Brian Littrell, now 50 years old, is best known as one of the beloved voices behind the Backstreet Boys — but his success goes far beyond boy band fame. As of 2025, Brian Littrell’s net worth is estimated at $45 million. With a music career spanning three decades, a successful solo project in Christian music, and a string of tours, awards, and business ventures under his belt, Littrell has carved out a unique space in pop culture and beyond.
How Did Brian Littrell Join the Backstreet Boys?
Brian’s music journey took a surprising turn in high school when his cousin, Kevin Richardson, pulled him out of class to fly to Orlando for a vocal group audition. That “vocal group” turned out to be none other than the Backstreet Boys — and Brian’s life changed overnight.
Born and raised in Lexington, Kentucky, Littrell had originally dreamed of becoming a music minister or even a basketball player, but his short height steered him toward his true gift — singing. He was soon lending his distinctive tenor to some of the biggest pop hits of the ‘90s.
How Did Brian Littrell Make His Millions?
As a founding member of the Backstreet Boys, Littrell helped lead the group to over 130 million records sold worldwide. That success included chart-topping albums like Millennium, Black & Blue, and global anthems like “I Want It That Way” and “Everybody (Backstreet’s Back).”
Backstreet Boys became one of the best-selling boy bands in history, and Littrell’s vocal leadership, songwriting contributions, and relentless touring helped build his fortune. He also launched a solo career in Christian music, releasing Welcome Home in 2006, which sold over 100,000 copies and earned him a Dove Award nomination.
In addition to record sales, Littrell has continued to earn from:
- Las Vegas residencies
- World tours
- Merchandise and licensing
- Songwriting and music production
Did Brian Littrell Ever Sue His Manager?
Yes — and it was a major turning point for the group. Alongside his bandmates, Brian spearheaded a lawsuit against infamous manager Lou Pearlman, who had been hiding the group’s actual earnings. The legal action revealed just how much of their profits had been kept from them.
The lawsuit not only helped the band reclaim lost income but also empowered other artists to speak out against exploitative contracts in the music industry.
What Happened to Brian Littrell’s Health?
Brian Littrell has faced significant health battles since childhood. Born with a congenital heart defect, he was diagnosed with a heart murmur at six weeks old. At age five, he nearly died from a bacterial infection, and in 1998, he underwent open-heart surgery to repair the issue.
Even as an adult, Littrell’s health challenges continued. He was hospitalized with swine flu in 2009, forcing the Backstreet Boys to cancel part of their tour. Then, in 2011, Brian revealed he was suffering from dysphonia and dystonia, two vocal cord disorders that made singing painful and difficult.
Despite these obstacles, Littrell has continued performing and is known to work with vocal therapists to manage his condition. He also founded a non-profit for children with heart conditions, using his platform to give back.
Has Brian Littrell Released Any Solo Music?
Yes — and it was a meaningful shift in his career. In 2006, Brian released his debut Christian pop album, Welcome Home. The record was a hit in the Christian music community, charted well, and showcased a different, more personal side of him.
Though it didn’t match the global success of his work with BSB, Welcome Home allowed Littrell to express his faith and reach a new audience. He also writes and produces for other artists and for Backstreet Boys projects, continuing his impact behind the scenes.
What’s Brian Littrell’s Personal Life Like?
Brian married Leighanne Wallace, whom he met on the set of a Backstreet Boys music video in the late ’90s. They tied the knot in 2000 and welcomed their son, Baylee, in 2002. Baylee has followed in his dad’s footsteps with appearances on Broadway and the release of his own music.
The Littrells have been married for over two decades — a rarity in the entertainment world — and have largely kept their family life out of the spotlight.
Where Does Brian Littrell Live?
Brian and his family have lived in Georgia for more than 20 years, but their time there hasn’t been without a little controversy. In 2019, locals in North Fulton County complained about the noise and activity around a home Brian was renting — from loud parties to even a helicopter landing pad for VIP guests.
Despite the complaints, the Littrells insisted they were committed to preserving the area’s quiet charm and rich history.
In the past, Brian also owned a bungalow in West Hollywood, which he bought in 2002 for $725,000 and sold in 2013 for $1.14 million — a tidy profit, even if it wasn’t the most glamorous celebrity home.
What’s Next for Brian Littrell?
Littrell is still active with the Backstreet Boys, who remain one of the few ‘90s groups to maintain commercial success and fan loyalty. Whether it’s touring, recording, or working on his own faith-based music projects, Brian shows no signs of slowing down.
He continues to balance pop superstardom with spiritual conviction, health advocacy, and family life — all while staying grounded in his Kentucky roots.
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