Backstreet Boys to Get Back on the Road

What was supposed to be the Backstreet Boys' triumphant return to the top of the pop ladder, Black & Blue World Tour 2001, has turned into a public relations disaster. Weeks of shows have been cancelled around the world as a result of A.J. McLean's unplanned admission into a rehabilitation facility where he is being treated for alcohol dependency. With 'N Sync and other boy bands already robbing the Backstreet Boys of their once-unrivalled popularity, the timing of their latest setback could not have been worse. All does not appear to be lost, however, as A.J. is said to be ready to rejoin the band at the end of August.

"We've spent some time with A.J. recently and he, along with the rest of us, is excited to return to our tour on Aug. 24,'' band member Brian Littrell said in a statement Tuesday. It's safe to assume that legions of fans share Brian's sentiments and there should be no shortage of interest once the tour finally resumes.

Some in the industry are viewing this setback as an opportunity for the band to shed it's cheesy, boy band image and possibly penetrate a more hard-edge music listening market segment. After all, you have to go to rehab at least once if you're going to be a real hard-core band, right? Either way, the Boys are going to be back on the road at the end of August, ready to sing and synchro-dance their way back into your hearts. Just don't let them near your liquor!!