Get to Know Brian Littrell’s Son Ahead of His American Idol Debut
Baylee Littrell is taking his American Idol experience very seriously.
Brian Littrell, a member of the Backstreet Boys, has announced that his son will be auditioning for season 23 of the renowned singing competition, set to premiere on ABC on Sunday, March 9.
“He’s actually participating in the new American Idol this season, which is a bit of insider information,” Brian disclosed to Today.com in February. “He texted me last night saying, ‘Dad, how do you handle this? It’s really hard work.’ He’s been working tirelessly, and I couldn’t be prouder. He’s gaining a new understanding of what this entails.”
Though Brian can’t provide specifics about his son’s encounters with judges Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie, Baylee has hinted at his upcoming journey on the ABC reality show.
“Well guys 😁 I recently had the chance to audition for @americanidol 🙏🏼,” he posted on Instagram. “Don’t miss the season premiere and see what unfolds on 3/9/25!”
Read on to discover more about Baylee’s music journey leading up to his American Idol debut:
Baylee Littrell’s Broadway Experience
Before his stint on American Idol, Baylee made his Broadway debut at the tender age of 13. He starred as a featured character in the 2016 production of Disaster!, which also featured Rent alum Adam Pascal.
“I am incredibly proud of my son’s Broadway debut and of the young man he is evolving into! His talent is remarkable, but his work ethic impresses me even more,” Brian stated in an interview with E! News at that time. “Baylee has spent much of his life on tour, which has equipped him well for both stage performance and life off stage.”
Baylee’s Time with the Backstreet Boys
As a child, Baylee toured with the Backstreet Boys and had the opportunity to introduce them before their concerts.
“I got to introduce my dad when I was only 5 years old,” Baylee shared with People in 2023. “By the age of 10, I was performing as their opening act. I would sing a couple of songs before the real opener came on stage. This eventually led to me officially opening for them on a 42-show tour in 2019. It was an unforgettable experience.”
Baylee Doesn’t Want the ‘Nepo Baby’ Label
Even though he has a famous father still performing with the Backstreet Boys, Baylee emphasizes that he is carving his own path through hard work.
“Having a dad who’s a Backstreet Boy certainly opens doors, but it’s just as challenging to establish my own identity because some people are reluctant to give me a chance based on my father’s reputation,” Baylee explained to E! News in September 2022. “I have skills to share. I’ve been working hard for nearly five years and aim to make a difference.”
Baylee’s Collaboration with Florida Georgia Line’s Tyler Hubbard
Before releasing his debut album, 770-Country, in 2019, Baylee had the chance to work with Tyler Hubbard in the studio.
“While recording, Corey [Crowder] paused the track and said, ‘Come in. Tyler’s here.’ My response was, ‘What!?’” Baylee recounted in an interview with Variety in November 2019. “As I opened the studio door, Tyler greeted me, saying, ‘Hey, man. I just wanted to share that me and [Brian Kelley] support you and we’re excited for your album.’ That moment is one of my favorite memories from the recording process.”
Baylee’s View on Success
While some artists may obsess over radio play and accolades, Baylee has expressed a different view on what constitutes success in the music realm.
“Ultimately, it’s not about fame and wealth,” he told E! News. “It’s about connecting with people and the impact your music has on their lives. My goal isn’t to reach any pinnacle; it’s simply for someone to reflect and say, ‘Hey, this guy’s music helped me.’ If I can achieve that, then my mission is accomplished.”
