Backstreet Boys bring ‘Millennium’ nostalgia to Las Vegas Sphere
The iconic boy band is making history as the first pop act to perform at the revolutionary venue, launching a summer residency that celebrates their biggest album’s 25th anniversary.
Breaking new ground at Sphere
AJ McLean, speaking from his Las Vegas rental home where he’s settled while house-hunting, reveals the Backstreet Boys are embracing a unique challenge. Unlike rock acts who’ve previously graced the Sphere stage—U2, Eagles, Dead & Company—the pop quintet plans to maintain their high-energy performance style while utilizing the venue’s cutting-edge technology.
“We’re still doing what we normally do,” McLean explains, noting that 85% of their show involves dancing and running around. The group launches their “Into the Millennium” residency on July 11, with shows running through August 24 after adding three final dates due to overwhelming demand.
Celebrating a milestone album
The residency commemorates the 25th anniversary of “Millennium,” the 1999 blockbuster that sold over 13 million copies in the U.S. and spawned the timeless hit “I Want It That Way.” The band will perform the entire album from start to finish, including deep cuts like “Back to Your Heart” and “No One Else Comes Close” that haven’t been performed since the original tour.
“We actually joke about missing the actual anniversary during the show,” McLean admits, explaining that the eight-month production timeline pushed them past the exact date. A deluxe reissue of the album, “Millennium 2.0,” drops July 11 featuring 25 tracks including remastered originals, live recordings, demos, and a new song called “Hey.”
Creating new memories
The Sphere experience promises to be emotional for the group, particularly during “The Perfect Fan,” which Kevin Richardson will open. Following the recent loss of his mother, Richardson asked his bandmates to sing the opening line with him—marking the first time they’ve ever sung a song’s opening together.
McLean has encouraged fans to wear white to create a sea of nostalgia reminiscent of 1999. “I think it’s gonna be emotional for some of us,” he reflects.
Practical details
The residency includes 21 total shows with tickets starting at $58 for Friday and Sunday performances. Various VIP packages are available through Vibee, offering luxury hotel stays at The Venetian or Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, along with exclusive after-parties at Voltaire where select band members will appear.
McLean, who previously performed in Vegas during the group’s 2017-2019 Planet Hollywood residency, notes the grueling preparation schedule—production rehearsals running from 11 p.m. to 4:30 a.m. after the venue’s regular programming. But the 47-year-old sees it as worthwhile, especially with family nearby and potential tax benefits drawing him to make Vegas home.
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Category: Nightlife
Subcategory: Entertainment
Date: 07/10/2025
