When Baylee Littrell walked in for his 2025 American Idol audition, Carrie Underwood told the young man he looked familiar. Littrell cracked a cheeky grin and told her, “My dad is Brian Littrell from the Backstreet Boys.” In addition to inheriting his father’s looks, Baylee also got a big dose of his musical talent, as he went on to floor the judges with his original song “Waiting On Myself To Die.” The 22-year-old really impressed with his deft touch on the acoustic guitar, as well as his lithe and soulful voice.
As Underwood later noted, it was a risk to bring his own material to the show, but it paid off, as Baylee gave a smoldering and emotional rendition of the tune that had all the judges stoked. The best was yet to come though, as Underwood suggested that perhaps his famous dad could come join him. Baylee and Brian then sang a duet on the same song, and they sounded heavenly together. The Music Man is confident in saying that Baylee’s definitely the next generation of pop talent!
American Idol uploaded Baylee’s audition on March 10, 2025, and in the two weeks since then, it’s blown up to 1.2 million views. Fans loved to see Baylee rock his audition, and added comments such as “Baylee is so humble and not an ounce of arrogance or entitlement. I’d love to see him go all the way!” and “He wrote his own song and sang it. This kid has pure talent. His dad should be proud. Not only of his obvious talent, but his obvious good and humble heart. Good job Mom and Dad, you raised a good kid.”
Baylee and his dad have teamed up for a duet before, as the pair sang the Backstreet Boys’ “I Want It That Way” live at Eddie’s Attic in their hometown of Atlanta, Georgia. Baylee sounds fantastic singing with his dad, and Brian can still hit those honeyed high notes so naturally. The video is a real feel-good watch as it’s really lovely to see the pair’s connection with each other, as well as how much Brian still loves to perform the classic Backstreet Boys hits.
Baylee Thomas Wylee Littrell was born on November 26, 2002, in Atlanta, Georgia. Littrell was homeschooled since he was aged 7, which allowed him to accompany his father on the road. This environment allowed him to gain experience as an actor and singer. The Music Man readers might be interested to hear that Baylee released his debut album 770 Country on November 15, 2019, and followed it up with his EP Vol. One on September 9, 2022.