By Chris & Sandy Benton
On May 26, 2021, we had the privilege of sitting down with one of pop music’s most beloved voices—Brian Littrell of the Backstreet Boys—alongside his wife, Leighanne, and their son, rising country artist Bailey Littrell. What unfolded wasn’t just a nostalgic conversation about music and fame; it was a masterclass on faith, family, and resilience in an industry known for its pressures and pitfalls. Full interview below.
Faith as a Compass
From the very beginning of the conversation, Brian made it clear that faith is the foundation of their lives. “Faith has always been like a compass to direct our path,” Brian shared. In an industry that can often pull people away from their values, Brian and Leighanne have stayed grounded. Their story is a reminder that success without a spiritual anchor can be fleeting, but when your faith drives your decisions, you find purpose and balance even in the chaos.
Lesson: In life and career, let your core values and beliefs guide you through uncertainty.
The Power of Saying ‘Yes’
Brian’s journey into the Backstreet Boys didn’t start with a long-term plan. It began with a phone call from his cousin Kevin Richardson while Brian was sitting in his high school history class. When asked to fly to Florida and audition for the last spot in the group, Brian said, “Why not?” That single step of faith launched him into global stardom.
Lesson: Sometimes, life’s biggest opportunities come unexpectedly. Saying “yes” can change your future in ways you never imagined.
Building Love Amid the Spotlight
Leighanne shared how their love story began on the set of the “As Long As You Love Me” music video. Despite being part of one of the world’s biggest boy bands, Brian was determined to build a relationship grounded in authenticity. Over the years, they’ve weathered fame, intense touring schedules, and even Brian’s open-heart surgery, but staying committed to each other and to God kept their marriage strong.
“We treated phone calls as our dates when we couldn’t be together,” Leighanne shared, highlighting the intentionality they maintained through the whirlwind of their careers.
Lesson: Strong relationships require intentionality, communication, and a shared foundation of values.
Sacrifice Behind the Spotlight
What most fans don’t see is the sacrifice behind the success. Brian spoke candidly about the early grind: singing at malls, pet stores, and even on airplanes just to pay rent and get noticed. Leighanne opened up about facing hostility from fans who didn’t want their idols to be taken off the market. And Bailey, growing up on the road, shared the challenge of feeling “different” from other kids but also the gratitude for the unique experiences he’s had.
Lesson: Behind every glamorous success story is a journey filled with sacrifices, challenges, and unseen hard work.
Forging Your Own Path
Bailey, who is now stepping into his own music career as a country artist, faces the delicate balance of honoring his father’s legacy while carving out his own. “I do this because I love it,” Bailey told us. Despite growing up under the shadow of a global superstar, Bailey is determined to write his own story, fueled by passion and hard work.
Lesson: Your last name or background may open doors, but your personal drive and authenticity are what truly define your path.
Family Over Fame
One of the most touching moments of the interview was when Brian said, “Being represented by these two here is the most important thing.” Amid sold-out arenas and global recognition, the Littrell family prioritizes each other above all else. Fame may be fleeting, but faith and family are forever.
Final Takeaway
If there’s one overarching takeaway from our time with the Littrells, it’s this: Stay rooted. Whether you’re chasing a dream, navigating fame, or simply working toward your goals, never lose sight of who you are, who you love, and why you started.
This interview wasn’t just about the Backstreet Boys or chart-topping songs; it was about humanity, humility, and hope. And if Brian, Leighanne, and Bailey have shown us anything, it’s that faith, family, and perseverance can carry you through the wildest journeys life has to offer.
