erilyn | Backstreet news

It's official - Kevin has left the Backstreet Boys, but BSB are still going back into the studio shortly as a foursome.

I'm sorry (*waves at JM*) for just making a cryptic post earlier and running, but I was just about out the door to go shopping with mum when I got a text from Leena (a NZ fan), and I checked LD and saw the myspace post, which has since also been posted at the fanclub and official site.

I think mostly I'm feeling numb. I first heard the news (rumours, at that stage, that I didn't take too seriously) last Wednesday, during my exams. It came from fans who'd talked to Brian, and he let it slip. Since then, Brian has made references on stage to all five guys going back into the studio, and Howie danced around the issue on radio, and there were some contradictory stories flying about, but more and more people were chiming in with gossip about Kevin leaving. It's been an aggravating ten days, and my bitching about hating people has been squarely aimed at certain posters at LiveDaily. I didn't want to post anything here while it was still gossip though. I was really hoping it was going to turn out to be false.

I can't help remembering how I felt at the Melbourne concert, which was the last on the Never Gone tour. There'd been talk about solo projects being the focus next, and I was wondering if we were seeing their last concert together. NG was such an unexpected gift, them reuniting to record, the promo, the tours - and getting to see them myself. I didn't want to expect more than we'd already gotten.

I really do wish him all the best for the future, with whatever he wants to do, but I'm sure as hell gonna miss him in the group. It ain't gonna be the same without him.

Statement to our fans from the Backstreet Boys regarding Kevin Richardson departure from the group:

Earlier this year, after much soul searching, Kevin Richardson came to us and told us that he had decided to leave the group and pursue other interests. He gave his blessing to continue the music without him.

We have no intention of replacing Kevin, and the door will always be open for him to return to the Backstreet Boys. We wish him the all the best in his future endeavors.

This weekend we are returning to the studio to begin the follow-up to Never Gone, and will see you later this year with a new album.

Nick Carter, Howie Dorough, Brian Littrell and AJ McLean

Statement from Kevin Richardson
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