Backstreet Boys took to the stage at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi on Sunday night and it was nothing short of spectacular.
17,000 fans flocked to the UAE capital to catch a glimpse of their favourite boyband in action after tickets sold out in just hours.
The group, consisting of Nick Carter, Brian Littrell, AJ McLean, Howie Dorough and Kevin Richardson took to the stage just after 9pm with an electric introduction opening with “Everyone” before performing “I Wanna Be With You” from their 1996 self-titled debut album – looking and sounding just as good as they did in their heyday.
The concert lasted for just over two hours with the band performing over 30 songs, with all members singing live, putting some of today’s acts to shame. It certainly didn’t feel rushed, as the band sang a mix of their classic iconic hits, such as “I Want It That Way” and “Everybody,” along with new tracks from their latest album, DNA.
Between songs, the band took regular opportunities to thank the crowd for turning out in their thousands and continuing to support them after 30 years in the music business. Fans went crazy when video clips showed the boys back in the early days, many holding banners with personal messages – hoping for the band to take notice, which they did.
Fan favourite Nick Carter expressed his love for Abu Dhabi saying that it’s one of the most beautiful places he has ever visited. He even joked about buying a house here, which got the crowd cheering even louder. Brian Littrell also addressed the audience, saying that this might be their first time performing in Abu Dhabi, but it won’t be the last.
Their performance was everything a concert should be, high energy, fun and a showcase for all of the band’s biggest hits.
A performance of “I Want It That Way” signalled the end of the show, before the boys returned to the stage with an encore including “Don’t Go Breaking My Heart” from DNA and “Larger Than Life”.
Backstreet Boys proved that they are still one of the best boy bands of all time, and it’s no wonder why they continue to have legions of fans all around the world.
A great night of live music, and a concert we won’t forget in a hurry.
DSCVR: Backstreet Boys, Etihad Arena, Yas Island – Abu Dhabi. @backstreetboys @livenationme @etihadarena.ae
