Iconic 90s boy band Backstreet Boys return with a catchy, fun, and soundly executed new single, “Don’t Go Breaking My Heart.”

“Backstreet’s back ALRIGHT!” Whether or not you’re a stubborn guy who doesn’t want to admit it like many girls freely will, Backstreet Boys are an iconic group.  Yeah, their music was bubblegum pop at its corniest and schmaltziest but lie like you didn’t “want it that way.” Honestly, the boy band’s collaboration with Florida Georgia Line on “God, Your Mama, and Me” probably elevated their stock – they’ve been relatively quiet in the 10s.  But enough small talk, let’s get to the comeback single at hand, “Don’t Go Breaking My Heart.” 

Upon first seeing the arrival of the new single, “Don’t Go Breaking My Heart” made me personally think of a previous Backstreet Boys hit, “Quit Playing Games (With my Heart)”. Sure, that gem is from 1996, but if we associate the boys most with their success in the 90s, could that be an issue going forward 22 years later? Just food for thought. Obviously, “Don’t Go Breaking My Heart” is a completely different song, even if matters of the heart are nothing new, though still interesting and relatable at this point.

“Don’t Go Breaking My Heart” is an enjoyable, respectable comeback for Backstreet Boys.  This is a record that sounds fresh and modern, clearly updating the sounds of old for the band.  No longer are these guys boys, they’re men, and fittingly, “Don’t Go Breaking My Heart” gives them a more mature sound.  That said, they don’t sound boring or like ‘has beens’ in the least.  Perhaps the tenor of Nick Carter (first verse and bridge) isn’t as boyish as it was in the 90s (we’d hope not), but he still sounds youthful and vibrant.  Likewise, AJ McLean (second verse) and the rest of the boys continue to compel, particularly fueled by the bright piano and synths of the backdrop, not to mention terrific vocal production.  The chorus is clearly the centerpiece, with the pre-chorus perfectly building up to its glory.

“Baby, don’t go breaking my heart, breaking my heart
Cause it’s the only one I got.”

Final Thoughts 

Are the 90s making a massive comeback? First Christina Aguilera (Liberation) and now Backstreet Boys? The results are incredibly positive for BSB, who clearly prove on “Don’t Go Breaking My Heart” that they have a place in pop music in 2018.  This is a catchy, fun, and solidly assembled pop record.

Backstreet Boys • Don’t Go Breaking My Heart – Single • RCA • Release: 5.17.18

Photo Credits: RCA