The Backstreet Boys' Into the Millennium Tour was a landmark event in the world of pop music. Supporting their third studio album, Millennium, the tour spanned from 1999 to 2000 and became one of the fastest-grossing tours of all time. With 123 concerts across 84 cities, the tour not only showcased the group's musical prowess but also set new standards for live performances and stage production.
The Tour's Beginnings and Structure
The Into the Millennium Tour kicked off on June 2, 1999,
with a European leg that included over 40 concerts in more than 30 cities. The tour's North American legs featured concerts at arenas and stadiums, with tickets selling out rapidly. The first leg of the North American tour alone grossed an estimated $30 million, with 765,000 tickets sold.
The tour was officially titled "Sears Presents Backstreet Boys Into The Millennium Tour," with sponsorship from Sears and Polaroid. The second North American leg ran from February to March 2000, with the concert at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta becoming the fifth most attended concert in American history.
Innovative Stage Production
The tour's stage production was a spectacle in itself, featuring a pentagonal stage with a 360-degree in-the-round design. The stage included a central platform that could be lowered and raised, allowing the band to make dramatic entrances and exits. The group was backed by a six-member instrumental band and ten backup dancers, adding to the dynamic performance.
The Backstreet Boys used several costume changes throughout the show, starting with futuristic space costumes and transitioning to leather outfits and suits. The concert featured elaborate choreography, pyrotechnics, and a mix of their greatest hits, including "Larger than Life," "Everybody (Backstreet's Back)," and "I Want It That Way."
Legacy and Impact
The Into the Millennium Tour was not only a commercial success but also a cultural phenomenon. It won the Pollstar Concert Industry Award for Most Creative Stage Production, highlighting the innovative approach to live performances. The tour's success further cemented the Backstreet Boys' status as pop icons and set a high bar for future tours by other artists.
The tour's impact is still felt today, as it remains a benchmark for large-scale pop concerts. The Backstreet Boys' ability to connect with audiences through their music and live performances has ensured their enduring popularity. The Into the Millennium Tour stands as a testament to the group's influence on the music industry and their ability to captivate fans around the world.
