AJ McLean Throws in Ideas For Who Should Have a Residency at the Sphere | iHeartRadio Music Awards

Why It Matters

McLean’s push for more immersive residencies illustrates how legacy pop acts are redefining live‑music economics, prompting venues and artists to prioritize experiential, high‑tech shows that drive fan loyalty and premium ticket sales.

Key Takeaways

• AJ McLean releases new single “Flowers” featuring Tysteine.
• Solo album “Alexander James” reflects personal artistic identity shift.
• Backstreet Boys’ Sphere residency expands, praised as world’s top venue.
• Fans and celebrities create a “white‑wear” cult at Sphere shows.
• McLean suggests artists like Miley Cyrus, Spice Girls for future residencies.

Summary

AJ McLean appeared at the iHeartRadio Music Awards to promote his latest solo efforts, unveiling the new single “Flowers” featuring Tysteine and discussing his freshly released solo album, Alexander James, which he says captures his true artistic identity beyond the Backstreet Boys brand.

He highlighted the explosive response to the Backstreet Boys’ residency at the Las Vegas Sphere, noting that nine shows have already sold out with plans to reach 59, and praised the venue as possibly the world’s best live‑music space. McLean also described the fan‑driven “white‑wear” cult that has emerged, turning concertgoers into a recognizable community that even draws celebrities like Nick Jonas and members of the New Girl cast.

Memorable moments included McLean’s anecdote about learning the phrase “give you your flowers,” his invitation to Miley Cyrus and the Spice Girls for future residencies, and his playful wish for Taylor Swift and BTS to appear, underscoring the venue’s appeal to top‑tier pop acts.

The conversation signals a broader shift: legacy pop groups are leveraging immersive, high‑tech venues to rejuvenate their brand, create exclusive fan experiences, and open new revenue streams, while also setting a template for other artists to secure similar residencies in premium locations.

Original Description

At the iHeartRadio Music Awards, AJ McLean dishes on his new single coming out while chatting with THR on the red carpet and talks about releasing a solo album and introducing everyone to Alexander James. Plus, he talks performing at the Las Vegas Sphere and shares which artists he would love to see perform a residency next.

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AJ McLean Throws in Ideas For Who Should Have a Residency at the Sphere | iHeartRadio Music Awards

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