I Want It That Way

Tell me why! Revisit the Backstreet Boys' iconic 1999 mega-hit, "I Want It That Way." This quintessential pop ballad defined an era with its smooth harmonies, heartfelt delivery, and unforgettable chorus. A massive global success, it remains one of the most recognizable love songs from the late 90s.

Released in 1999 at the height of the Backstreet Boys' fame, "I Want It That Way" anchored their blockbuster album Millennium. A masterclass in pop songwriting by Max Martin and Andreas Carlsson, the track features the group's signature multi-part vocal harmonies layered over polished, radio-friendly production. Its structure and instantly memorable melody cemented it as a defining example of late 90s pop balladry.

"I Want It That Way" became a phenomenal global number one hit, propelled by its instantly catchy chorus and iconic airport-themed music video. Despite its famously ambiguous and somewhat contradictory lyrics, the song's emotional delivery resonated massively with audiences worldwide. It remains a pop culture phenomenon, a karaoke staple, and arguably the definitive ballad of the late 90s boy band era.

SONG MEANING: The lyrics of "I Want It That Way" are famously ambiguous and somewhat contradictory, a point even acknowledged by the band and writers. Generally, they seem to address the complexities, misunderstandings, and distance within a troubled romantic relationship ("You are my fire... but we are two worlds apart"). The conflicting lines about wanting things "that way" leave the ultimate meaning open to interpretation but focus clearly on relationship struggles.