Source: Groove Volt

Jive Records refused to comment about reports that the Backstreet Boys are trying to get out of their contract. An employee at BMG, home of Jive Records, says, "They are trying to strike a deal where they can be signed by another BMG affiliate. BMG has first dibs on Backstreet if they should leave or be dropped by Jive Records. This means they have the opportunity if presented to them to sign with RCA, J, or Arista. The problem here is that none of these labels are interested in Backstreet Boys because of all the legal baggage that could carry over." In addition, Arista, J, and RCA are restructuring and have no plans to sign any high-profile artist at this time. So where does this leave Backstreet Boys? "They have recorded new music with several producers but that has been put on hold. The group members are not sticking together on the issue at hand and that is key in the contract negotiations." While the Boys have issued a statement saying they will record when "the time is right," many wonder when that will be. Nick Carter has finished his tour and is not planning a follow-up to his solo debut, Kevin Richardson has completed his run with Chicago while the rest of the boys are enjoying their freedom. The summary? The Backstreet Boys could end up departing the label, leaving Jive without a top-selling group and fans without a new album.

< Back to News