In the year 2025, Brian Littrell of the Backstreet Boys isn't the sole musician embarking on a fresh musical endeavor. The 49-year-old doting father revealed to Today that his 22-year-old son, Baylee Littrell, is poised to launch his own journey in the entertainment industry during the upcoming season of American Idol. While Baylee has been no stranger to life on the road, accompanying his father on tours, Littrell imparted to the outlet that his son is acquiring a fresh perspective on the industry's demands. "Last night, he texted me, saying, 'Dad, man, how do you do this? It's tough work,'" Littrell recounted. "He's been putting in the grind, and I couldn't be more proud. He's getting a real-world understanding of what this is all about."
For Baylee, music has always been at the helm of his existence. In an April 2023 exclusive interview with PEOPLE, the budding country singer opened his heart about his upbringing on the road and the impact his father had on his musical aspirations. "I've virtually grown up on the road since I can remember. My first home was a bunk on a tour bus," Baylee shared with PEOPLE. "So, my earliest memories are of being on tour and overseas."
Baylee, who Littrell shares with actress wife Leighanne Littrell, reminisced about his "extraordinary yet incredible" experiences while touring with the boyband. "At 5 years old, I got to introduce my dad. By 10, I was opening for them, singing two or three songs before the opener took the stage. Then, in 2019, I went on a 42-show run with them as the official opening act. That was an unforgettable experience," he recounted.
Performing and being on tour was a surreal experience for Baylee. From a tender age, he knew he wanted to pursue music, dreaming of becoming the "sixth Backstreet Boy" while hanging out backstage. Although he didn't join his father's group, Baylee vividly remembers his dad assuring him that he would one day have a successful career of his own. "I must have been 6 or 7 at the time. I'd sneak into the wardrobe closet and put on their outfits before shows. I remember standing in front of a mirror in my dad's performance attire, asking, 'Can I be part of the group?' He placed his hands on my shoulders and said, 'One day. One day you'll get your chance,'" Baylee reminisced.
"He's had a monumental influence on my music," Baylee added about his father. "So has my mom; she's a talented songwriter herself. I always have their perspectives to consider. They're always there for me when I seek advice, but they let me pave my own path, which I deeply appreciate."
