Community Blend Issue 4

8/7/2019 Community Blend Issue 4

1/13

BSBFCP turns

3 Featuring aSpecial Interviewwith theBSBinSingapore

This Is Us& Have It A

The Pin-Ups

COMMUNITY BLENDIssue 4, 2009The Official E-Magazine of Backstreet Boys Fan Club Philippines

BSBFCP Launches

Pinoy Band in Focus:

Featured Fan Site:Aml AJ McLeans Lounge

Featured Fan: Marco Borromeo I BSBFCPs Christmas Celebration I BSB News I Meet Team BSBFCP and much more!

PLUS! An All-New CB Fan Corner!


2/13

Mabuhay BSB Fans!

his is the ourth installment othe Community Blend, the o cialBSBFCP E-magazine, courtesy oyour CB Team and all the active

members and contributors around thePhilippines and the world.

Much has happened rom the time the thirdissue was released the club celebratedits third birthday, a couple o our memberswere able to meet with and talk to theBoys in person in Singapore, and the Boysreleased a new album. And now, BSBFCP iscelebrating its ourth anniversary! My, howtime fies Four years and still growing Ibelieve BSBFCP has become stronger thanever. Who could ever imagine that we willbe able to come this ar?

There are so many people to thank Ocourse, theres Sony Music Philippines,without them, wed still be a bunch o

an girls (and a ew boys) who are merescreaming ans and who long to be noticedby the Backstreet Boys Then, theres103.5 Max FM or continually indulgingus ans with BSB music the BSB Fansand the Members rom all over, o course,

or the loyalty and the unceasing support The rest o the CB Team and the BSBFCPadmins or being always on their toes whenit comes to making and preparing anything

or BSB

Last, but de nitely not the least, theBackstreet Boys or continuing to makegood music, or sticking together and orgiving us the reason to be here We look

orward to seeing you guys real soon

Speaking o which, Im sure everyonesexcited to see the Boys once again Dontworry, itll be February 27 soon Make sureyou get your tickets already Ive heardtheyre selling like pancakes Amazingly,even a riend o mine who didnt come o asa BSB an is watching... She even boughther ticket way be ore I was able to get mine!LOL!

Anyway, we hope you guys will enjoy thisissue. Keep all those articles, messagesand materials coming. We love hearing

rom you. Kudos to everyone and alwaysKeep the Backstreet Pride Alive!

Much love,

H :)

From theEditors Table

Contributors:

Denzil Orejola Myra Blanco Irene Marie Xy-Zha Cabanlong Lorelie Dio

Meet the CB Team

Hazel May BalajadiaEditor-In-Chie

Crislyn BarnuevoEditorial Manager

Arlene SantosEditorial Assistant

Lorry LizaresCreative Director

Carla Cristina FeriaGraphic Designer

COMMUNITY

BLEND

The Official E-Magazine ofBackstreet Boys Fan Club Philippines

BSBFCP turns 3!

BSB News

Feature: An Interview with BSBin Singapore!

Album launch: This Is Us

TIU Album Review

Happy BSBFCP Christmas!

Album launch: Have It All

Meet Team BSBFCP

Feature: Yes, Dreams Do Come True

Featured fan site:Aml AJ Mcleans Lounge

Why Being A BSB Fan Is Cool!

Featured fan: Marco Borromeo

Band in focus: The Pin-Ups

CB Fan Corner

2

3

5

7

9

10

11

12

13

16

17

18

19

20

In this issue

01 COMMUNITY BLEND ISSUE 4,2009

anuary will always be a special day or BSB ans in thePhilippines. It was the month when the Backstreet Boysdid a comeback a ter ten years since they last set oot

in the country. It was also the month when the Backstreet BoysFan Club Philippines (BSBFCP) was ounded in 2006.

The big day was set or January 31st at Congo Grille in Ortigas,Pasig City. Just like the previous events, BSBFCP promised

un and excitement or the 3rd anniversary. No entrance eewas charged, but the attendees were more than willing to coverthe cost o the ood and drinks. Old and new members alikegraced the event with enthusiasm, to meet each other againand rekindle the bond that is the Backstreet Boys. There was ara fe or limited edition BSB stu .

As BSBFCP celebrated its 3rd year bash, the members werein store or an extra special surprise rom the administrators.Backstreet Boys member Howie Dorough, who visited

the country in September 2008 to do a promo with his duetwith Sarah Geronimo, sent out his warm wishes and specialgreetings to the ans in the Philippines or another year o

riendship and passion or the Backstreet Boys music. It was agreat surprise birthday gi t or everyone. You can just see theexcitement and joy in everyones eyes.

Be ore the event ended, everyone joined in the singing o Time,the an clubs theme song. And, o course, a birthday would notbe complete without cake! Everybody partook o the delicioustreat: a special birthday cake with the Backstreet Boys aceson it. Nobody would want to touch it at rst. It was just too

beauti ul to eat, but who could ever resist a yummy Nick Carterchocolate cake, or a delectable AJ Mclean icing? *wink*

The day ended with a smile on each and everyones acesa stronger bond among the members o the an club and arenewed passion or the Boys and their music.

BSBFCP turns 3!

The delicious BSBFCP

Care ul Crislyn!Dont slice a BSB!

COMMUNITY BLEND ISSUE 4,2009


3/13

AJ

side rom admitting that he is a Twilight an duringan interview with MTV recently, AJ revealed the upand coming release o his solo album. Although the

o cial release date is yet to be determined, ans, old andnew alike, are giving positive reviews about the experiencetheyve had during his per ormances rom his solo tour inEurope in the rst quarter o 2009. AJ says that his newproject allowed me to rediscover a sense o who I am. Working with remarkable people like Ryan Tedder, JCChasez and Mark Hudson, the album promises a unkysound that will be di erent rom the Backstreet Boys sound,

but will still give the listeners areconnection with AJ on whohe is as a solo artist. Fans in thePhilippines wait in anticipationas it was later on announced byUniversal Records Philippinesthat AJs solo album, aptlyentitled Have It All , will bereleased in February, 2010.

BRIAN t was very un ortunate that a member o theBackstreet Boys became one o the recentlyreported cases o Americans diagnosed with swine

fu a ter traveling rom abroad. Brian contracted the fu whilethe Boys were in Asia. The Boys rst went to Singapore inSeptember or a special appearance in the F1 EntertainmentRace Event. Therea ter, they headed to Japan to promotethe early release o This Is Us and to shoot their latest singleBigger . It wreaked panic among ans all over the world aseveryone was anxious as to Brians condition. In a videoblog, Brian announced the postponement o their promotour. The Boys were due to promote their new album inNew York on the week they arrived, coinciding with therelease o their new album This Is Us . Whilst with the fu,Brian was on quarantine in his hotel room, while the resto the Boys and their sta underwent medical check-upsto ensure their health. A week a ter being diagnosed and a

ew days a ter being cleared, hes back in Cali ornia wherehe per ormed with the rest o the group to continue with thepromotion o the new album.

Get updated on our Boys Projec

tsBSB News

THE BOYS he Backstreet Boys launched their newest studioalbum, entitled This Is Us , which included soproduced and written by some o the most talented

key persons in the music industry, such as Max Martin, JimJonsin, Ryan Tedder and RedOne. Released on October6, 2009, their new single Straight Through My Heashowcased their voices that is truly Backstreet. The rstleg o the This Is Us Tour kicked o in Europe last October30 until December 6. Their scheduled per ormance inDubai on December 17 o this year rose excitement andanticipation rom the BSB ans in the Middle East whohad dreams o reaching out to the Boys ever since thegroup started in 1996. This will be the Boys rst concertin the country. Japan and North American tour dates or2010 are already available and more Asian countries areexpected to be included in the tour map.

HOWIE

NICK ick Carters newest lm Kill Speed , with Andrew Keegan and Brandon Quinn, waoriginally entitled Fast Glass . Due to

promotion, the original movie lost track. Now, promotionis in ull speed with the lmsname change and a tour othe cast. Also, in the summero 2009, Nick recorded aninteresting collaboration withJenni er Paige or the latterslatest album. The singleBeauti ul Lie hit the airwavesin Germany, Austria andSwitzerland on October 6. Itsdigital version was released inEurope last November 20, 2009.

Photo Credits: http://www.bsbsquad.com/ Sources: A terburner lms.Com / The Backstreet Boys O cialSite / The BackstreetBoys.Com / Examiner.Com / IMDB.Com / Jenni erpaige.com / MTV.Com / Popwatch.ew / Popmusicscene.Com / Universal Records Philippines Facebook Page/Notes


ter more than a year asa married couple, Howieand Leigh Dorough welc-

omed their rst child last May 6,2009. In an o cial statement romthe Backstreet Boys website, it wasannounced: James HokeDorough was born at 2:30pm on May 6th. He weighed4.5 pounds and was 16 1/4 . Howie and Leigh named hima ter Howies Dad. Both Mommy and baby are doinggreat and Howie D is an ecstatic new Daddy . Theyd liketo thank everyone or their well wishes! On the rst weeko November 2009, during the Backstreet Boys Europeantour, Leigh and baby James joined Howie and the ans

nally had a glimpse o the third Backstreet baby.


4/13

epresenting the Backstreet Boys Fan Club Philippines(BSBFCP) and 103.5 MAX FM, BSBFCPs Of cialRadio Station, Lorry Lizares and Crislyn Barnuevo had

a sit-down interview with the Backstreet Boys last September25, 2009 in the hip and sleek Ink Bar in Singapore.

Crislyn Barnuevo (CB): We know everyones going to askabout the album so were just going to tweak a bit o thesequestions to make it a little bit personal What was one o your

most memorable experiences when you were in Manila? Thelast one was in 2006 or the Never Gone Tour.

Lorry Lizares (LL): Howie, you were in Manila in September 2008.

*All the Boys turned to Howie*

Howie: I know, personally or me, probably the most memorableexperience was having a chance to do a recording with SarahGeronimo and do a video there. Actually, the more memorableone was going to Boracay, where I had two days o there. Itwas a beauti ul magical little island and I was reminiscing withthe guys here earlier about how cause weve been to many

places and sometimes were jogging our memories, guringout wheres exactly everything at I was reminding themabout these taxicabs and how they were all di erent colors andtheyre almost like old military cabs, things that they chop thetop o and had this like little hand bells on it. Its really cool.

CB: I youre not doing interviews today and you can dowhatever you wanted, what would each o you be doingright now?

Brian: Actually, Nick and I will be playing gol . We actuallyplayed gol yesterday when we landed. We few close to 17and a hal hours rom Cali ornia, we connected in Hongkongand when we landed, we came over the bridge and we cameto see the hotel and we saw this gol course over by the waterand we thought Wow! Lets go play gol ! You know, its a goodtime to get outside, kind o re-train your ocus somewhere elsebecause we are in ront o the camera a lot and people wannaask questions and stu and its nice to get away with that, beoutside and its un. And, they actually turned the lights on.Thats the craziest thing! Were playing gol , in the dark, with thelights on. Its like, in America, that just doesnt happen.

FeauredAr

ce

Interview with the BackstreetBoys in Singapore

Photo Courtesy o Sony Music Singapore

CB: It must be challenging to play in the dark. *grins*

Nick: Yeah, it is!

Brian: Oh, it was very challenging to lose the ball and you wishit comes into the lights. *makes sounds*

CB: Is there anyone o you who had a night-out last night?

Howie: AJ did.

AJ: I actually went out last night. There was this most amazingview. I was in the, whats the hotel next-door?

Howie: The Swiss.

AJ: The Swiss has an amazing view o the entire F1 track, ormost o it. They were like cleaning it, getting it ready. But, or

me, i Im not doing anything, i Im not gol ng with these guys,shopping. I love to shop, especially here. Its because o theculture and the ashion. Its just that you can get stu that youcant get back in the States.

CB: Have you ever tried the Singapore Sling?

Howie: Yes, I have.

AJ: Yup, I have. We had that one yesterday.

Howie: I Im not doing the interview right now, Ill be on thebeach, sipping the Singapore sling right now.

Brian: What is in the Singapore Sling?

Howie: Its like gin

AJ: Its like gin I had one yesterday. It tastes like ruit punchwhich isnt a bad thing. Then, youll know when you have twoor three and be ore you know it, youll be *drops head on theside like a drunk going to sleep*

CB: Theres something similar to that in the Philippines, wecall it Mindoro Sling in Manila, almost like a ruit punch.

Howie: I had that.

LL: Okay, so this is our last, not really a question, but a requesti you have any message to the members o BSBFCP?

CB: Its your o fcial an club in the Philippines.

Nick: Our message is thank you or all your support and wevebeen working really, really hard on this album This Is Us andwere preparing an amazing tour and a show, and we hope thatyoure just as excited as we are: to hear it, to see it, to experienceit. Were going to give you a Backstreet Boys experience thatyoull never gonna orget.

Brian: We just wanna thank them or keeping our name out thereand continuing to support us because the act that we dont get thechance to come, but every three, our, ve years sometimes, its alittle disappointing because we do have ans all around the worldthat we have to get to so we wish we could come more, but wethank them or being there when we need them.

CB: The last time was in 1996, then you came back on2006 and then, were still waiting i youre coming again toManila

AJ: Well not wait or ten years again, dont worry.

Brian: Were getting closer.

Were all clinging to that promise Indeed, it has been while but, the Boys themselves have assured us that theyll beback soon.

A ter their success ul per ormance in the F1 Concert in Singaporthe Boys headed to Japan to continue promoting their new albumand to shoot the video or their latest single, Bigger .




5/13

Abum

aunch THIS IS US.

FOR YOU..

he event was held at theFunction Room o Congo Grillat El Pueblo, Ortigas Center,Pasig City, just a ew weeks

a ter the country was ransacked by two(2) successive super typhoons. Despiteit all, the BSBFCP admins managed toput together a simple yet un- lled event

or the members.

Guests rom Sony Music Philippinesand Max-FM 103.5 graced the eventwith their presence. While the attendeeswaited or the venue to be lled up, theaudience was treated with video clips othe Boys during their stay in Singaporelast September. This kept the membershyped in anticipation as to what wouldbe in store or them in the event.

The a air began with a prayer byBSBFCPs Marketing Head, EdgeJalandoni. Lorry Lizares, BSBFCPsHead Coordinator, gave the openingremarks and a welcome message to theguests and the members therea ter.

A ter the guests were introduced, anumber o BSBFCP and Max-FMgoodies were ra fed out. One membereven won a 6-piece set CD sampler

rom Sony Music. (Lucky, lucky girl!) While the oodies were being served, alistening party ensued which eaturedsnippets o the songs included in thenew album. A ter that, the ull video othe Boys interview in Singapore le t the

By Hazel Balajadia

Filipinos are known to smile and wave at any camera amidst tribulationsand catastrophes, and last October 17, 2009, this cheerfulness andpositivity was once again displayed during the launch of the BackstreetBoys new album, This Is Us.

members, especially the girls, drooand wanting or more. I believe aleveryone went green with envy (mincluded, hehehe!) when they Crislyn Barnuevo, BSBFCPs ExecAssociate, and Lorry talk to the Bthemselves in person during an interv(Dont worry, girls, well have our chsoon. *wink*)

With tummies ull, hearts pouwith joy and excitement, and sensatis ed, the event proceePlaques o appreciation were giverepresentatives o Sony and Max-FMtheir continued help and support.

Prior to the event and in keeping the clubs primary objective to livethe Backstreet Boys attribute o giva call or donations or the victims otyphoons was sent out to the membeA number o members were gracand generous enough to bring stu them and the club was able to colboxes ull o clothing, canned goodsother items. These were then giventhe Rotaract Club o Timog a ewa ter the event.

The day ended with the memsinging along to Time, the clubs osong... Another job well done, by the admins and the members... everybody was bidding arewell, the

lled with a renewed hope that somesoon, well be seeing the Boys again..




6/13

othing can stop theBackstreet Boys rommaking their timelesssignature songs. Yes, theyare back again! This time

with more talented producers strikingthe current music scene, with the likes o RedOne, Claude Kelly, Brian Kennedy,Ryan Tedder, Josh Hoge, and o course,their ever reliable, Swedish hit-makerMax Martin, among many others.

The carrier single, Straight Through My Heart, lays out the dance theme or thealbum. Youll easily nd yoursel pulsatingto the beats rom tracks with the likes oBye Bye Love and PDA, as well asthe resh, additional track in their Asianrelease, Helpless eaturing Pitbull. I

nd mysel in a trance and bobbing myhead to a craze o helplessness. The

album encompasses a type o musicalstyle youd enjoy with its usion o synthsand youth ul vibe. There are a number otracks which are releasable as singles.The album includes great songs whichcan make it in the mainstream, Im surenon- ans would be surprised it came

rom the Backstreet Boys. Undonegoes parallel to the hits that made it big

or One Republic and Justin Timberlake,as a solo artist. The album encompassesa type o musical style youd enjoy withits usion o synths and youth ul vibe.There are a number o tracks which arereleasable as singles. The album includesgreat songs which can make it in themainstream, Im sure non- ans would be

ast December 29, 2009, the Backstreet Boys Fan ClubPhilippines (BSBFCP) had a simple, but un- lled, get-together as an advance Christmas party with BSB riends

at the Green Tomato in EDSA Shangri-La Plaza.

Feasting on sumptuous Italian dishes, the event was attended byold and new members, who shared stories and jokes with eachother, BSB encounters and memories also included, o course.

Artist: Backstreet BoysAlbum: This Is UsAlbum Review By: Lorelie Dio(concert & album reviewer at www.titikpilipino.com + BSB Fan )

THIS IS USAlbum Review

surprised its came rom the BackstreetBoys. Undone goes parallel to the hitsthat made it big or One Republic andJustin Timberlake, as a solo artist. Thereis a variety in the songs storylines, romwooing a ladys heart, to alling in love,describing ones a ections, to beingheart broken, and saying goodbye. Onewill simply enjoy BSBs dance tracks andget mushy with their ballads.

This is one o my avorite CDs romthe Backstreet Boys. The album covershows a theater setting, which is alignedwith their This Is Us tours main theme,A Night at the Movies. This Is Usis the kind o album where one would

nd it a great di culty to choose justone avorite song. Its loaded with lotso great melodies, rom the mixingand arrangement o the songs to the

beauti ul harmony o the Boys voices. My personal top choices are: All Of Your Life (You Need Love), This IsUs, and Masquerade. The track, AllOf Your Life (You Need Love), is one Ilove dancing to. I can also relate to itsmessage. Everybody needs love, right? Then comes This Is Us, a track bearingthe same title as the album. I cannothelp but all in love with this song. Acollaboration with Howie Doroughhimsel , its a song or the romantics withits syrupy strings or intro. It is ull osweetness and longingness that makesme want to cry. For me, This Is Us islike the new version o Ill Never Break Your Heart. How touching it is to be

understood by a special man this trackis de ntiely to die or! Who wouldnt melti your man would to declare his love oryou to the world with This Is Us? Now,what makes me want to hit the dancefoor is Masquerade. With its rhythmic,lyrical content and danceable tune, Iimagine mysel in a magical dance ball. This could make an incredible single! Iwonder why Brian dislikes it. Maybe itsbecause hes the one holding out thosevery long, high notes or this track. Come on, its awesome and you know it! You carry o those high notes really well,B-Rok!

I the critics would just back o or amoment rom their bash est o so-calledboy bands and pop music, and give ita good listen, Im pretty sure theyll beplaying this 7th BSB studio album over

and over again. The Backstreet Boys arede nitely back and theyll keep comingback because we want more o them. Exceptional talent does not come alongeasily and the Boys have been aroundlong enough to prove that they havewhat it takes to be the shining stars thatthey are --- gorgeous looks, the charm, bighearts, and above all, astounding angelicvoices with suave, dancing and ootwork.

Rating: Per ect 5/5 Stars!

H A P P Y BSBFCP C H R IS T M AA ter the meal, Christmas spirit came to li e as an exchange ogi ts was had. Attendees also brought donations or BSBFCPssponsored oundation Philippine Animal Wel are Society (PAWSSome o the items donated were some old newspapers, pet

ood, ascorbic acid, old tarpaulin banners and towels.

It indeed was a great night and everyone is looking orward toanother Christmas evening in 2010.




7/13


8/13

Yes! Dreams Do Come True...By Crislyn Barnuevo

Photo Courtesy o Sony Music Singapore

Crislyn Barnuevo (3rd rom le t with the BSB and team BSBFCP!)

have been a Backstreet Boys ansince I was in third year high school.I never liked their song Get Down ,but when I heard the song Anywhere

for You , there was no turning back. I became adie-hard an and I didint care about what otherpeople might say or think.

Fast orward to twelve years later, I amstill a an. Heck, I even have a businesscard issued in my name with a title role asExecutive Associate/Editorial Manager othe Backstreet Boys Fans Club Philippines.The an club was never really planned untilsupport rom a number o good people romthe music industry was given to me and somenew- ound riends. We were then able tostart a group which is now amously calledBSBFCP. It became a part-time job that Ienjoyed doing. I never get paid or what I do.All was done or my love or the ve, now our,sans Kevin Richardson, talented and humblemen rom Florida. Who would have thoughtthat one day, some ew minutes be ore noono my parents wedding anniversary; I wouldbe able to talk to our o my avorite guys inthe world? And, o all places, in Singapore!

I booked a fight to Singapore as soon as Iwas given the chance to represent our countryto interview the Backstreet Boys in theirappearance in the F1 racing entertainment

FeauredAr

ce

show. Since vacation leaves are not allowedin our o ce, I decided to report or sick leave.This is an once-in-a-li etime opportunity and Ijust cannot miss this or anything else.

I psyched mysel that I have to be calm orthe interview. I had to set aside my an girlybehavior to appear pro essional and proper.I kept on repeating my mantra, Be Calm.Theyre just people too. I guess it worked.

The press con erence was held in FairmontHotel, 25th o September 2009. When wegot there, there were other groups romdi erent countries who also came or thepress con erence. Some were winners ora Meet & Greet contest, while the rest weremembers o the media. Ill be representingthe Philippine radio station MAX-FM 103.5,as well as BSBFCP. Whatever the case was,Im still there, with a Philippine fag sticker onmy chest and representing my country. Sucha simple, yet challenging, task, but it was veryhumbling and Im honored.

An hour be ore the press con erence, we weretreated with a listening party. The BackstreetBoys are scheduled to release their 7th studioalbum This Is Us . I know the album is goingto be great. The ans inside the club, wherethe press con erence will be held, were hypedby the great songs eatured in the album.

My BSBFCP colleagues were excited. I amexcited too, but kind o weird though as Iwas very calm, very relaxed, as i I dont mind

acing the men that Ive been dreaming o allthese years. Actually, my dream didnt evencome close to this. God had been so greatthat He ul lled my dream and He even madeit more spectacular. I never thought that, allalong, He wanted me to meet them in personand up close to ask them questions. I cantask or any other birthday present even or thenext ty years!

A ew minutes be ore the Boys made theirappearance, I received a call rom the o ceabout some problem with a client. I dealt withit rst causing me to miss the Boys arrivalonstage. I didnt mind. When I saw them, Iwas still searching or that tensed eeling, butI didnt eel anything other than being relaxed.

There was a warm reception rom theaudience in the hotels club, the Ink Bar.The Boys were asked questions, and my

riend Lorry was able to ask one. She wasmy partner or the one-on-one interviewthat would ollow. She asked what the Boys

avorite song in the album was. Lorry toldthem that her avorite was Bye Bye Love which she elt was suited or her becauseshe just broke up with her boy riend. Therewere aaawwws in the dimly-lit room, even

Top: Fairmont Hotel Faade

Middle: Crislyn poses outside the hotel

Bottom: Team BSBFCP poses with MillaMyx Channel Philippines

rom the Boys. AJ, Lorrys avorite BackstreetBoy, said that he liked the song, too, sodoes Howie, who jokingly added that hejust cant sing it to his wi e. Brian sang thesong with improvised lyrics: I think I wannastay married/Baby were better together There was laughter in the crowd. Brian wasin a singing mood which was a good omen

or me. Hes going to be active during theinterview. Somebody requested them tosing a capella which, o course, they sang sobeauti ully. They are so talented. Then, therewas this girl who was called by the emcee togo onstage because she said she wanted toapply as the new member o the BackstreetBoys. The Boys smiled and greeted her. Shemade an impromptu audition in ront othe Boys and asked the crowd to sing theirlatest single Straight Through My Heart. Thecrowd indulged her and she danced, muchto everyones amusement. I think shesgood and I elt great to be there to witnessthat everyone was having a great time. A terdancing and seeing that the Boys probablydidnt know how to react and opted to justmake a series o high- ves with her, the girladded that she can make good co ee. Briancommented that Kevin always make greatco ee, too. Laughter lled the club again.

A ter the press con erence, the BackstreetBoys bid arewell and photo op came next.The Philippine team was called rst, so weheaded to the VIP area where the Boys werewaiting. It was un ortunate that the winner othe Meet and Greet contest in the Philippineswas not able to come with us because o avirus threat. I hope Genelyn is ne now. Backto the photo op, we were easily recognizedbecause o the similar jackets we werewearing, and, when the Boys saw us, theygreeted us immediately, with a combinationo hugs, kisses and handshakes. I was able

to look straight into Nick Carters eyes andshake his hand. I was able to stand in ronto AJ, shook his hand while he asked or myname. I was able to hug and kiss Brian andHowie. Probably, I was too overwhelmed withwhat was happening that I didnt mani est theusual an reaction. Instead, I was calm andcomposed; I know that I was able to make myDad proud o his daughter or being so. Haha!

A ter the photo op, we were ushered towardsthe hotel lobby. We went out and back to theentrance o the club or our interview. ThePhilippines will be the rst one to interviewwhich was great because we can still catchup with the Boys energy. Mila from MYXMusic Channel ( rom the Philippines, too) wasthe rst to interview them. She also broughtwith her some stu rom our an club which weasked or her to autograph. How nice o her!

While waiting, I suddenly became chatty - inEnglish! I elt so honored or being given theopportunity to talk with the Boys. I didntwant to ail our mentors who supported usand helped us to be where we are right now.I was into internalizing my task at hand whenJanice rom Sony Music Asia came and gaveour cue or the interview. This is it!

The Boys were waiting when we reachedthe interview area. I elt pride in my heart as Iwas representing my country in this interview.This interview was something special or me. It was my dream. This will go down in mypersonal history as being one o the chosen

ew to speak with one o the best-selling andmost talented music artists o all time. Thiswill also go down in my personal history asmy best per ormance in speaking English.Yeah, thats it, I guess. Hahaha!

The Boys were so chatty, talking arandom stu while we waited, andHowie snapped his ngers, prompting thto proceed with the next interview. Four po eyes were now looking at us. Oh. My.

Be ore the interview started, AJ asked mewas okay with my seat. There were not enouseats or us during the interview and I hcramp mysel near Lorry just to be able

acing them. Still I was able to manage toand appear pro essional despite the discomIt was very sweet and nice o AJ to ask me to apologize that there werent enough seattold him its okay and thanked him or the swgesture. A ter this, AJ now has a very spplace in my heart, hehehe. *wink*

Lorry started the session with an int roducWhen she introduced me as a representatof MAX FM and the Editorial ManaBSBFCP, she also showed the cover olatest issue o the newsletter. The Boys w




9/13

amazed at the beauti ul layout - kudos toLorry but, the our pairs o eyes looked atme and I only smiled. No, I did not do thelayout, as Im more involved with the content,but we werent able to correct that becauseo the limited time we had. Lorry laid out theagenda or the interview and a ter they saidtheir piece for the MAX FM ID, I took in mycue and started asking the questions. Theregoes Mr. Carters eyes on me again. Ahem, dontlook at me please, I thought. I might stammer!

Taking in a mild breath, the interview started. (Note: For the complete transcript of Cris andLorrys interview with the Backstreet Boys,kindly see page 5)

Prior to this interview, I had been watchingvideo clips in Youtube on how the BackstreetBoys act or deal with the interviewers. They willreally look at you straight in the eye, oh, thosebeauti ul eyes. I could have melted right thereand then, but I have a job to nish. I personallyrespect them or their pro essionalism duringinterviews because o the way their soleattention was on the interviewer. In my nextquestion, the Buys started answering stuabout what they would rather do. It was unnybecause they seemed to have a lot in mindand I cant blame them. It would be a wasteto be in a beauti ul place such as Singaporeand not be able to savor the surroundings.Brian told us about his excitement when hesaw the sprawling green gol course rom theplane when they arrived in the city. Later in theevening, he and Nick went to play gol and hewas amazed on how people accommodatedthem in the gol club and even turned on allthe lights or their convenience. Nick wassharing the story as well so I countered it onhow challenging it has been to play at night.Nick and Brian agreed. Can I just kiss Nick?Hahaha! He is so charming!

There was a lot o other stu that we havediscussed during the interview. I only had twoquestions but we were able to talk about justanything we could think o . It was meant to bean interview but turned out to be somewhatlike a laid-back conversation between riendswho hadnt seen each other or a long time.When I told them we were done, they lookedlike thats it? Believe me, I could talk to them

orever. They were nice and very sensible, thetype o guys that I like. *wink*

A ter the interview, we gave them our gi ts.Nick obviously looked excited about thegi ts. When we showed them the goodies, heimmediately asked or his paper bag. I gaveit to him and he quickly rummaged throughit. Again, theres this thought - can I just hughim? Hahahahaha! Then, they began signingour stu . The interview is over.

My respect or the Backstreet Boys roseto a higher level. They are so kind andaccommodating to their ans and to otherpeople as well. I was able to observe it asI looked around the club during the presscon erence and I was able to experienceit rst-hand during the interview. I nowrealized the reason why I didnt eel tenseprior to the interview. It was because, despite

their international stardom, I didnt eel themagnitude o their status as music artistsbecause they are not acting as such. Letsjust say, they are just like everyone else -normal people, but with extraordinary lives.Regardless, they are de nitely well-groundedpeople and thats probably the secret o theirstaying power.

I love the Backstreet Boys more and thisexperience gave me more inspiration indealing with my li e and career. I want tothank Lorry, the BSBFCP Head Coordinator,

or being my partner in this interview. Shesupported me in everything, and boostedmy morale prior to this interview. Without her,I would not have been strong and con dentenough to do this and ace them.

The experience did not sink into me yet, onhow close I was to my avorite Boys, untillater when I was already back in the hotel. The sun was setting in the horizon and I waseating a ham sandwich with Lorry. I began tocry. Tears just came out and I elt so happyon what Id accomplish. My mantra probablywore o because I didnt have to restrainmysel to be calm anymore. I poured all myemotions through tears. I am very grate ul orthe opportunity and thank ul to God or theblessing and guidance.

I would have wanted a longer chance to bewith them, even a solo photo with each othe guys, but I wont ask or anything morenow. Talking with them or more than teenminutes was enough. It was more than what a Backstreet Boys an could ask or and I waslucky. One rarely gets the chance to talk witha amous international group o music artistsand Im one o those people. I even have avideo or a souvenir! Isnt that great?

I really believe it now yes, dreams do come true!

Name: Katharina

Nickname: Kat

Occupation: Secretary in Training

Which country are you rom? Germany

List 3 interesting things about you?Shy, crazy, emotional

What you like to do or un? Go to the movies,meet riends, go to starbucks with riends(lol!), go to concerts (not just BSB), listen tomusic, dancing

Whats the URL o your site?www.myspace.com/ajmcleanslounge , www.twitter.com/ajmcleanslounge , on Facebook ,search or [email protected]

How long have you been a BSB an?Since September 1995

What kind o guy is AJ in general? He is oneo the kindest and sweetest persons Iveever met in my li e

Tell us a little bit about The Lounge , what yeardid you start it?I started the site in 2008, shortly a ter AJssolo tour in Germany that year

What made you want to start the site?I had the idea a long time ago, but then a

riend asked me to help her with a site anda week a ter we started, I made the site by mysel cause she quit

There are so many AJ an sites, what makesyours di erent?We dont post any rumors and no leakedsongs

How many ans do your sites have atthe moment?On Myspace, almost 3,000 and on Facebook 1,058 and counting!

When was the rst time you met Alex, andhow many experiences have you had meetinghim? And which was the most memorableone o all?The frst time was in 2005 in Cologne inmay... He thought Im a groupie but I wasntand at the second evening there, he justcame to me gave me a big hug and sincethen he always gave me one :) He knew Iwasnt a groupie since I gave him a letter a ter the frst meeting LOL... then I met himagain in October 2005 and then 2007, thenin 2008 and now in 2009... I hope there aremore to come cause I dont wanna misshim anymore on my li e... He is a big part o it i I can say it like that ...

What, or you, makes Alex special?He is still down to earth... not the superstar... He always listens to you when yotalk to him... He always looks into your eywhen you talk with him and he is a really swenice and kind person... and then his voice... Hhas such an awesome voice

Whats your message or Alex?Stay yoursel ...and be true to yoursel hugs and kisses*

Whats your message to the ans olloyour site?Keep ollowing or the latest news aAlex... and tell your riends about the site

amlajmcleansloungeIf youre an AJ Fan and want to getupdated about anything-Alex, thenthis German-based site is definitelyworth visiting!

At a hotel in Cologne taken June 2005

Soundcheck in Berlin at the This Is Us TouNovember 2009

I felt so honoredfor being giventhe opportunity

to talk to the

backstreet Boys.




10/13

Full Name: Marco M. Borromeo

Occupation: Radio Jock

What do you like to do or un?Basketball, video games andmovies. Working-out i Im notinjured Hehe

How long have you been a ano BSB?Since 1997

What kind o an are you? Did youlike BSB rom way, way back orhave you just recently rekindled yourappreciation o the NEW Backstreet

Boys?Old school. Since be ore pa, buttheir new songs are good too... Theyve evolved, which is good.

Any memories o BSB during yourteen years? Was there ever anincident that you danced to a BSBsong at school?YEP! Ginoo ng Wika. I sang anEnglish song a BSB songhehe, and on Seniors Night, weserenaded the girls with As LongAs You Love Me.

aka D.J. Zip Cody of 103.5 Max FM

Who is your avorite Boy?-Brian coz he uses hisGod-given talent andproclaims it

Which particular song did yin BSBs latest album and whBye, Bye Love is good wouldnt want a girl who... you know... Hehe

Any interesting act about yyoud like to share?Hehe... Right now in li e, Imto grow up and be a REAL mMen nowadays are ar romthey should be and how

should be...

How do you eel about being an now that youre more ma

Well, or one Im not ashamadmit it Got no regrets bei

an... =D

What do you think makesspecial as artists/musicians?Other than being one obiggest/best boy bands evThey still got it Know wmean? ;)

MarcoBorromeo

was 12 when I walked into my cousins room and Isaw this cassette tape lying on his bed. As a usualnosy kid, I looked at it and saw these ve cute guyson the cover o the Backstreets Back album. Theone who got my attention most was the blond kid.

From then on, I became the biggest an, i not in the Philippines,at least where I lived. Just like the other Backstreet anatics, Ihave posters all over my room, I have about 60 song booksand magazines with the Backstreet Boys on the cover, andIve spent most o my allowance buying their cassette tapesbecause I cant a ord CDs at that time. I also daydreamed omarrying Nick Carter one day (come on, I know most o you areguilty o this too I even had an invitation made or to my highschool best riend!), or at least meeting them or watching themin concert. This has caused me many sleepless nights

It was January 2006 when my childhood dream came true. When I heard that the Boys were coming to the Philippines aspart o their Never Gone Tour, I can still remember how my heartpounded, how every nerve in my body tingled with excitement.

Every time I went to the mall, I regularly went to the TicketCentre to check i theyre already selling the tickets. Finally,the time came; I was with a riend then. She knew how happyI was the moment I got my ticket. I went to the concert bymysel , yes I did. Even though I was criticized or buying suchexpensive ticket and called an addict, who cares, it could bea once in a li etime chance, plus Ive been waiting or this tohappen or a decade.

I will never ever orget that day or the rest o my li e. I have seenthem twice now. Second time, was last year, August 2008 inToronto here in Canada. But, thats another story to tell.

Being a BSB an is one o the greatest things that ever happenedto me, not only did they give me joy, but most importantly, itwas because o them that I met one o the best people in thisworld, one o my very best riends, Camille.

Being a reshman in college is, I think, one o the tougheststages a student could ever encounter, especially the rst day.Eventually, I ound a group o riends, not knowing that one othem is a super avid an o the Backstreet Boys. When I oundthis out, we totally hit it o . The times we were together weretremendously amazing -- a lot o blabbering about the Boysand their songs.

When I visited her house, I went to her room and got shockedo how ull it was o the Boys posters. And I thought I wascrazy But, guess what, here is another person, even crazierthan I am! I was just so happy to have met someone who islike me, one who could understand my emotions, and one whoshares the same passion like mine.

A year a ter, however, we had to part ways. I decided to tra ns erschools and she was migrating to Japan. That was more than8 years ago now.

Most people, who spent less time together, they just grewapart, and move on. But, what we have is so strong that neithertime nor place made any e ect to what weve built, instead, thedistance and time made it stronger.

We write letters to each other religiously. O course, there weretimes when I slacked because school at that time was toostress ul. I did bounce back. I began to keep up and I wrote toher as soon as I get her letters, boring her with school stu , withmy rustrations in li e, my dreams and a boy I liked. *wink* Shesjust too gracious with it all. Needless to say, never was there aletter when the Backstreet Boys were not mentioned.

I do miss her because she is one wonder ul and great girl. Thatsthe reason is why she is my best riend. I just wish though thatwe dont live thousands o miles away rom each other.

I know that one day well meet again. Who knows? I mightbe able to visit her in Japan next time and watch a BackstreetBoys concert with her. That seems a bit ar- etched right now,but, what I learned in li e and as a BSB an is that, Dreams dohappen... in their own time.

So guys, live your li e to the ullest, or the uture is a scarce -whatever that means...

Hmmm, Im thinking o a good parting line, I mean, this is mychance right? Well, aside rom hoping that Camille will be ableto read this amateur article o mine, I just wanna tell everyoneout there to KEEP THE BACKSTREET PRIDE ALIVE!!!

Good enough, so bye or now guys. See yah on the next issue. Love lots...

Why being a BSB fan is

by Myra Blanco (a.k.a Charmian Blanco)Mississauga, Ontario Canada

S U P ER C OO L!

Catch Zip Cody s showson 103.5 Max FM

THE BEAT BOX with H-TownMonday-Thursday3pm to 6pm

D30 COUNTDOWNSaturdays 12nn-3pm




11/13

BSBFCP gets to know this talented Indie Brit-Rock Pinoy Band!

ormerly called The Pin-Up Girlsand made up o Mondo, Jeng,Mitch, and Ryan, the group isone o the seven lucky bands

who were signed up or Apl.D.Aps JeepneyMusic Group. Now popularly known asThe Pin-Ups, who would have thought thatthis talented group has been around or 10years already? Part o their resume wouldinclude being signed with the Seattle-basedSutton Music Group in 2005 and rontingthe Norwegian New Wave band, Fra LippoLippi in the latters Araneta concert in 2006. The Backstreet Boys Fan Club Philippineshad the opportunity to sit down with ThePin-Ups ront man, Mondo Castro, as parto its ourth year celebration and in supporto talented ellow Filipinos who are not onlyrecognized and applauded locally, but also inthe international music scene.

COMMUNITY BLEND (CB): WHAT KINDOF BAND IS THE PIN-UPS?

Pin-Ups (PU): The Pin-Ups is a New Wave/ Brit-Rock/Indie-infuenced band. The groupis the rst Phililppine-based band to getsigned to a U.S. Label. We have released aCD there and have been played on radiostations. Recently, our song Jackson Pollock

F eat ur ed F an S i t e

www.myspace.com/thepinupgirlsmusic

9 was included in Manchester, U.K.s BabyBoom Records Compilation CD, the rstFilipino band to get eatured in a U.K. CD . Wedont ollow trends and pop ormulas. We justwant to create our own thing.

CB: WHO ARE YOUR INFLUENCES?

PU: We love a lot o bands. Here are a ew:Joy Division, The Ramones, The Clash, TheCure, Echo and the Bunny Men, Pixies,Juliana Hat eld, Oasis, Blur, The StoneRoses, The Smiths, Jesus and Mary Chain,Placebo, Etc. :)

CB: WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE SONGSFROM YOUR ALBUMS?

PU: This is a hard one. Obviously we loveJackson Pollock 9, The Five MinuteHallway, Caress and our collaboration withthe late Francis M, Water the Moon.

CB: WHAT DO YOU WANT THE LISTENERSTO FEEL AFTER LISTENING TO THESONGS?

PU: For them to eel like they have connectedto something about the songs, - lyrics, guitarri or whatnot.

CB: WHAT MAKES YOU DIFFERENTFROM OTHER PINOY (FILIPINO) BANDS? PU: Well, we write rom the Perspectiveo who we are as opposed to Who we arewriting these tunes or. We do not write tuneswith the goal o having masses sing to themand earn tons o dough. At the end o the day,its all about the music.

CB: WHATS YOUR MESSAGE TO BSBFCP?

PU: We are in awe o your dedication to BSB.Its just inspiring. We are deeply fattered thatyou guys are supporting us. The Pin-Ups andthe BSB have totally di erent sounds, andwe are nowhere near their stature. Thank youand know that we are orever grate ul that youguys have noticed us. I guess that music ismusic and the wise make no distinction. GODBLESS YOU ALL!

Pnoyband

nfocus

ere youll nd what BSB ans rom all over the worldhave to say about anything - rom the Backstreet Boys,o course, to events happening in the society Theres

a corner or one o BSBFCPs artistic members check out hisanime version o the Boys

Theres also a spot or some o the ans avorite songs o theThis Is Us album I bet most o them have been memorizing thelyrics non-stop in preparation or the Boys upcoming Asian tour

Finally, taking the serious side o things, theres an article abouthow one BSB an perceives and eels as she tackles a socieplague which is presently existent in our world today, that iracial and religious discrimination Yes, it may be a lot to takeat once, but, believe me, its too good to miss

So go on, turn the pages and see what more the BSB ans haveto o er, well besides love or BSB and screaming... *wink*

Welcome to Community Blends

Fan Corner!

By Denzil Orejola

Bsb C ar icature

Visit the Pin-Ups myspace site at:



L-R Ryan (Guitar), Mitch (Drums), Jeng (Base Guitar)& Mondo (Vocals and Guitarist)

The Pin-UpsSupports


12/13

Fan s' faveTIU tracks!

Now that the BSB ans in the Philippines already havetheir copies o the Backstreet Boys newest albumThis Is Us , lets hear out what they have to say on their

avorite song/s

Rizel RivasHi!Straight Through My Heart is my fave intheThis Is Us album. I always request for it here in Taiwan and it has been in the No. 1spot in the Taiwan Top Ten Countdown for 6weeks. I hope the Backstreet Boys will havetheir concert here in February 25, 2010.That would be great!

Anne de LeonIlik e t he songs S h a t t e re d and B y e B y e Lo v e v er y much!

K a t z Da v isF or me, Al l o f Y o u r Lif e ( N e e d Lo v e ) ... T his show s that in ev er y cloud, ther e is a silv er lining. Y ou may be hur t in the past , but alw ay s remember t hat t here is alw ay s hope and t her e w ill alw ay s be a w ay t o fnd happiness. Y ou may fnd it not only w ithy our amily and r iends, but also insomeone w ho w ill sav e and giv e y ou complet e happiness t hat y ouv e been searching or in allo y our li e... :)

Denzil OrejolaI lovethe songB ye B y e Lo v e because I defne it as apositive song o moving on t hrough arelationship a guydidnt want to let go in his li e, but then hefgured that he cant get back lovet hat easy, especially when you get toknow that ex-girl wants himback only or thesake o her prideandso as not tobe alone.

E m m a Ros e Z u lu e t aI lik e S h a t t e r e d and T h i s I s U s ...

Am or o u s Ann Aba nt a o B y e B y e Lo v e .!! T he best .!! ,)

Charmian BlancoHmmm...Bigger . Ilove it cause itsmelodic and fun...but I loveThis Is Us andUndone ...

Mercy Belt ranI loveU ndo n e ! T he lyr ics aremore matureanddeep. Icant get it out o my head!It s di erent romtheir usual st u , but itsa goodchange

Ynah Pantig

S t r ai g h t T h r o u g h M y H e ar t . :)

Nendz MarianoI love them all, but Shattered, Bye Bye love andThis Is Us are my favorites.Shattered: Its about me.Bye Bye Love :My song for that someone hehe...This Is Us : Im looking for someone whollsing this song to me, This is love, Imhere now. Haha! But most of all, I lovethe songAll in My Head , the unreleasedsong... I can really relate to the lyrics Feellike leaving, but I dont really want too andits just me, its all in my head.

Diane NdutI loveIf I Knew Then cause I feel it right now Second isShattered cause I always love balladsNext,Bigger cause I love the videoclip. The Boys are so funny there...Finally,This Is Us cause yeah, thisis us

Crislyn BarnuevoI love all the songs in this album,but if I really have to name a fewfavorites, I loveIf I Knew Then ,simply because I could somehowrelate to it.PDAis a sexy song andhas a good dance vibe in it. I loveit too. (,)

K h o i r u l M ak s u m ah I luv T h is I s U s c oz e v e r y I he ar t hi s s ong i r e me mbe r H ow i e , but i d on t k now w hy ? N i f i he ar S T M H , I f e e l happy w i t h the be at . Lol _^

Marjorie Granger Big g er is one of my fav orites... Itsa song that simply talk s about them-selves andhow they appr eciat e thelove of t heir fans and how t hey k eep their f eet t o the gr ound and giveusmore andmor e inspiring songs...w ay t o go Backstreet!!!!!

Hazel BalajadiaI lov e B ig g e r Isee it as a romant ic songw ithout much of the cheesiness Hehehe Plus,t heBoy s in the video ar e so endear ing They look ed lik e t hey were having so much f un, likether e w as not much act inginvolved Ialso lov eT h is Is U s T he beat makes me w ant t o go look for a dr umk it

LOL! Lastly , Ilove S h a t te r e d For me, it br ings out ther aw ness of t he Boys v oices

Imagine theres no countries, It isnthard to do. Nothing to kill or die for,and no religion too. Imagine all thepeople, living life in peace- Imagine by John Lennon

ohn Lennons composition be ore he died inspiredme to write something that would serve as a wake upcall or us. This particular stanza speaks well o howhe envisioned a li e without conficts or opposing

religious belie s one reason why the world has been divided and all o humanity is living in harmony and peace.

I also dream o the world that Lennon sees in his mind. It is one o

my many desires to see a world without discrimination, or I haveseen so much o it and its a sad sight, a sad reality, or anybody.

As Roman Catholic students in a Catholic school, the Churchnever taught its people to discriminate against other religions,but to respect them just as much as others respect our belie sand practices.

Majority o the people in the country are rm believers o Christand His teachings. I just cant help but wonder, though, howcome some o these so-called ollowers o Christianity lookat other people, particularly those who practice the Islamicdoctrine, negatively? I believe that everyone deserves to be

treated with airness and equality, and not in a way where wecriticize or treat them as outcasts. I eel that in this countryCatholicism is well-exercised, but its teachings are not somuch practiced.

I am not washing my hands rom any orm o discrimiadmit also having done the same in the past, but such belie swere changed as soon as I began dealing with people odi erent races and religious origins. I, too, had been a victimo such discrimination, but sadly not by people rom othereligions but by the very people who practice the same aithas I am.

It hurts me to hear words that condemn Muslims; it is so un aithat some people look at them as i they are either convicts orterrorists. I honestly eel or these people, being a Catholic whorespects them and a girl riend o a Muslim man who is beindiscriminated as well. It is not right to judge them, neither to

label them as terrorists, or they also condemn the evils o theIslamist bandits, wishing that these wicked deeds would soon end.

(Originally Published at the Knight Speak Column o The Lance, July 2008 Issue)

BRIDGETHE GAP

Illustration credits: http://zeenatsyal.fles.wordpress.

com/2009/08/peace-dove_melvin-k_16.jpg

By Irene Marie Xy-Zha Cabanlong



Racial and religious discrimination, sadly, is a reality, a diseasehappening and spreading in our society today. With therecent bombings, terrorist attacks and other related crimeslinking Muslims as suspects, it is no surprise that the age-old prejudice between Christians and non-Christians still livestrong despite our e orts to eradicate it. In this article, theauthor speaks o her hope that someday, this discriminationwill soon end.


13/13

Documents

Community Blend Issue 4