Backstreet Boy AJ McLean’s Daughter Publicly Hates “I Want It That Way”: A Generational Divide?
Table of Contents
By World-Today-News.com Expert Journalist
Published: March 20, 2025
The Backstreet Boys, a quintessential boy band of the ’90s, continue to resonate with millions globally, but one of thier biggest hits faces a tough critic within the family. “I want It That Way,” an anthem for a generation, is apparently not a favourite in the McLean household.[[1]]
AJ McLean revealed at the 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards that his 12-year-old daughter, Elliott, harbors a strong dislike for the iconic track. The reason? A relatable plight of many celebrity kids: schoolyard teasing.
“my oldest daughter hates that song, hates it with a passion,” McLean confessed to People
this week, adding, “Because she gets teased at school when she walks into school.” [[1]]
It truly seems Elliott’s classmates have adopted the habit of serenading her with the song’s famous opening line,”Tell me why,” much to her chagrin. This playful, yet persistent, teasing highlights the unique challenges faced by children of famous parents, navigating their own identities amidst their parents’ public personas.
The Dad Factor: Embarrassment as a Form of Endearment
Adding a humorous layer to the situation, McLean admits to joining in on the teasing, a classic dad move.“When I drop her off,the boys (sing),‘tell me why,’ and she’s like,‘Stop doing that,’” he shared. “And then I start doing it to embarrass her because that’s what dads do.” [[1]]
This playful dynamic underscores the close bond between McLean and his daughter. While Elliott may outwardly express annoyance, such interactions often serve as a form of connection and affection, a way for parents to stay involved in their children’s lives, even if it means a little lighthearted embarrassment.
Elliott’s identity: A Name Change and Embracing Individuality
This isn’t the first time Elliott’s individuality has been a topic of discussion. In 2022, McLean publicly supported his daughter’s decision to change her name from Ava to Elliott. This decision, driven by a desire to stand out from other Avas at her school, reflects a strong sense of self and a willingness to forge her own path.
“There are a few girls named Ava at her school and she felt like she wanted a name that was unique to her,” McLean told TODAY Parents in 2022. He also noted he was “a little taken aback” initially but ultimately supported her choice, stating, “I was like, ‘Well, this is new,’” the singer said. “But I support my kids in whatever they want to do. So now Elliott is Elliott.”
McLean’s acceptance of Elliott’s decision highlights a broader trend among parents to embrace their children’s individuality and support their self-expression, even when it deviates from customary norms.
Backstreet’s Back, Alright! Millennium 2.0 and Vegas Residency
despite Elliott’s aversion to ”I Want It That Way,” the Backstreet Boys show no signs of slowing down. This summer, they’re set to take Las vegas by storm with their “Into the Millennium” Sphere residency. [[1]]
Adding to the excitement, the band is releasing “Millennium 2.0” on july 11th, a deluxe version of their iconic “Millennium” album. This re-release will feature 25 songs, including 12 remastered tracks, live recordings, demos, and an alternate version of “I Want It That Way.” [[1]]
“The fact that we get to redo this album again live, it’s kind of reinvigorating, this excitement about what it was back in ‘99,” McLean told People
. This nostalgia-fueled project is sure to delight longtime fans and introduce the Backstreet Boys’ music to a new generation.
The McLean family has seen its share of changes in recent years. In 2024, AJ McLean and his estranged wife, Rochelle McLean, announced their official breakup after a separation of over a year. They also have another daughter, Lyric, who is eight years old. Despite these personal challenges, McLean remains committed to his children and their well-being.
Backstreet Boys: More Than Just Music
The Backstreet Boys’ journey extends beyond their musical achievements. AJ McLean’s personal struggles, including battles with addiction, have been well-documented. He has been open about how these challenges impacted the band. [[3]]
McLean’s willingness to share his experiences has made him a relatable figure for many fans who have faced similar struggles. His story serves as a reminder that even those who appear to have it all can face personal challenges and that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Generational Divide or Timeless Tune?
While Elliott McLean may not be a fan of “I Want It That Way,” the song’s enduring popularity speaks to its timeless appeal. The track remains a staple on radio stations and streaming playlists, continuing to captivate audiences of all ages. Whether it’s a generational divide or simply a matter of personal taste, one thing is clear: the Backstreet Boys’ music continues to spark conversation and evoke strong emotions.
Backstreet Boys’ “I Want It That Way”: How a Hit Song Creates a Generational Divide (Even in the Family!)
Senior Editor, World-Today-News.com: Welcome, Dr. Anya Sharma, to World-Today-News.com. It’s engaging that even a timeless hit like “I Want it That Way” can face criticism, especially within the family of a Backstreet Boy. How does a song, so beloved by many, become a source of teasing for AJ McLean’s daughter, Elliott?
Dr. Anya Sharma, Sociocultural Analyst: Thank you for having me. The situation with Elliott McLean highlights a unique interplay between public perception, personal identity, and the unavoidable generational shifts in taste [[1]].”I Want It That Way” is a cultural touchstone,instantly recognizable and linked to a specific era,the late ’90s [[1]]. For Elliott, being serenaded with its opening line creates a very public display of her father’s accomplishments. This isn’t necessarily a reflection of the song’s quality, but rather, the social context it carries.It’s a classic example of teenage angst against anything that links them too closely to their parents.
Senior editor: It’s interesting how this situation reveals the strong bond between AJ and Elliott. He himself participates in the teasing. Can you explain how this dynamic, which might seem counterintuitive, actually strengthens their relationship?
dr. Sharma: This behavior, which some may view as ’embarrassing’ or ‘teasing’, is surprisingly the opposite. The fact that AJ McLean joins in the teasing illustrates an vital element in their relationship: shared experiences. As children grow, parents constantly seek ways to connect.By playfully adopting the role of the tormentor, AJ is showing his daughter he understands the teasing she faces and is comfortable enough in their relationship to engage in playful banter [[1]]. It’s a way of saying, “I get it,” and “I am here with you,” even thru a moment of public embarrassment. these small moments of shared laughter, of lighthearted teasing, build trust and understanding. It’s a way of demonstrating affection and keeping the lines of interaction open.
Elliott’s Identity and the Search for Individuality
Senior Editor: This isn’t the first time Elliott has sought to define her own identity, as evidenced by her name change from Ava to Elliott. How does this relate to her reaction to the song and the teasing she receives?
Dr. Sharma: Elliott’s decision to change her name is very insightful. It’s part of children’s evolution in the process of developing their own identities. In a world where she’s already closely associated with her famous father and his music, choosing a unique name is one way for her to establish a separate identity [[1]]. The teasing she endures likely amplifies her desire to assert independence. “I Want It That Way” and the associated teasing links her to a pre-established narrative; she may see this as a limitation of her own definition. Therefore,her reaction towards the song can be interpreted as a form of self-expression. It lets her define her space within her family and the wider world.
The enduring Power of “I Want It That Way”
Senior Editor: Despite Elliott’s feelings, the song remains incredibly popular. what is it about “I Want It That Way” that has allowed it to resonate even in another generation?
Dr. Sharma: ”I Want It That Way” is a remarkable example of a song that transcends generations. Its success lies in a combination of factors [[1]]:
Catchy Melody: The song’s melody is incredibly memorable and easy to sing along to,which makes it instantly accessible to listeners of all ages.
Heartfelt Lyrics: Its themes of love, longing, and uncertainty are nearly global.
Nostalgia: For many,the song evokes a feeling of nostalgia for the late 1990s,a period frequently enough associated with optimism and simpler times.
Cultural Significance: The song has become a cultural touchstone, frequently referenced in movies, TV shows, and by other musicians.
These elements combine to create a song, and the song continues to be played at parties and sing alongs
