BACKSTREET Boys’ Howie D tells me that the band hope to make a return to Northern Ireland very soon.
“I can’t wait to get back there, I really can’t, and all of us feel the same about playing in your part of the world," enthuses Howie. “The last time we came close was a series of shows with New Kids on the Block a few years back but in the very near future we would definitely like to play in Belfast again.”
Meanwhile the band have a very busy year ahead, with a new album in the works and a Las Vegas residency show entitled Larger Than Life commencing in March.
“We’re so excited about the Vegas residency. So many artists do it now, Celine Dion, Elton John, Jennifer Lopez, Rod Stewart and Britney Spears. In fact we kind of take over from Britney as her run ends at the Axis theatre, Planet Hollywood and that’s where we’ll be playing. Everyone knows that Las Vegas is a party city and we expect a fun crowd to come and see us – I’m sure there will be a lot bachelorette parties turning up to sing along and have a good time."
I put it to Howie that working in Las Vegas can sometimes be a bit like being on a diet in a cake shop. The temptation to let loose can overwhelm the need to remain focussed.
“For sure. I mean we’ll have to keep disciplined and keep our minds on the job as there is just so much fun going on – too much food, too much drink everywhere you turn but we’ll be OK. When I was in my early 20s I could really go for it in Las Vegas but nowadays I think a few days partying is enough and then I need to see proper daylight again.
"Don’t get me wrong there may be a few late nights along the way. We’re bringing our families so we’ll all be able to spend time together in some of those amazing Vegas restaurants. I can use the shows at night as cardio exercise to balance things up.”
It must be a pleasant change for a band to take on a residency and the obvious convenience it brings. A bit like being on tour without moving. Howie admits that has its attractions.
“That is one of the things we are really looking forward to. We can play shows every night and not have to hop on an early flight the next morning and travel for hours on end.”
However, once Vegas is wrapped then Howie points out that the band will make 2017 one of their busiest years yet.
“We’re excited about making the new record and getting some new music out there and then start looking at getting a tour schedule together. So from being parked in Vegas we’ll get back out there on the road again and see our fans again in their own cities. Meantime they are welcome to get out here for a party weekend and enjoy our Las Vegas experience with us.”
