The Backstreet Boys are suing their record company for $75million – they accuse Zomba label Jive (currently merging with BMG) of breach of contract, intentional interference with contract, trademark infringement and unfair competition. They want a cash pay out and to be released from their 1994 recording contract.
It seems the cause of the action is an agreement in November 1999 when the band committed to making two more albums for the label in return for a sizable advance. As part of the deal they were promised $5 million if they completed both albums before 30 Apr 2002. They missed the deadline, and the pay out, but the band claim that was down to delaying tactics on the part of the label. They say they received no support in terms of song or producer selection, and that the group's artistic suggestions were refused.
They claim one of the problems was that Jive was more concerned in releasing Nick Carter’s solo album than working with the group as a whole – something which meant Carter was "unable and unwilling" to participate in recording a new Backstreet Boys' album. Whether Carter himself resents his label concentrating on his solo projects is unclear – presumably his solo recordings will net him considerably more than his share of the $5 million.
In a statement the group said: "We are committed to the Backstreet Boys and we will protect our group from anybody or anything that tries to break us apart. We are disappointed that our longtime label Jive Records has attempted to irresponsibly exploit our group".