The Backstreet Boys’ ‘I Want It That Way’ was part of the soundtrack of many ‘90s kids’ childhoods. When the boy band teamed up with Jimmy Fallon and The Roots in 2018, they decided to take us all back to simpler days with a unique rendition of their song. All gathered together in classic all-white Backstreet Boys-inspired outfits, Jimmy, the Backstreet Boys, and The Roots armed themselves with simple classroom instruments for a performance that will take Music Man fans back in time.
Amongst the instruments played in the video were the xylophone, tambourine, and melodica, making for a rendition like nothing we’ve heard before. While the talent of the groups still shines through, the unique approach to the performance means that the focus lies more on the group having fun than giving a perfect performance. Their playful approach made the performance even more charming, prompting one fan to comment, “There is definitely an art to not taking yourself too seriously.”
I certainly think it’s refreshing to see a group like the Backstreet Boys not take themselves seriously, especially with a song as massive as ‘I Want It That Way’. I remember a time when the song had almost become a meme in itself, with parodies and jokes surrounding it throughout the 2000s. I felt it was nice to see the group reclaiming the song and joining in on the fun rather than being the target of it. I must admit, even on classroom instruments, I think the song is still pretty catchy.
The Backstreet Boys weren’t the only band to take on one of their classic hits with classroom instruments – with some of Jimmy’s guests having been more surprising than others. One that Music Mans would have never expected is Metallica’s rendition of ‘Enter Sandman.’ It is hilarious to hear the metal hit transformed into something from a children’s music lesson. Honestly, the best part of the video is how everyone still rocks out, even when the song is played on the kazoo.
With musicians having to push the boat out in order to impress these days, it’s a true pleasure to see bands enter a space where they can really let loose and have fun. Despite how impressive it is to see technical musical talent on display, these classroom instrument sessions are a huge reminder for us all that music really is all about connection, creativity, and enjoyment. Plus, who said you need to be a virtuoso with top-tier gear to be part of a band? If a Fisher-Price drum is good enough for Lars Ulrich, then it can be good enough for the rest of us, too.