Young Fans Unaware of *NSYNC’s Group Origins, Joey Fatone Reveals
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/NSYNC-Chateau-Marmont-042225-tout-da0a9a8f1074499fb4954eb7e0d5ad5c.jpg)
In a recent exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Joey Fatone sheds light on a surprising trend among younger fans who are unfamiliar with the iconic pop boy band *NSYNC. The group, which rose to fame in the 2000s and hailed from Orlando, consisted of Joey Fatone, Lance Bass, Chris Kirkpatrick, JC Chasez, and Justin Timberlake. Despite their past success, Fatone expresses his amazement at encountering kids who do not recognise the band’s collective history.
Fatone highlights how the group received an unexpected resurgence among younger audiences following the use of their hit song “Bye Bye Bye” in the 2024 Deadpool & Wolverine movie’s opening scene. This exposure sparked renewed interest in *NSYNC, with younger fans delving into the band’s discography and achievements. The singer reflects on the common misconception among fans who associate Justin Timberlake solely as a solo artist, overlooking the collaborative efforts of the entire group.
The 48-year-old musician shares anecdotes of parents introducing their children to *NSYNC’s music, leading to newfound obsessions with the band’s timeless tracks. Fatone acknowledges the enduring appeal of the group’s music, remarking on how it continues to resonate with a new generation of listeners. He emphasises the joy of witnessing younger fans connect with *NSYNC’s music and delve into the band’s past catalog.
In addition to the movie’s impact, *NSYNC’s music experienced a notable resurgence on TikTok, where “Bye Bye Bye” emerged as one of the platform’s prominent dance trends. Fatone recalls his astonishment upon stumbling upon countless TikTok users grooving to the iconic song, likening the experience to a rejuvenation of *NSYNC’s musical legacy. The singer expresses gratitude for the enthusiastic response from fans on social media platforms.
The band’s influence extends beyond digital trends, as evidenced by special collaborations such as the annual “It’s Gonna Be May” celebration with Great Wolf Lodge. Fatone, alongside Lance Bass, has embraced the meme-inspired festivities, engaging fans in a nostalgic trip down memory lane. Through creative ventures and partnerships, the members of *NSYNC continue to celebrate their musical journey and connect with audiences of all ages.
Looking back on *NSYNC’s enduring fame, Fatone acknowledges the surreal nature of revisiting their classic hits, such as “Bye Bye Bye,” which have become anthems for multiple generations. The singer emphasises the band’s willingness to engage with fans and embrace their musical legacy, even as they revisit familiar performances. As *NSYNC’s music enjoys a resurgence, Fatone remains grateful for the unwavering support of fans old and new.
As *NSYNC’s timeless hits capture the hearts of a new audience, Joey Fatone and his bandmates continue to celebrate their musical journey and legacy with enthusiasm and gratitude. Through a blend of nostalgia and reinvention, the group’s music stands the test of time, offering a sense of joy and unity to fans across generations.