reportedly starved himself to best portray the character’s inner distress. Scenes with Grey provided some of the film’s most haunting moments.
Jonathan Knight Then
Those who’ve followed the band know that Jonathan Knight is much more than Jordan Knight’s sibling. Like the other Kids, he had his fair share of screaming fans following him around. Still, Jonathan was one of the quieter ones, staying away from the spotlight as much as possible. Many people had no clue that he suffered from debilitating anxiety.
His time with New Kids on the Block only exacerbated the struggle. The next time someone brings up how he was the first to leave the group, hit them with these facts. Perhaps they will be more inclined to kindness.
Jonathan Knight Now
The stigma of leaving a band first can follow you around for a lifetime. Jonathan Knight knows this all too well. Despite the unfair “traitor” tag, Knight has bounced back and done exceedingly well for himself. He eventually sought treatment for his anxiety disorder which considerably helped. Knight also found his feet outside the music industry in real estate.
He’s been renovating old homes for over 25 years. So, he’s still creating magic but in a different setting. Catch him in action on his own home renovation show on HGTV.
Danny Wood Then
Words fall short when describing Danny Wood. He's a songwriter, producer, and singer. He's best known as a global sensation and one of the boys in New Kids on the Block.
Here are two other things you should know about him: Does anyone remember how virtually any New Kids’ track sounded impeccable? The world has Danny Wood to thank. When he wasn’t singing, Wood was in the studio doing engineering work. Secondly, Wood was the best dancer in the group. He pursued breakdance with a passion and even had a troupe of his own in Boston.
Danny Wood Now
Life’s changed remarkably for Danny Wood since New Kids on the Block disbanded. What hasn’t changed is how talented the man is. We think he’s only getting better with time. He also creates tremendous beauty out of despair. One of his memorable ventures is an album called “Stronger: Remember Betty” which was a tribute to his late mother. She passed after battling breast cancer.
In 2015, he released a beautiful single called “Endlessly” – once more, in his mother’s honor. Wood also started the “Remember Betty Foundation,” which supports the treatments and recovery of breast cancer patients.
The Brief Spark That Was LFO
The ‘90s were an era of many great things – but you have to admit that boy bands are at the top of that list. We’re talking about none other than the Lyte Funky Ones or LFO.
LFO exuded a kind of California cool that gave them an irresistible draw. From “Summertime Girls” to “Girl on TV,” LFO’s music was easy breezy, reminiscent of fun times at the pool, maybe on the beach. The music was chill, but real life turned out darker for the Lyte Funky Ones.
Rich Cronin Then
The late Rich Burton Cronin was the lead singer and founding member of LFO. The band was unfairly dismissed as one-hit wonders. But when it was time to shine, the group lit things up. Part of the reason for that was Cronin’s voice and songwriting. He was the creative force behind hits like “Summer Girls” and “Girl on TV.” “Summer Girls” reached No. 3 on the Billboard 100 chart.
Speaking of the girl on TV, Cronin and Jennifer Love Hewitt (who stars in the video) dated for a while after they met on set.
Rich Cronin Now
After LFO disbanded, Rich Cronin starred in “Mission: Man Band,” a VH1 reality show. Reality TV has a bad rap today, and everyone knows why. But Cronin kept an outstanding company on the show – including ‘NSYNC’s Chris Kirkpatrick and Jeff Timmons of 98 Degrees.
Tragedy struck in 2005 when Cronin was diagnosed with acute myelogenous leukemia. Despite the pain, he released a solo album in 2008 and formed a rap duo with Doug Ray. After a long battle with cancer, Cronin suffered a stroke and died in hospital. He was 35.
Devin Lima Then
The original LFO line-up comprised Rich Cronin, Brad Fischetti, and Brian Gillis. Where was Devin Lima? He joined the band after Gillis left in 1999. The band decided to hold an open audition to find their new member. And find him they did! Devin Lima killed it at the auditions. The fire to succeed was evident. Lima was working at a hardware store back then.
The audition meant everything to him. Soon, Devin came up with the idea to shorten the group’s name to LFO. We’re better off for it because "Lyte Funky Ones" doesn’t quite cut it, does it?
Devin Lima Now
Devin Lima became the second LFO member to pass away in his prime. In 2018, doctors found that he had a cancer type that was “one in a million.” It was stage 4 adrenal cancer, for which Lima underwent surgery. The doctors removed the adrenal gland, but cancer had spread to his kidney.
Lima fought valiantly, but the disease got the better of him in 2018. His eerie last wish was for bandmate Brian Fischetti to tell fans that he had simply “disappeared.” Lima left behind a wife, six children, and devastated fans.
Brad Fischetti Then
It seems like yesterday when the group came together in boy band paradise, aka Orlando, Florida. Fischetti — an aspiring model back then — first met Rich Cronin in the city. The two became friends and spent the next two years perfecting their vocals and dancing.
When Devin Lima came on board, the holy trinity was complete. The group saw some success but it wasn’t significant. By 2002, LFO disbanded.
Brad Fischetti Now
Brad Fischetti continues touring and performing to honor the legacy of the band. He often shares how willing himself back to life after bandmates Cronin and Lima died was tough. Fischetti started a record label called “One Eleven Records” in 2002, which he continues to run.
Since then, he’s also hosted the Pop 2000 Tour concert show featuring Ryan Cabrera, Aaron Carter, and the boy band O-Town. One of the bittersweet highlights of the show was a medley of LFO songs that he sang with O-Town.
Brian Gillis Then
Founding member Brian Gillis famously quit LFO out of frustration. He was sick of LFO being an opening act. When he was still with the band, Gillis was known as "Brizz," with double z for a menacing effect.
He really disliked being clubbed in with Backstreet Boys and ‘NSYNC – groups that ironically saw enormous success. Still, despite not being pleased with all aspects of being a part of LFO, Brian stayed with the band for four beautiful years, from 1995 to 1999.
Brian Gillis Now
So, what happened to Gillis? At first, he went solo and his solo career wasn't unsuccessful. But weirdly, when it comes to today, it seems like he has completely vanished. Not even YouTube mentions something about his solo career. Some online entries mention college tours and a job at a radio station.
We imagine this isn't quite what he had envisioned for himself when he left LFO. Still, if you happen to stumble upon information about him online, please let us know, we're dying to see how he's doing!