In 2006, the Backstreet Boys became a quartet.
On June 24, 2006 a news update was made on the Backstreet Boys official website. Kevin Richardson was leaving the group after 13 years. This was not a surprise to some fans as it was rumored for quite some time that he’d leave. For many others, it was. A statement from Kevin was published on the official website.
“After 13 years of what can only be described as a dream come true, I have decided that it is time to leave the Backstreet Boys. It was a very tough decision for me but one that was necessary in order to move on with the next chapter of my life. Howard, Brian, Alex and Nick will always be my little brothers and have my utmost love and support. I would like to thank the Backstreet fans for all the beautiful memories we have shared together and look forward to including you in the next phase of my life. I wish my brothers continued success and look forward to their new album.”
Kevin
The Boys’ themselves made a statement letting fans know that they had no intentions of replacing Kevin and would continue making music. They were to begin recording a new album soon after. Their statement can be read via the Wayback Machine on Archive.org, which archives websites over the years.
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