The Backstreet Boys came together in Orlando, Florida in 1993. The group features five members: Nick Carter, Howie Dorough, AJ McLean, Brian Littrell, and Kevin Richardson. They stood out by mixing smooth harmonies with catchy pop beats.
The group has sold over 100 million records worldwide, making them the best-selling boy band of all time. Their 1999 album “Millennium” broke records by selling over 11 million copies in its first week. They have earned multiple Grammy nominations and continue to perform sold-out shows across the globe.
About the Song
The song “I Want It That Way” came out in 1999 and quickly became the Backstreet Boys’ signature hit.
Its simple yet powerful lyrics about love struck a chord with fans worldwide. The chorus, with its question “Tell me why,” has become one of pop music’s most memorable moments.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Release Date | April 12, 1999 |
| Album | Millennium |
| Writers | Max Martin, Andreas Carlsson |
| Producers | Kristian Lundin & Max Martin |
I Want It That Way Lyrics by The Backstreet Boys
Intro: AJ
Yeah
Verse 1: Brian
You are my fire
The one desire
Believe when I say
I want it that way
Verse 2: Nick
But we are two worlds apart
Can’t reach to your heart
When you say
That I want it that way
Chorus: Nick, All
Tell me why
Ain’t nothin’ but a heartache
Tell me why
Ain’t nothing but a mistake
Tell me why
I never wanna hear you say
I want it that way
Verse 3: AJ, AJ & Brian
Am I your fire?
Your one desire
Yes, I know it’s too late
But I want it that way
Chorus: AJ, All, Brian
Tell me why
Ain’t nothin’ but a heartache
Tell me why
Ain’t nothin’ but a mistake
Tell me why
I never wanna hear you say
I want it that way
Bridge: Kevin, Kevin & AJ, All
Now I can see that we’ve fallen apart
From the way that it used to be, yeah
No matter the distance, I want you to know
That deep down inside of me
Verse 4: Howie, Nick, All
You are my fire
The one desire
You are (You are, you are, you are)
Don’t wanna hear you say
Break: All, Nick
Ain’t nothin’ but a heartache (Hey, yeah)
Ain’t nothin’ but a mistake (Don’t wanna hear you say)
I never wanna hear you say (Oh, yeah)
I want it that way
Chorus: Brian, All, Nick, AJ
Tell me why
Ain’t nothin’ but a heartache
Tell me why
Ain’t nothin’ but a mistake
Tell me why
I never wanna hear you say (Don’t wanna hear you say)
I want it that way
Tell me why
Ain’t nothin’ but a heartache
Ain’t nothin’ but a mistake
Tell me why
I never wanna hear you say (Never wanna hear you say, yeah)
I want it that way
Outro: AJ
‘Cause I want it that way
Live Performances of I Want It That Way
1. Live on the Honda Stage at iHeartRadio Theater LA (13 Oct 2016)
2. I Want It That Way Live from O2 Arena (21 Sep 2018)
3. I Want It That Way Live from Shout Factory (13 Feb 2016)
4. I Want It That Way live from MDA Telethon (1 Apr 2017)
Similar Songs Like I Want It That Way
The Backstreet Boys have created many beautiful love songs that connect with fans, such as “I Want It That Way“:
- “Everybody (Backstreet’s Back)”: An upbeat dance anthem with a fun bass line that gets everyone on their feet.
- “Shape of My Heart”: A gentle and honest love song where the singers express regret and ask for forgiveness.
- “Quit Playing Games With My Heart”: An upbeat track about the confusion and pain of uncertain romance and mixed signals.
- “As Long As You Love Me”: A sweet declaration of unconditional love that showcases their smooth vocal blend and sincere delivery.
- “Drowning”: A powerful song about being overwhelmed by love, with strong vocal performances and moving lyrics.
- “Incomplete”: A touching ballad about feeling lost without someone special, featuring rich harmonies and raw emotion.
- “More Than That”: A smooth R&B-influenced song about proving your love is stronger than any other person’s.
- “All I Have to Give”: A romantic promise of dedication and loyalty, delivered with their signature harmonious style.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Did the Song Sell Worldwide?
“I Want It That Way” has sold over 30 million copies worldwide. It was the most successful single from their album “Millennium.”
What Have the Artists Said About the Music Video?
The band filmed the music video at Los Angeles Airport. Nick Carter said they loved making it because fans came to watch them shoot.
What Do Japanese Think “I Want It that Way” Mean?
Many Japanese fans thought the song was about making love.
What Band Sings “Tell Me Why”?
The Backstreet Boys sing this line in “I Want It That Way.” It’s part of the main chorus that made the song famous.
