news archives

October 31, 2002 - Miss Blabba Mouth of Groovevolt.com reports that while Nick Carter promotes his debut solo effort 'Now or Never', his Backstreet Boys bandmates have started recording their new album without him. "They have to fulfill their obligations to Jive Records and they really don’t care if Nick returns to the group or not," said a source. Read more.

October 31, 2002 - Danisha writes "Pop guru and billion dollar businessman Lou Pearlman, the man who put together pop sensation boybands *NSYNC and the Backstreet Boys, has just released his autobiography, 'Bands, Brands, and Billions'. In the book, Pearlman compares Backstreet to Coke, writing, 'If Backstreet turns out to be a dominant brand like Coke, someone is going to come along and create a Pepsi. We might as well beat them to it.' Pearlman's Pepsi, is of course, *NSYNC. He continues, 'I identified the popular music market and, more specifically, the teenage girl audience as the primary target for the music and merchandise of the Backstreet Boys. My challenge was to convince the millions and millions of teen pop music buyers that the Backstreet Boys were the brand name band they should buy into.'"

October 31, 2002 - Star magazine has more details on the medical problems that are facing Bob Carter, the father of Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter and Aaron Carter. Denying he has cancer, Bob explained, "I just ate too much bad food on this summer's tour with Aaron. I'm hurting, but not dying. Nick just came home to make sure I was OK. He's a good boy." The specific ailment is diverticulitis, an acute bowel inflammation. "Touring is a young man's game," the elder Carter admitted. "I should have known better."

October 31, 2002 - Rex Features has photos of Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter promoting album 'Now or Never' at Virgin Megastore in Times Square, New York on Tuesday (October 29). Check out the pictures here.

October 31, 2002 - Globe Photos has more footage of Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter promoting his new solo album, 'Now or Never' at Macy's Herald Square in New York City on Monday (October 28). Check out the pictures here.

October 31, 2002 - MTV Total Request Live spoke with Backstreet Boys star Howie Dorough at the Latin VMAs and asked the singer when the group planned on working on their next album. Howie said he has been writing for the next album and they have a tentative schedule in place. "Right now hopefully geting in the studio next year and hopefully touring." Asked if they'd be touring Latin America, Howie said, "The whole tour again."

October 31, 2002 - Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter celebrated the release of his solo debut album 'Now or Never' at New York City's Q Lounge yesterday. Some of the celebrities at the album release party were WNBA star Sue Bird, Victoria Gotti, Samantha Cole, Mia, MTV VJ Brian McFayden and his girlfriend Nicky Hilton, Liris Crosse, MTV VJ Damien Fahay, and Audrey Quock. Check out pictures from the event at WireImagecom, BigPictures, GettyImages, and LFI.

October 30, 2002 - elgato writes "Barnes and Noble has a review of Nick Carter's solo debut album 'Now or Never.' They say on "his urgently titled, rockin' debut, 'Now or Never,' Carter sounds surprisingly convincing as a frontman." Nick charms with "the Bon Jovi–esque 'Miss America.' " In that song, the Backstreet Boys star "cleverly serenades his dream girl with smooth lyrics such as, 'In the land of the free/Make a prisoner of me/Close my eyes and you're all that I see.' " Read the full review here."

October 30, 2002 - Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter stopped by MTV's Total Request Live on Tuesday to promote the release of his new solo debut album 'Now or Never'. Nick again denied reports that his Backstreet Bandmates planned on touring without him, saying he talked with Kevin Richardson the other day who complimented him on the new album. Nick also went through the TRL Wringer. Read on for a transcript.

October 30, 2002 - Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter gave Katrillion.com reasons to buy his debut solo album 'Now or Never'. "First, I've been very lucky to be around people who write incredible songs," Nick said. "I'm a song person and there's not one song that sounds the same. I've been fortunate to work with the same producers and writers again and I learned to write songs. It's a fun album. Either people will like it or they won't. It's rock-based. People will be surprised." Read more.

October 30, 2002 - Dan Aquilante of the New York Post reviewed the debut solo effort of Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter, calling 'Now Or Never' an "interesting record." Aquilante says, "Had Carter taken a giant step into the realm of rock this would have been a better album, but it still stands as an interesting record by an artist in transition - who hopefully won't regress when he hooks up with his bandmates." Read more.

October 29, 2002 - Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter just finished up his chat on MSN. Asked if he misses his Backstreet bandmates when he's performing all alone, Nick says, "Yes I do. I sometimes look around and wonder where they're at. But I realize everything they've taught me, everything I do, and everything I've done, they've taught me. I feel no matter what happens, they'll always be with me. I do enjoy being on stage, even though it's by myself. I like to show people what I love to do and that's sing. I love to entertain and make people happy." Read more.

October 29, 2002 - HitsDailyDouble.com reports Eminem's '8 Mile' soundtrack looks set to easily win next week's album chart battle with its release tomorrow. Most figure it will sell at least 800,000 copies, while Christina Aguilera ('Stripped'), Nirvana ('Nirvana'), Shaggy ('Hey Sexy Lady'), and Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter ('Now Or Never') will battle for the rest of the top 5 slots.

October 29, 2002 - elgato writes "BackstreetNews Group at Yahoo has a fan's summary of Nick's show in Tampa, Florida. She says "He came out in handcuffs and started out with 'Blow Your Mind'...because he'd been a 'very bad boy.' He also had on a prison-like orange jumpsuit to go along with the handcuffs. When getting into the slow songs, Nick said 'I wanted to write some love songs with...balls.' For the 'Help Me' performance, 'the ENTIRE CROWD sang 'I gotta KNOW, KNOW!'' Then a loud video with a bunch of bleeps played. She says 'HOLY sh*t, IT'S HIS BOOTY CALL MESSAGE!!!' He ended with 'Who Needs the World' with a lot of adlibs like he was really into it. It was AWESOME!!! He said thank you Tampa and took off. The lights are off but he's still standing there." Read more.

October 28, 2002 - Linda Laban of CDNOW has a review of Nick Carter's debut solo album 'Now or Never.' Linda admits that there's a Nirvana guitar riff at the beginning of 'Help Me.' She also notes that "Now seems to derive its inspiration from such pop-metal boys as Def Leppard and Bryan Adams." She finishes with "He keeps his subject matter light, sticking to the things a worldly 22-year-old success story might bother about; namely, girls ('Miss America') and having a good time ('Is It Saturday Yet')." The complete review can be seen here.

October 28, 2002 - Entertainment Tonight has a feature on Nick Carter and his solo debut album 'Now or Never.' Nick told ET that 'My Confession' is "being at the point where I wanted to confess everything to a girl." ET says that 'I Stand for You' is reminiscient of Def Leppard. And then Nick "turns the volume all the way up to 11 on 'Girls In The USA,' a heavy tune reminiscent of KISS' stadium rock. Nick also tells ET that his new motto is "If I can't have fun doin' it, I ain't gonna do it!" When predictably asked about how this album affects the Backstreet Boys, Nick assuringly says "I feel this is going to make me a better person, a better entertainer. I feel that when I go back to the Backstreet Boys I'll have more to offer." The full article can be seen here.

October 28, 2002 - After making a second appearance on a Latin music awards show, Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter tells the Miami Herald he's going to try and learn Spanish. "I'm going to start studying Spanish," he said. "Next time I come here, I don't want to miss anything." The MTV Video Music Awards Latin America will be rebroadcast at 8 p.m. November 1 on MTV. Co-hosts Mario Pergolini and Diego Luna had confounded Nick when they asked him, "Hey man, where's Britney Spears?" Check out a review of the event here.

October 28, 2002 - Nick Carter recently spoke with Australia's Big Hit magazine. Asked whether he felt the Backstreet Boys hadn't given him the freedom to express himself, Carter said, "Well, in a group in general, you're one of five or however many people are in your group, and the object of the group is to do it as a group and not as one plus four, like a solo person stepping out. That's what the group has always been about. And in a scenario like that, you don't get to show your whole self, so of course I wouldn't get that chance and so now this is different - of course, it's all me." Read more.

October 27, 2002 - Courtney Mullin of MTV wrote on the Total Request Live diary for October 16th: "I called a bunch of die-hard Nick Carter fans and invited them to see his performance on the 23rd. Their reactions were priceless - hopefully I'll get my hearing back in my left ear. It's great to give huge fans the opportunity to see their idol - that's what TRL is all about. Nick is by far the most popular Backstreet Boy. I still have nightmares about past BSB appearances on TRL. Times Square would pretty much shut down. BSB fans were everywhere! I would have hundreds of people screaming in my face, crying and trying desperately to convince me to let them in. Never understanding that we have capacity issues, and I am only allowed to bring a certain number of fans into the studio." Read more.

October 27, 2002 - Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter stops by MTV's Total Request Live on Tuesday.

October 27, 2002 - A fan on the Backstreet Boys forum at Live Daily wrote "...when my friends and I got there [Virgin Megastore], about 20 peeps were ahead of us. We got there around midnight. By about 6 am the crowd tripled, and I lost count by the time 9am came around for the store opening. The line was around the corner and people kept piling in...Nick will be there [October 29th] at 5:30(which is like 6:30 BSB time ) and he will sign about 550 cd's. I am SOOOO excited!" She goes on to say "I went to check and see if Virgin had received more 'Help Me' import singles, and they had. They had about 10, they were gone within 10 minutes. I was like WTF? I just saw them! LMAO." Read more.

October 27, 2002 - Jaan Uhelszki of Amazon.com writes of Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter's debut solo album 'Now or Never': "If anything will drive a nail into the Backstreet Boys' coffin, it's this surprisingly impressive solo album from Nick Carter. The first of the Fab Five to break out on his own, Carter reveals a rocker's heart that's lurked under his high-gloss pop exterior. While he rasps and struts through his 12-song debut, we're not talking headbanging mayhem here. Carter excels in the brand of guitar rock that put Bon Jovi and Bryan Adams on the map." Read more.

October 27, 2002 - BSBfanatic935 writes "Backstreet Boys star AJ McLean and his fiance, singer Sarah Martin, will be appearing on 'Crossing Over' with John Edwards on Thursday (October 31). The perfect day to get back in touch with the ones that have.... crossed over to the other side. AJ's bandmate Brian Littrell and his wife, Leighanne (pregnat with a baby boy due December 6th) appeared weeks earlier with their reading. Check local listings for channel and time."

October 27, 2002 - Many Backstreet Boys fans got to meet Brian Littrell recently at the 'Breakfast With Brian' charity event. The breakfast was in support of the Brian Littrell Healthy Heart Club and featured an auction and a meet-and-greet. A fan who was at the event posted her experience on the LiveDaily board. Amongst her comments was the following information about the Backstreet Boys' new album: 'Brian said the new album should be (early?) 2003 with a tour that would follow but it wouldn't be directly after the release of the CD. He said that that doesn't always work but that it did with Millennium but they'd like to wait for a couple singles to come out and then tour (that's what he said he suggested).' Her entire post can be viewed here.

October 27, 2002 - Teen People asked *NSYNC star Justin Timberlake if he felt any competition towards his Backstreet Boys rival Nick Carter, as both prep to release their debut solo albums. "Oh totally! [laughs] I'm kidding. I don't feel competition. I heard [Nick's single] 'Help Me', and I think it's a great song. People are ready to hear a new Bryan Adams. My record is something different- I wanted to change what people were listening to. If you were 16 or 17 when *NSYNC came out, you are probably 21 or 22 now. I know the kids are going to dig [my music], because it's a new sound."

October 27, 2002 - Matt Chock of the Cornell Daily Sun weighed in on the Nick Carter performance on TRL's 1000th episode earlier this week saying, "I'd be happier with this whole Backstreet Boys hiatus thing if the members stopped putting out crap solo projects. Now instead of dealing with one Backstreet Boys album every few months I have to deal with five; there's only so many CD's a man can burn in a day."

October 27, 2002 - Nick Carter tells Isaac Guzman of the New York Daily News that he will be there when Backstreet begins recording its next album. "There were a lot of emotional feelings in the beginning," Carter says. "But the fact was that they understood a lot of it afterwards, because it is that personal to me. Because with them, they want to get married and they want to start families, and I just want to rock out and sing and play music and have fun. And they see that it's helping me. It's making me a better person." Read more.

October 26, 2002 - Thursday night's 2002 MTV Video Music Awards Latinoamerica saw attendees such as Shakira, Avril Lavigne, Paulina Rubio, Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter, Carlos Santana and Michelle Branch, Anastacia, and more. Check out photos from Star File Online, Big Pictures, Rex Features, Getty Images, and LFI.

October 26, 2002 - Katrillion.com spoke with Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter, who admits that he's not sure if his debut solo album 'Now or Never' will do well on the charts. "I don't know if I'm going to be successful," Nick says. "It's not the most important thing. The most important thing is to perform and to make people happy. I don't care if I sell 10 albums or 10 million albums." Read more.

October 26, 2002 - Amy C. Sims of Fox News reports that with pop stars now entering their 20s, many are eager to shed their adolescent image. *NSYNC star Justin Timberlake and his Backstreet Boys counterpart Nick Carter each are releasing their debut solo albums and are trying to shed the sweet for sultry. "Fourteen-year-olds are over Justin, but women in their 20s now think he's hot," said Atoosa Rubenstein, editor of Cosmo Girl. On the female side, Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera have each sexed up their images, which may turn off some teens. "As Britney has changed her image, there is a direct correlation with her drop in popularity," said Rubenstein. "Aguilera's new video is one step away from pornography. Teenage fans feel alienated by the new image -- they can't bring it home." Read more.

October 26, 2002 - Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter explained how he's not dating Britney Spears.. yet again, to Manchester Online. "I've been single for a while and I like being single because you just really concentrate on yourself and learn how to love yourself and be the kind of person you need to be," Carter said. 

October 26, 2002 - Keith Caulfield of Billboard.com fielded a question from a Backstreet Boys fan wondering why *NSYNC is perceived as the bigger act in the boy band world. Caulfield says, "For each groups three studio sets, 'N Sync has moved 24.5 million copies of its albums, while Backstreet Boys have sold 27.4 million. Your point has been proven." He continues, "Why has the media and the general public perceived *NSYNC as the more successful of the two acts? Radio is a factor." The last two *NSYNC albums have produced more top-20 hits (6 in total) on Billboard's Hot 100 than the Backstreet Boys have (3 in total) by comparison. Read more.

October 26, 2002 - In anticipation of their album releases, Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter and *NSYNC star Justin Timberlake will appear on separate one-hour live radio specials, available for airing on stations nationwide. Each special will be hosted by Z-100/New York's Paul "Cubby" Bryant" and will feature candid live in-studio interviews with the stars, plus songs from the new albums. Listeners will have the chance to speak live with Carter and Timberlake via a designated 800 call-in number and interactive e-mail. Nick's hour long special airs Monday, October 28 at 7 p.m. PT / 10 p.m. ET, while Justin's airs Monday, November 4 at 7 p.m. PT / 10 p.m. ET. The special broadcast is available through Premiere Radio Networks, via StarGuide on Premiere 5.

October 26, 2002 - Coolio, Backstreet Boys star AJ McLean and his fiance Sarah Martin, Aaron Carter and Caitlin Wachs, and Morris Day were on hand at South Park's 5th Anniversary Party on Thursday (October 24) at Quixote Studios in Hollywood, California. Check out pictures from Getty Images, LFI (page1 / page2), WireImage.com, and Image Direct.

October 25, 2002 - CDNow.com was the latest in the string of media outlets wanting to ask Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter and *NSYNC's Justin Timberlake about wheter there is any competition in their upcoming solo debuts. "Not at all. I think, honestly, he wants to do R&B and I want to do rock," Nick said. "We both have something to prove. He's got more going for him at the moment, but that's okay. I want to sweat. I don't want it to be easy. I don't want people to necessarily like me in the beginning. I like being the underdog." Timberlake's responded, "I'm really indifferent about that whole situation. Obviously, I've answered so many questions about my personal life. I wish him the best. As far as anybody comparing the two of us at this point, I feel like it's kind of lazy ... you can tell that we're two totally different artists. It's like comparing Coldplay to the Vines."

October 25, 2002 - rachelle_canada writes "Today, on the pre-show for the MTV Latin Awards, Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter confirmed that the second single for 'Now Or Never' will be 'Do I Have To Cry For You?' He also said that the song might be re-recorded in Spanish."

October 25, 2002 - WireImage.com has photos of the MTV Video Music Awards Latinoamerica 2002 held at the Jackie Gleason Theater in Miami, Florida. On hand were Anastacia, Avril Lavigne, Michelle Branch, Santana, Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter, Paulina Rubio, and more. Check out the pictures here.

October 25, 2002 -  A fan on the LiveDaily.com message boards got to sit next to Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter as a seat filler during last night's MTV Latin Video Music Awards in Miami. Sparklysuperstar writes, "I got to sit next to Nick! So when I sat down he said 'hi' and I said 'hi'. Then he stook his hand out and I shook his hand! Then he asked me what my name was and put his ear there for me to tell him (ah!) and I was like 'Yoska' and he repeated it. He's so freaking cute my goodness! But then, an MTV person came and asked him if he was ready to [get] up already and he said yeah so turns to me and says 'Sorry, I have to go' and I think I nodded lol I don't remember, but then, he leans in and KISSES MY CHEEK! Ahh I could NOT believe it! He's so sweet! I still can't believe it actually happened you guys! I'm sooo happy!" Read more.

October 24, 2002 - Fiveguysentertainment.com has a video clip of Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter performing his hit 'Help Me' on MTV's Total Request Live 1000th Episode special earlier today. Download and watch here. Nick's debut solo album 'Now Or Never' drops on Tuesday (October 29).

October 24, 2002 - It was a big day on MTV's Total Request Live on Wednesday as they celebrated their 1000th episode. Guests included Kid Rock, *NSYNC's JC Chasez, Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter, B2K, Vanessa Carlton, Ashanti, Blink 182 frontman Mark Hoppus, Nelly phoned in, and No Doubt. Performances were by No Doubt and Nick Carter. Highlights included JC and Nick giving each other's bands props, Nick revealing he went to Vanessa Carlton's show, and JC announcing that he isn't dating anyone at the moment because he's too busy. For a transcript of the interview portions of the show, read here.

October 24, 2002 - Aaron Carter weighed in on Justin Timberlake in the new issue of J-14, and what he considered an unforgettable blunder to his *NSYNC bandmates. "I like *NSYNC and all the guys are my friends, even Justin. But I was like, 'Why did he diss them on that song 'Gone'? He should have saved it for his album." As for how he stacks Timberlake up against his Backstreet Boys brother Nick Carter. "Nobody competes with my brother," he said. "He's incredible... I'm not even going to listen to Justin's stuff."

October 24, 2002 - Nick Carter has explained to J-14 magazine why he took a break from the Backstreet Boys to make his debut solo album 'Now or Never'. "It's not like I planned on doing a solo album," said Nick. "When we came back from Japan, the other guys decided to take a little time to spend with their wives, and I was kind of bored. I mean, I don't have a wife or girlfriend." Nick also talked about his life becoming "out of control" after he turned 21. Check out scans from the photo feature here.

October 24, 2002 - Anonymous writes "A new Backstreet Boys fansite, dlsonline.net, slated to open on November 1st, 2002, has released an amazing 'promotional video' that features many clips of the guys from music videos and concerts. The intention of the video is to 'hype' up fans for the grand opening of the website but the video is a highly enjoyable whether you're looking forward to the site or not. To check out the video for yourselves, click here."

October 24, 2002 - Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter has again denied that he's dating fellow pop star Britney Spears. "Whatever," Nick told Katrillion.com. "It's not true right now. She's an attractive girl. The press is gonna spark something if they're not careful. I don't know her." Read more.

October 24, 2002 - elgato writes "Awhile back, Nick Carter of the Backstreet Boys chatted with UK fans through Top of the Pops online. Various fans got to ask him questions, and Nick casually and promptly responded. One fan, Beth, found out that Nick has connections to Prince William. Nick said "I was sitting down chilling when Prince William came walking in. It was funny because I can’t really remember how it happened. We just chilled, had a couple of drinks and bounced. Bu that was about it. He’s a cool cat. He wanted to dance and I was like, 'I don’t feel like dancing right now.' I’ve had a couple of drinks. I want to just chill. He’s a great guy. He’s a cool guy. You never know, you might see me at one of his events or concerts together. Hopefully he will come to one of my concerts when I play over here." The full transcript is available here."

October 24, 2002 - WireImage.com has photos from the 1000th episode of MTV's Total Request Live earlier today at Times Square in New York City. Included in the pictures are Ashanti, host Carson Daly, Gwen Stefani and No Doubt, Kid Rock, Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter, and Vanessa Carlton. Check out the photos here.

October 23, 2002 - elgato writes "As WNBA star Sue Bird and Olympic gold medalist Sarah Hughes were announced the Sportswomen of the Year by the Women's Sports Foundation team, they also found they had a friend in common: Nick Carter of the Backstreet Boys. Sarah started her interview by speaking on Sue. "It's the first time we've met," Hughes said. "But we were both at the Espys, and she was with Nick Carter of the Backstreet Boys. I met him at the Grammys. A lot of girls would've been very happy about that. I was asking her if she was bringing him to [last night's annual WSF awards dinner]." "

October 23, 2002 - Sneak magazine gave Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter a quirky survey to fill out in his own writing. A scan of the article can be seen here.

October 23, 2002 - Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter is listed amongst the 'Your TOP 10 holiday hotties' in the new issue of Twist magazine. They also include a tale of the tape piece between him and *NSYNC star Justin Timberlake before both release their debut solo efforts. Twist gives Timberlake the nod saying, "It looks like Justin's 'Justified' in his bid for #1, but we think there's room at the top for both of them." Check out scans here.

October 23, 2002 - What does a 5am booty call from Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter sound like? See for yourself at 95.3 FM Orlando here.

October 23, 2002 - Fans can download Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter singing 'Help Me' and hear his interview on the 'Regis and Kelly' that aired on Monday morning. Join the nickismytroll1 Yahoo Group and download the files here.

October 23, 2002 - Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter spoke with the Canadian Press about his solo debut 'Now Or Never', an album he defended the timing of. "I’m here to prove my point — that I love rock music and I can do it," Nick said. "I can do it to the point where it’s not faking and being somebody else." As for whether fans will accept his new image? "Nick Carter is what you’re going to see here," he said. "Music is music, it doesn’t have to be so difficult. If the damn thing sounds good, that’s good." Read more.

October 23, 2002 - elgato writes "Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter's solo debut album 'Now or Never' is, as promised, now available for streaming on the MTV website in its entirety. MTV opens with a short summary of Nick's motivations for the album and what to expect. To get a first listen of 'Now or Never' go MTV.com."

October 23, 2002 - According to MTV.com, Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter's song 'End of Forever' will be included on the soundtrack to the upcoming animated film, 'The Wild Thornberrys'. Other artists involved include Paul Simon, Angélique Kidjo, Dave Matthews, Peter Gabriel and Sean 'P. Diddy' Combs. You can check the full track listing over at MTV.com.

October 22, 2002 - Carson Daly told viewers on MTV's Total Request Live on Monday that Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter has denied he's dating Britney Spears, as was reported in Us Weekly last week. "I actually spoke with Nick Carter today and he wants to tell everybody out there he is not going out with Britney Spears," Carson said. "In fact, he's only met her like four times. Unfortunately, I think he said he's not going out with her but that's just a rumor and he is excited about the new record which is very, very rock heavy as you see one of his videos."

October 22, 2002 - elgato writes "A fan from the Backstreet Boys Forum at LiveDaily.com submitted to BackstreetNews Group at Yahoo her experience meeting Nick Carter this morning on Regis and Kelly. She said that Nick told her to wave at the ET cameras which had been following Nick all morning. So, you can watch ET over the next couple of days and probably catch a special on Nick promoting 'Now or Never.'" Read more.

October 22, 2002 - dum_BLONDE writes "Rumors are floating around at the LiveDaily discussion boards that all (or almost all) five of the Backstreet Boys are planning on making a surprise appearance together at TRL's 1000th episode on Wednesday. Although the source isn't completely reliable considering the information comes from a user's "friend in the music business." We'll just have to wait and see!"

October 22, 2002 - elgato writes "According to the BackstreetNews Group at Yahoo, Kevin Richardson of the Backstreet Boys has contributed two songs to Stephen Craig's debut album. Stephen is the son of Marie Osmond and nephew of Donny Osmond. The songs are called 'Just Say So' and 'Back in Love Again.' On a side note, Kevin's first concert was Donny and Marie, so it's nice that he gets to work with someone in their family. You can check out the songs here."

October 22, 2002 - elgato writes "I got this from BackstreetNews Group at Yahoo. In the liner notes to Nick Carter's "Now or Never," he thanks his fans for giving him the opportunity to do what he loves. Then he thanks his group Born Into Kaos. He also thanks his family, including his mom, dad, and Aaron. Last but definately not least, Nick thanks his brothers Howie, Kevin, AJ, and Brian. He dedicates the entire album to BSB. Read on for all the "thank you's.""

October 22, 2002 - elgato writes "On BriLeigh Productions official site (BriLeigh is the production company of Backstreet Boys star Brian Littrell and wife Leighanne), fans can go to the site at and hear the soundtrack to the movie 'Olive Juice'. The movie stars Leighanne, with cameos by Brian and AJ McLean. Brian produced the soundtrack which can be bought at Amazon.com. Check out song snippets here."

October 22, 2002 - elgato writes "According to backstreet.net, JNN, the foundation founded by Backstreet Boys star AJ McLean, is running a new program called Old Cellulars for New Beginnings. The program provides cell phones for womens' shelters and neighborhood watch programs. Send your old cell phones to: 
Old Cellulars for New Beginnings
c/o JNN Foundation
PO Box 691809, Orlando, FL 32869, USA
(407) 888 8191"

October 22, 2002 - Us Weekly asked MTV's Total Request Live host Carson Daly what he thinks was the show's most unreheared appearance. Daly cited the Backstreet Boys, who showed up last year to reveal that AJ McLean was in rehab. "TRL is a place to get the record straight," he said. "It was somber, but they were taking a step in the right direction."

October 22, 2002 - elgato writes "This morning, Nick Carter appeared on Regis and Kelly. Regis introduced Nick as he walked out on stage while his band played the music of 'Girls in the USA.' Regis laughed at all the chains Nick was wearing. Nick joked his mom used to put chains on him as a kid to hold him back. Nick said being the baby of the Backstreet Boys, he has a little bit of each AJ McLean, Kevin Richardson, Brian Littrell, and Howie Dorough in him, seeing as how they practically raised him. Later, he performed 'Help Me' live."

October 22, 2002 - elgato writes "Be sure to catch Backstreet Boys star Howie Dorough and singer-songwriter Pollyanna at the first ever Latino America MTV Video Music Awards on Thursday (October 24). The show will be held in Miami, Florida and will air live on MTV2 at 9 pm. Howie will be presenting an award. His bandmate Nick Carter is also scheduled to make an appearance. He's either presenting or performing."

October 22, 2002 - The lyrics to Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter's debut solo album 'Now Or Never' are posted on NickCarter.2ya.com. The album drops October 29th.

October 20, 2002 - Anonymous writes "Check out my personal photos of Backstreet Boys star AJ McLean with his fiance Sarah Martin from their interview on Friday (October 18) at 102.7 KIIS FM Los Angeles. The couple were on with JoJo during the Top 9@9."

October 20, 2002 - rachelle_canada writes "National Geographic's website has a video featuring Kevin Richardson. In it, the Backstreet Boys star encourages visitors to the website to complete 'a conservation activity' in order to help preserve the United States' public lands. You can check it out here."

October 20, 2002 - The Yahoo group nickismytroll1 has the audio available for Backstreet Boys star AJ McLean's appearance on JoJo's Top 9@9 on KIIS FM in Los Angeles on Friday. Join and download the tracks in 16 parts here. Or, check out a pretty thorough run-down of what happened during the interview here.

October 20, 2002 - Glenn Gamboa of Newsday weighed in on the "Clash of the Titans" in the music industry's fourth quarter, which has plenty of heavyweights putting out new work. In the 'Boys to Men' class that pits *NSYNC star Justin Timberlake with 'Like I Love You' against Backstreet Boys rival Nick Carter and 'Help Me', Gamboa says, "Justin. By a knockout." Read more.

October 20, 2002 - Anonymous writes "Backstreet Boy Nick Carter's album of songs he performed when he was little will be released on Tuesday (October 22). 'Nick Carter: Before The Boys' was suppose to be released August 31st, but was delayed, until now. You can pre order it at amazon.com."

October 19, 2002 - rachelle_canada writes "AJ McLean is currently on KISS-FM's Top 9@9. He just said that the Backstreet Boys will be going into the studio to start recording their next album in March 2003 with a tentative release date for the first single at the beginning of the summer and for the album at the end of the summer. He also said that he is working on a solo album but has no plans to release it any time soon."

October 19, 2002 - CDNow.com's Miss Truth reports that during Ryan Adams concert at the Vic Theatre in Chicago Wednesday, he peformed the beginning of the Backstreet Boys' 'I Want It That Way.' Afterwards, he ripped fellow boyband member Justin Timberlake of *NSYNC, calling his debut solo album "boring." Adams said that he "understands why Lance Bass wanted to go to the moon. He probably heard an advance copy." Read more.

October 19, 2002 - Aftonbladet reports that the Backstreet Boys will tour beginning in April or May of 2003 and will be helped by magician Joe Labero, who will coordinate special effects. The article is in Swedish, which includes a picture of Joe and Howie Dorough here.

October 19, 2002 - Deb's BSB Site has the performance by Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter on Top of the Pops which aired today. Check out Nick singing 'Help Me' here.

October 19, 2002 - Capital FM in London is giving away signed and framed artwork from Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter, plus there are singles and albums for the runners up. Enter to win here.

October 19, 2002 - elgato writes "Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter sat down with Smash Hits (Australia) and was interviewed by several psychologists for fun. They asked him a series of questions and analyzed his answers in-depth. They gave conclusions as to how Nick sees himself, and how other people see him. The transcript is available here."

October 19, 2002 - The Herald Sun chatted with Nick Carter and asked him if stories that his Backstreet Boys bandmates being upset over his making a solo album were true. "I don’t know if it’s true," he admitted. "I’ve heard some things about that, but I don’t believe the guys would be like that." Does that mean he hasn't been talking with his bandmates during the break? "It’s not a break from each other, it’s more, I really wanted to do this. And we’re gonna get back in … I’m gonna get back … I would love to get back with them and record some music." Read more.

October 19, 2002 - rachelle_canada writes "AJ McLean is currently on KISS-FM's Top 9@9. He just said that the Backstreet Boys will be going into the studio to start recording their next album in March 2003 with a tentative release date for the first single at the beginning of the summer and for the album at the end of the summer. He also said that he is working on a solo album but has no plans to release it any time soon.  Read more.

October 18, 2002 - Mundo BSB Latino has photos of Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter during his visit to Japan earlier this month to promote 'Now Or Never'. Check them out here.

October 18, 2002 - Backstreet Boys star AJ McLean and his fiance Sarah Martin will be on JoJo Wright's show Friday night on KIIS FM in Los Angeles. JoJo's show is on from 7-11 PM PST, and AJ and Sarah are supposed to help out with the Top 9 at 9 Countdown. You can check out a stream and webcam here.

October 18, 2002 - The transcript and audio to Nick Carter's interview on Q100 earlier today has been posted. Besides giving the health update on his father that we reported earlier, the Backstreet Boys star talked about his *NSYNC counterpart Justin Timberlake. Read the transcript here and interview here.

October 18, 2002 - Backstreet Boys star Brian Littrell and his wife Leighanne spoke with People magazine about her pregnancy which will soon result in the first baby Backstreet Boy. They also talked with Brian's bandmate Kevin Richardson, who says the guys "are still together, but we also have to give each other space." Brian might need a little extra space when they do get back together though, as he's packed on the pounds like his pregnant wife. "I've put on a good 20 lbs. since we got pregnant", he says. "I've definitely had the pregnant brain, forgetting everything like crazy." Read more.

October 18, 2002 - Dees Sleaze reports Britney Spears and Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter disappeared in a hotel room most recently in London, where they reportedly stayed in the same room for three full days. The couple leave and arrive at different times reportedly to distract attention. Listen to the clip here.

October 18, 2002 - MTV Asia reports that with a well-planned promotional trip, the "Nick Carter fever" has indeed gone to an all-time high with all major media in Japan reporting about the trip. Not only did the Backstreet Boys star's debut single 'Help Me' chart at No. 1 on Japan's Oricon International Singles chart, pre-order sales also paved the way for a major album release in Japan on October 23. Fans not residing in Japan will have to wait a little longer though as 'Now Or Never' is only scheduled to be released on October 28.

October 18, 2002 - Aaron Carter's official website has told fans that there information that Bob Carter was doing fine was incorrect. Andy writes, "Hey Guys, I just received a phone call from Nick Carter himself about the condition of his dad, Bob. Apparently I was given some misleading information about his current state, but the fact is Bob is ill right now. While the doctors are looking for the cause to his illness, Nick has come home to take care of his father and be with the family. Bob is in good spirits right now, and Nick is doing everything he can to help his dad get back on the road to recovery as soon as possible. Please join me in including the Carters in your prayers so that everything can turn out for the best."

October 17, 2002 - sunchick05 writes "Nick Carter fans didn't seem to raise enough votes to get on the MTV show, TRL today. Then again today was a really wacky day for music artists as No Doubt was also taking a break from the countdown today. But could this be a sign for the future of 'Help Me'? If you want to vote and get Nick and the first song off his solo album 'Now Or Never' go to mtv.com and click TRL."

October 17, 2002 - Some conflicting information is about as Aaron Carter has posted the following on his official site: "Hey everyone! I just needed to clear the air about some rumors going around that are totally False!!! There are stories being spread around that Bob is really sick and stuff like that, but I assure you, and this comes from Big Bob himself, that he is fine, in great health, and enjoying some time home with the family where's he's relaxing and enjoying some time on the boat with Aaron! Thanks for everyone's concern, though!! Andy"

October 17, 2002 - dum_BLONDE writes "A poll has been launched at NickCarter.com, asking which song the fans like best from the audio player. This could possibly contribute to the choice of Nick Carter's next single, so go vote now for your favorite song."

October 17, 2002 - Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter has seen his album 'Now or Never' leak to the internet ahead of its October 29th release. The mp3's are available for download here and likely soon on KaZaA and other P2P services.

October 17, 2002 - Q100.com reports Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter was forced to postpone his Atlanta visit to be by his father's side, as Bob Carter was sent to the hospital on Tuesday night. Nick was supposed to phone into the radio station sometime today, but apparently his manager called in to say that Nick is still at the hospital and can't be reached right now. Read more.

October 17, 2002 - Nick Carter chatted with Holland's Breakout magazine and was asked if he missed performing with the Backstreet Boys now that he's ventured off on his 'Now Or Never' solo project. "Definitely," he said. "This whole solo-thing is new to me and I'm enjoying it, don't get me wrong, but still I really look forward to being on stage with the Backstreet Boys again." Check out the entire interview here.

October 16, 2002 - Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter chatted with Blender magazine for their new issue. Asked if he were to wake up dead tomorrow, who would be the leading suspect, Nick responded, "I don't know. That's hardcore, bro!" The interviewer probed, "You're thinking of someone. Who?" Justin Timberlake," Nick laughed. "I'm just joking. I don't even know him." Read more.

October 16, 2002 - Sad news has been making the rounds tonight as reports are circulating that Bob Carter, father of Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter, has cancer. Some upcoming appearances by Nick have are being postponed a few weeks. Read more.

October 16, 2002 - elgato writes "According to Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter's official website, fans will be able to hear the full length 'Now or Never' at MTV.com beginning October 22nd. This information appears when you go to the website and "launch the playa" to hear clips from 'Now or Never.'"

October 16, 2002 - AJsLadybug writes "Backstreet Boys website Dirty Little Secrets (www.dlsbsb.cjb.net) posted this yesterday: "Earlier today, Pink was interviewed on Extra and was asked about the supposed rivalry between Justin Timberlake and Nick Carter and all of the hype behind it. She stated that Nick's material is something that "everyone should listen to" and that it sounded more "real" than the music of Justin Timberlake. She closed by saying that she was definitely supporting Nick Carter over Justin.""

October 14, 2002 - Sarah Martin, fiance of Backstreet Boys star AJ McLean, told fans on her Loving Sarah Yahoo Group new details on their upcoming wedding, the surprise birthday party of Kevin Richardson, and their upcoming appearance on 'Crossing Over', which should air on Halloween. Sarah says, "Whats up people? I keep sneezing! I really quite enjoy sneezing. It kinda' feels good, no? So hows my crew? Dude, I'm sorry about last night. I have tried to read some of the posts after mine last night. Maybe some of your suggestions will be helpful. Heres whats going on this very moment... Alex is in bed across the room (half asleep, but I keep seeing him look over every few seconds). I was just reading some of the newer messages to him. He's got one big snoring 'Byrd' lying next to him, and our little Daisey is on the floor. Tank is in another bedroom down the hall snoring like a piglet!" Read more.

October 13, 2002 - NickCarter.com has been updated again. On his site, you will be able to launch a 'Nick Carter Player' that will allow you to hear longer versions of the Backstreet Boys star's 5 songs. The 5 songs included in this promotion are 'My Confession', 'Do I Have To Cry For You', 'Miss America', 'I Just Wanna Take You Home', and 'Who Needs The World'. Launch the player directly here.

October 12, 2002 - Go to MTV.com to vote for your all-time favorite Total Request Live classic video as many times as you want, then tune in to TRL to watch Nick Carter and No Doubt perform on October 23rd. There will also be appearances by Ashanti and Vanessa Carlton, with more to come. Read more.

October 12, 2002 - If You Missed 'The Fridge' featuring Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter you can watch repeats on Saturday, October 12, 2002, 23:00 (CET) and Sunday, October 13, 2002, 17:00 (CET) on MTV Europe for Video of 'Help Me' and the second part of Nick's interview with Neil Cole.

October 12, 2002 - HMV.co.uk reviewed the debut solo single from Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter. They rate 'Help Me' "a perfect showcase for another side of the singer's personality." The site adds, "'Help Me' is a superb solo debut that'll surprise cynics and please existing Backstreet fans whilst at the same time winning Carter a whole bunch of new admirers. Excellent!" Read more.

October 12, 2002 - The full article in Sneak magazine where Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter spoke about his drinking problem has been posted. Nick commented, "I'd go on stage, then come off, drink and go partying -- that's what my life consisted of. I'd turned 21 and I didn't know what was going on. I just wanted to hang out and be like all the college kids. You see other people with a life and you think, 'I want that' -- and you party twice as hard." Nick admits, "I didn't stop the partying until I started recording my solo stuff. Suddenly, it hit me -- I'd found myself again. I'd found a way to release stuff I'd been holding in since I was a kid." Read more.

October 11, 2002 - BSBfanatic writes "Backstreet Boys star Howie Dorough was at the 'White Oleander' premiere at Grauman's Chinese Theatre in Hollywood on Tuesday (October 8). You can see pictures from the event here."

October 11, 2002 - The interview Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter did with Capital FM a few weeks ago has been posted on the station's website. Asked if his 'Now Or Never' solo project is a bit of a surprise to his fans, Nick responded, "Yeah, and in the beginning I think it was kind of a surprise to the guys too. It's been the same thing for ten years, and me being the youngest meant that going off and trying something new was a weird thing. But they got used to it. I think it's going to attract different fans, but as long as they see that I'm happy and they see that it's helping me, the fans will support me." Listen to the entire interview here.

October 11, 2002 - E! Online's Ted Casablanca reports the birthday bash for Backstreet Boys star Kevin Richardson included a game requiring the celebrity contestants, which included his BSB bandmate AJ McLean, to go naked in a chilly swimming pool. Ted says, "Of course, they attempted to cover their pert parts with their hands--but wowzas, was there plenty of shimmering and scintillating skin." Read more.

October 11, 2002 - The full length version of a new Nick Carter single has emerged. Download the Backstreet Boys star's 'Do I Have To Cry For You' power-ballad off his 'Now Or Never' album at the NickFiles4 Yahoo group.

October 10, 2002 - elgato writes "According to the BackstreetNews group, Nick Carter will be flying with 150 Japanese fans on October 10, right before he heads back to the U.S. The flight, which was the Backstreet Boys star's idea, will be a fan conference. The lucky 150 will get autographs and get to ask questions. Nick said he wanted to do something special for all the Japanese fans."

October 10, 2002 - Nick Carter's official site has listed appearances the Backstreet Boys star will make when he returns to the U.S. later this month. Nick will be on Regis & Kelly on 10/21, he'll co–host and perform on MTV's Total Request Live on 10/23. Then on the following day, look for Nick at the MTV Latin America VMA’s. Nick will be back on TRL on 10/29 when his 'Now or Never' album drops. Read more.

October 9, 2002 - BSBfanatic writes "Kristin Richardson, wife of Kevin Richardson of the Backstreet Boys, is currently appearing in an LA Theatre in a production of 'I'm Here Because of My Wife.' Read more.

October 9, 2002 - Mandy Moore on the Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter to Bliss magazine, "They're all fun. I went out to lunch with Jack Osbourne and Nick Carter was in the same restaurant, so Jack and I played a joke on him. We got the waitress to take our bill over and say that Mandy and Jack didn't have enough money, so could he pay. He thought the restaurant were messing him around until he spotted us and chased us out."

October 9, 2002 - Maybe MSN knows something we don't. The site is promoting an upcoming chat stating, "This former Backstreet Boy breaks out on his own with his new record, 'Now or Never.' What does Nick have to say about his life without the band? Ask him." Read more.

October 9, 2002 - Deb's BSB Site has a clip of Nick Carter being interviewed on a Kids UK TV program called 'Diggit'. The Backstreet Boys star answered one of the questions by saying that he would like to live in the UK. Download and watch the clip here.

October 9, 2002 - AaronNews.com reports for those wondering about Nick Carter's book 'Brotherhood' - it has been slipped way in the future. Here is what they [they presumably means Amazon.com?] said in reply to an order for the Backstreet Boys star's book: "We are sorry to report that the official release date for this book has been pushed back to 1/31/05."

October 9, 2002 - Nick Carter Yahoo Group nick_files has clips of the Backstreet Boys star where he performed 'Help Me' and 'My Confession' in Japan, as well as an interview -- featuring hundreds of screaming Japanese fans. Join the group, download the files, and listen here.

October 8, 2002 - rachelle_canada writes "Recently, Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter's Online Street Team sent out an email to its members encouraging them to send 'Help Me' to #1 on Launch's music video countdown by watching the video on launch.yahoo.com and telling others about it. Also, it informed them that the three street team members who told the most people about the video would win a Nick Carter baseball cap. Finally, it mentioned that, starting this Friday, 'Do I Have To Cry For You' will be on AOL's First Listen for three days, seemingly implying that this song will be the second single from 'Now Or Never.' Read more."

October 8, 2002 - Ting on the LiveDaily.com forums got a chance to meet Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter during his stop in Japan where he's promoting his new album 'Now Or Never'. Ting said, "Sunday evening, straight after alighting from my flight, I headed to the hotel where Nick stay. And boy am I lucky, Nick comes out at the moment I stepped into the lobby. I asked for a photo with him. He asked me to go wait outside. Outside the hotel, there were about 50 fans and manz, he signed autographs for all fans and bonus, a picture with each of us. He was so down to earth! Ahhhhhhhhhhhhh! It's my first day and already I have such an awesome encounter!" Read more.

October 7, 2002 - Anonymous writes "October 7th was declared the offical Backstreet Boys day by the mayor of Orlando, Florida back in 1998 when the world's biggest pop group emerged and dominated the music scene. They also received the key to the city. So, put on your latest BSB baby-tee, pop in your favorite CD by the Boys, watch the best home videos, take time and learn the hip dance moves, and celebrate the phenomenon that is the Backstreet Boys."

October 7, 2002 - dum_BLONDE writes "Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter made an appearance on the Saturday Show today, which was previously recorded while he was in London not long ago. Rather than having an interview take place, its Nick showing the camera a collection of various things about his life including the hotel he's staying at, and much more. You can download a zip (.ram) [website censored by request]."

October 7, 2002 - rachelle_canada writes "In a recent interview, John Dolmayan from the rock band System Of A Down had this to say about the Backstreet Boys: "If System of a Down works for them, then great. If the Backstreet Boys work for them, that's cool too. See, I don't think anyone has the right to tell people what's good or bad. It's all about personal taste. It's about where you come from and what has brought you here... Let's take the Backstreet Boys for example - no one has the right to criticize them unless they know what they have been through, what their influences were. It really fu**ing bugs me when people slam other stuff, without knowing anything about it. If it's not what you like, that's fine, but if other people like that, so be it. Those people who don't like our music, that's their right. Their stuff might not be my thing, but other people like it." The whole interview can be viewed here."

October 7, 2002 - Backstreet Boys star AJ McLean tells Us Weekly that he is a self-professed "fast food junkie." McLean's favorite fast food is "Mickey D's cheeseburger." To clean himself out, AJ detoxes with ginger juice. "It's really healthy, and it cleans you out," he said.

October 6, 2002 - Comedian Ted Alexandro was on Last Call with Carson Daly Friday where he joked during his stand-up, "Yeah. So, just had the [9.11] anniversary of all the things that happened in the country. I stopped watching the news after a while. You know, kind of depressing -- same stories over and over again. I started watching the entertainment news. That was a good diversion -- you watch that. I saw an interview with one of the Backstreet Boys, who was like, 'You know, when something like this happens, it makes you feel like what you do is insignificant.' And I thought, you know -- [ Laughter ] -- You should feel that way all the time. Because what you do -- [ Laughter ] -- Is insignificant. Hold onto that feeling, A.J."

October 6, 2002 - Colin Paterson of the Guardian is sharing his thoughts on the solo projects of *NSYNC star Justin Timberlake and Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter. Paterson said, "The boys have abandoned pop and are aching to let everyone know the Lou Pearlman days are behind them. Nick Carter has obviously studied past form. He may have ditched the other four Backstreet Boys, but this solo venture features just as many chins. Like Freedom-period Robbie, Nick is showing his independence by piling on the pounds." As for his *NSYNC counterpart, "Justin Timberlake is predominantly relying on the Neptunes, who originally wrote these songs for Michael Jackson. He was not interested." Read more.

October 6, 2002 - Anonymous writes "I have been trying for the past couple weeks now trying to go to the Backstreetboys.com website, where the fan club is usually still up, despite the official public site being down. Some are wondering if the fan club members will have extra time to be in the fan club, since they had to pay to get in, for a 1 year, limited time. On another note, just because their site is down, doesn't mean the Backstreet Boys are over. I believe they have their website goes down every time before a new album comes out to make a lot of great new changes to the site! In case any Backstreet fans are interested."

October 6, 2002 - Nick Carter fan site NickCarter.2ya.com has photos of the Backstreet Boys star on the taping of 'American Dreams', as well as pictures of Nick leaving the Mandarin Oriental in Hyde Park, London. Check them out here.

October 5, 2002 - Kat Carney of CNN Headline News caught up with Backstreet Boys star Howie Dorough to talk about the disease that took his sister Caroline's life, and his efforts to find a cure with the Dorough Lupus Foundation -- as well as educate people on the disease. "To me the biggest thing is creating awareness of the word Lupus," he said. "Educating people to put the word in their mind." Read more.

October 4, 2002 - Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter stopped by TV Total in Germany. Nick talked about how the group hasn't split up, how BSB initially got successful in Germany and opening for DJ Bobo, playing more of a rock-feel on his solo effort, his hair, and then the host played his Backstreet rip-off band parody clip. Watch the interview here.

October 4, 2002 - Bill Zwecker of the Chicago Sun-Times reports a source who's very connected in the music business does confirm seeing Britney Spears and Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter ''at a couple of [music] industry parties. ...I really don't think there's anything serious going on there, but who knows? I thought that rumor about J. Lo and Ben [Affleck] was just hype.'' This on top of reports in Us Weekly suggesting the pair ''met up at a few places in Los Angeles and New York'' recently--including a L.A. dinner date that ended at Spears' home.

October 4, 2002 - Chris Heath of Dotmusic.com reviewed the debut solo single from Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter, giving 'Help Me' a 0.5 out of 5. Heath said, "...He's gone for the pop rock-lite option instead of replicating BSB standards with different titles. Fair play, but either way it's hardly a risk strategy for a young man with a fanclub membership that probably out-numbers the entire population of England." Read more.

October 3, 2002 - Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter performed on VIVA in Germany today, where he did a few lines of Enrique Iglesias' hit 'Hero', just for fun, laughing between a few lines. Join the Backstreet Media Fantasy II Yahoo group, download, and listen here.

October 3, 2002 - Backstreet Boys star AJ McLean and fiance Sarah Martin went for a hike recently and wound up getting stunk by dozens of bees, forcing them to strip their clothes and seek medical assistance. Sarah writes on her LovingSarah Yahoo group, "Alex was in front of me and he grabbed onto a tree branch because he lost his balance. It broke off and he fell 15 feet down into a yellowjacket HIVE!!!I fell off the edge right on top of him and realized that my body suddenly felt like it had been dipped in acid. That's how painful these stings were! We were screaming from the pain and STILL had no idea what was happening to us because we could'nt see a thing! I finally went running towards a light and caught a glimpse of what I was covered in. Alex yelled, 'Oh my God! What the hell is this?' I said, 'It's bees!' By this time, they were inside our clothes and undergarments. So without thinking, we were both tearing off our clothes, smacking them off of us. They were infested in my hair (The pain, ya'll!The pain!!) Finally this SUV starts heading down the road, and it was some guy, who was shining his brights on us (In our underwear. Not to mention that Alex had a machete' in his hand). We ran to the window of his car, pounding,screaming, 'HELP!'. So of course he locked his doors and drove away quickly. We called my friend who works in the area and she came and picked us up." Read more.

October 3, 2002 - AJsLadybug writes "October 3rd is Kevin Richardson of the Backsreet Boys' birthday. And I just wanted to wish him a happy 31st birthday!"

October 3, 2002 - Dita writes on the Backstreet Boys forum at LiveDaily.com: "I heard from a pretty good source that the Backstreet Boys are planning on recording their next album without Nick. And they will be touring again without Nick. So, now they are 4, and things are not good between them either. Apparently Kev, Brian, AJ and Howie are a little bit 'angry' at Nick. I cant say that I blame them either. I am disappointed in the whole thing. I thought Nick was better than that. He can have a solo album and still be part of the Boys, but apparently he does not want that. Or someone is telling him not to 'want' that." Read more.

October 3, 2002 - Groovevolt.com reports Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter hasn't had much success with his solo debut. 'Help Me' has yet to chart on Billboard’s Hot 100 and Jive Records seems more concerned about promoting *NSYNC rival Justin Timberlake. Rumors now are that Nick's album will be pushed back. Read more, including news on Michael Jackson's latest attempt at a CBS special, Christina Aguilera picking up Tiffany Glasses, and more here.

October 3, 2002 - Conan O'Brien joked during his Late Night monologue on Wednesday, "It was reported today that Britney Spears, who used to go out with a member of *NSYNC, is now dating one of the Backstreet Boys. Yeah. Yeah, when asked about it, Britney said, 'Everyone has a certain type, and my type is gay men.' That's what she said."

October 2, 2002 - Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter addressed the perceived rivalry with Justin Timberlake of *NSYNC as both prepare to drop their debut solo albums. Nick tells Radio 1, "First of all, the kind of music I'm doing is more rock/pop and his is more like pop/R&B. So, you know, it's two different worlds, you know what I'm sayin'? I'm cool with Justin, I'm cool. I ain't got no problems with him." He added, "I'm sure everybody's gonna try to compare it and say 'ooh, here's the next rival'. When you start to get involved in the whole rival thing, it tends to take away from the creativity of the music... what you're doing it for in the first place."

October 2, 2002 - Us Weekly is reporting that Britney Spears has been dating Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter recently following her breakup to rival boy band star Justin Timberlake of *NSYNC. Some are reporting the two have "met up at a few places" in both Los Angeles and New York, though reps for both singers deny the claim.

October 2, 2002 - The video for Top of the Pops chat with Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter on September 26th is online. Nick fielded questions from fans and talked about the downsides of fame, he confirmed the Backstreet Boys are still together, how he's handling doing interviews on his own, and more. Watch the interview here.

October 1, 2002 - Star magazine reports Nick Carter was spotted by a group of pre-teen girls playing tennis in Los Angeles, where they asked the Backstreet Boys star for autographs. When the sweaty Nick took off his shirt, their interest changed. One girl gasped, "Look, he's fat!" pointing towards Carter's love handles. Her friends responded, "You're right. He IS fat!" The fickle fans made gaggin noises and quickly left the stunned singer, without any autographs.

October 1, 2002 - October Backstreet Boys TV appearances. Check them out here.

October 1, 2002 - Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter was just on Los 40 Principales Fan Club, a Spanish radio station, and they played three new song clips ('Blow Your Mind', 'Girls in the USA' and 'Miss America'), about a minute and a half each. You can find those clips here.

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