Backstreet Boy AJ McLean Celebrates Sobriety, Unveils Solo Music Release Dates

In a recent interview, Backstreet Boys member AJ McLean opened up about his upcoming solo music projects. McLean revealed that his solo EP titled "Hi, My Name Is Alex" will be released on Nov 27, which happens to be his oldest daughter's birthday as well as Thanksgiving. Normally, new music is released on Fridays, but McLean decided to go against convention and put it out on a holiday.

"I've gone against conventional rules my whole life, so I figured why not throw a curveball and put it out on Thanksgiving because, in my mind, I'm so thankful and grateful for the fans that have waited so patiently for this," McLean told the interviewer. The full album, "Hi, My Name is Alexander James," will then be released on Jan 9, which is McLean's own birthday.

McLean also spoke about his journey of self-discovery over the past four years, during which time he celebrated four years of sobriety. He shared that a recent mental health retreat helped him realize that "AJ" is a character he plays as part of the Backstreet Boys, and he wants the world to get to know the real "Alex." McLean said he has struggled with low self-esteem his entire life, but he is now proud of who he is and ready to share his authentic self with his fans through his solo music.