Brian Littrell, arguably the cleanest-cut member of megaselling ’90s boy band, has signed a recording contract with Tennessee-based Christian music label Reunion Records.
While a couple of his bandmates have made news for their sinful ways, Littrell aims to get back in touch with his gospel roots (Littrel and cousin/Backstreet Boy mate Kevin Richardson began singing in local church choirs when they really were boys in Kentucky).
Littrell will become the second Backstreeter to venture out on the solo tip-Carter famously tried and failed to capture the attention of pop fans with his ill-received 2002 effort, Now or Never.
Littrell’s Christian album is expected out in fall 2005.
News of Littrell’s signing doesn’t necessarily spell the end of his band; the all-grown-up Backstreet is preparing to release its first new record in almost five years.
While there remains no firm street date for the Boys’ long-awaited follow-up to 2000’s Back & Blue, chances look good for a spring 2005 drop.
Pop producer Max Martin, the man largely responsible for the Backstreet Boys’ “Larger Than Life” sound, reportedly produced the as-yet untitled disc.
In addition to the new studio set, Variety reported in August the group, via its management company, is shopping a realty show entitled Bodyguard to networks in conjunction with an impending comeback tour. The show, which features wannabe band bodyguards, has not yet been picked up.
