In a delightful revelation, country music sensation Maren Morris has shared that her six-year-old son, Hayes Hurd, has developed a profound fondness for the iconic boy band, the Backstreet Boys. Speaking during an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, the 36-year-old singer-songwriter expressed both amusement and pride at her son’s newfound obsession with the group that has long been a cornerstone of pop music.
Morris, who was at the 2026 Music Will Benefit event in New York City when she made the comments, explained that although Hayes perceives the Backstreet Boys as a brand-new phenomenon, their popularity actually dates back to the mid-1990s. “He thinks they’re brand new. But I was like, no, they’ve been around since I was, like, your age,” Morris said, highlighting the generational connection that music often fosters.
The Backstreet Boys, who first shot to fame with their self-titled debut album released in 1996, have remained a part of the cultural zeitgeist with a string of hits including “Quit Playing Games (with My Heart)” and “Everybody (Backstreet’s Back).” This legacy seems to be resonating with the younger generation, as evidenced by Hayes’ enthusiastic engagement with their music.
Morris, who is not only a Grammy winner but also a devoted mother, noted that her son is exploring more than just the music; he is also beginning to learn some of the group’s iconic dance moves. This was corroborated by her close friend and collaborator, Karina Argow, who commented on Hayes’ growing appreciation for the band. “He’s starting to learn about Backstreet Boys, which is a huge deal,” said Argow, who co-authored Morris’ upcoming picture book, “Addie Ant Goes on an Adventure.”
Beyond her son’s musical interests, Morris took the opportunity to discuss her hopes for imparting valuable lessons about music-making. She emphasised the importance of hard work in the music industry and the interplay of different personalities, stating, “That it’s hard work, it’s fun, but it’s a lot of egos.” These insights are part of the nurturing approach she seeks to provide to Hayes as he grows up.
Reflecting on their time together, Morris acknowledged that Hayes enjoys accompanying her on tour, describing him as “very sweet” and enthusiastic about the experience. The duo shares a special bond, and the joy of experiencing music together adds another dimension to their relationship.
In a heartfelt moment earlier this year, Morris celebrated Hayes’ sixth birthday with a creative Instagram post that garnered attention. In her tribute, she referenced the beloved Harry Potter franchise, revealing that Hayes has been sorted into Ravenclaw, based on his thoughtful answers to a sorting quiz. “He got sorted into Ravenclaw because the quiz asked, ‘do you want people to praise you, trust you, fear you or mimic you?’ His answer was, ‘I want them to trust me,’” she shared, encapsulating the wisdom beyond his years.
Morris’ journey as a mother and musician takes on an added layer of complexity as she navigates her role as a parent alongside her ex-husband, Ryan Hurd. Together, they are dedicated to providing Hayes with a nurturing environment, filled with creativity and love.
As the Backstreet Boys continue to captivate fans across generations, it appears that their music is more than just a nostalgic trip for Morris; it’s a bridge connecting her to her son, enriching their shared experiences. With Hayes now part of the Backstreet movement, it is clear that the sounds of the past are alive and well in the hearts of the young, echoing Morris’s sentiments about the enduring power of music.