Backstreet Boys Launch "Into The Millennium" Las Vegas Residency at The Sphere
The Backstreet Boys (BSB), one of the most iconic boy bands in music history, recently launched their highly anticipated Las Vegas residency, titled Into The Millennium. This stellar event took place at The Sphere, a cutting-edge venue known for its unparalleled visual and auditory experiences. The residency marks a historic moment, as the Backstreet Boys are the first pop act, as well as the first boy band, to perform at this groundbreaking location.
An Unprecedented Venue
Located at 255 Sands Avenue, The Sphere seats an impressive 17,600 fans. The venue has quickly gained a reputation for its state-of-the-art technology, playing host to a roster of legendary acts alongside the Backstreet Boys, including Kenny Chesney, U2, and Dead & Company. This marks only the second Vegas residency for the band, following their Larger Than Life residency at the Zappos Theater from 2017 to 2019.
A Dramatic Arrival
When doors opened at 6:30 PM, fans poured into a mesmerizing Backstreet Boys-themed space station. Many attendees donned outfits inspired by the band’s Millennium album, dressed in stunning white and blue. Inside, large screens displayed fun Q&A sessions with the band, reflecting on their storied career and answering lighthearted questions, which set the stage for a night filled with nostalgia.
Around 8:35 PM, anticipation reached a peak as a 10-minute countdown commenced. The excitement crescendoed as the audience saw a massive rocket ship, emblazoned with the Millennium brand, prepare for liftoff. With a dazzling array of lasers, the Backstreet Boys launched onto the stage dressed to impress in all-white ensembles.
High-Energy Kickoff
The show kicked off with a rousing performance of “Larger Than Life,” a fitting opener for an event that celebrated the band’s enduring legacy. Brian Littrell welcomed the sold-out crowd, expressing gratitude for their unwavering support, while Howie Dorough urged fans to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Millennium album, assuring everyone that they still looked great after years in the industry.
A Journey Through Time
The show featured a 25-song setlist, taking the audience on a musical journey filled with both timeless classics and newer hits. Each member of the band showcased their vocal prowess, delivering memorable performances of fan favorites such as “Quit Playing Games (With My Heart),” “Everybody (Backstreet’s Back),” and the newly debuted “HEY” from their recently released album, Millennium 2.0.
A Unique Experience
What sets this residency apart is its impressive stage design and innovative use of technology. The Sphere features 167,000 precision-tuned speakers that create an immersive auditory experience. The visuals are equally breathtaking, with a 160,000-square-foot wraparound screen that captivates the audience by bringing each song to life in vivid detail.
Transitions between songs were seamless, featuring solo performances and costume changes without any downtime. The notable absence of awkward pauses was a refreshing change, allowing the energy to remain high throughout the entire show.
Notable Highlights
The residency was filled with standout moments, including:
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“I Want It That Way” Performance on a Floating Stage: Ninety feet above the audience, the boys delivered a mind-blowing rendition that was enhanced by the Sphere’s stunning visuals.
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Dancing and Choreography: The band showed off their impressive dance moves, proving that they still have the same charisma and energy that enchanted fans in the ’90s.
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Tributes to Family: The emotional performance of “The Perfect Fan” paid homage to their loved ones, featuring touching visuals that brought tears to many eyes, including their own.
- Epic Conclusion: The show culminated in an exuberant performance of “Everybody (Backstreet’s Back),” with the audience joining in on the lyrics, creating a euphoric atmosphere enhanced by confetti and celebratory lights.
The Setlist
Here’s a glimpse of the setlist performed by the Backstreet Boys during their Into The Millennium residency:
- Larger Than Life
- It’s Gotta Be You
- As Long as You Love Me
- More Than That
- I Need You Tonight
- Siberia
- Don’t Want You Back
- Get Another Boyfriend
- Show Me the Meaning of Being Lonely
- Don’t Wanna Lose You Now
- Hey [Live Debut]
- The One
- Back to Your Heart
- Spanish Eyes
- No One Else Comes Close
- The Perfect Fan
- All I Have to Give
- Drowning
- Quit Playing Games (With My Heart)
- Shape of My Heart
- I Want It That Way
- Get Down (You’re The One for Me)
- We’ve Got It Goin’ On
- The Call
- Everybody (Backstreet’s Back)
Remaining Dates
The residency continues with a total of 18 scheduled dates, wrapping up on August 24. Tickets are currently available through Ticketmaster, providing the opportunity for both longtime fans and newcomers to witness this spectacular event.
As part of their ongoing celebration, the Backstreet Boys have released Millennium 2.0, a deluxe edition that reflects on their 25-year journey. With new music, electrifying performances, and an innovative Las Vegas residency, the Backstreet Boys continue to create lasting memories for fans old and new.