Toronto, Canada – In a night that fused country grit with boy band nostalgia, chart-topping artist Jelly Roll surprised fans with an unforgettable duet of the Backstreet Boys’ iconic hit “I Want It That Way.” Joining him on stage at Toronto’s History venue was none other than Backstreet Boy AJ McLean, sending the crowd into a frenzy.
A Match Made in Music Heaven
The unlikely duo, whose paths crossed earlier this year at the 2024 BMG Pre-Grammy Party, proved that musical boundaries are meant to be broken. Jelly Roll, known for his genre-bending blend of hip-hop, country, and rock, showcased his vocal prowess and versatility, seamlessly harmonizing with McLean’s signature pop vocals.
AJ McLean and Jelly Roll at a pre-Grammys Party
AJ McLean and Jelly Roll shared a moment at the 2024 BMG Pre-Grammy Party, foreshadowing their future collaboration.
The performance, captured on video by numerous fans, has since gone viral, racking up millions of views across social media platforms. The energy between the two artists was palpable, radiating throughout the venue as they breathed new life into the beloved 90s anthem.
Jelly Roll’s Canadian Love Affair
This Toronto show marked a significant moment for Jelly Roll, who shared his deep appreciation for the city and its music scene. “I can’t tell ya’ll how unreal this was, man,” he confessed to the roaring crowd. Having previously expressed his desire to perform at either History or the iconic Mod Club, Jelly Roll’s Canadian debut was a dream realized.
The setlist was a testament to Jelly Roll’s diverse musical influences, featuring tracks from his critically acclaimed 2023 album Whitsitt Chapel alongside fan favorites spanning his career. The crowd was treated to a mix of high-energy originals and heartfelt covers, including Toby Keith’s “Should’ve Been a Cowboy” and Lynyrd Skynyrd’s “Simple Man.”
A Night of Musical Fusion
Jelly Roll’s collaboration with AJ McLean wasn’t just a performance; it was a celebration of music’s power to transcend genres and generations. The unexpected duet showcased the beauty of artistic collaboration, leaving the audience with a memory they won’t soon forget. As Jelly Roll continues to dominate the charts and break down musical barriers, one thing is certain: this is just the beginning for the genre-defying artist.
