For those who anticipated that the Backstreet Boys would deliver a nostalgic performance of their iconic Millennium album in a classic track-by-track format during the launch of their Into the Millennium residency at Las Vegas’ Sphere, the opening night on July 11 proved to be a thrilling surprise. Fans expecting a linear progression from track 1 to track 12 were instead treated to a vibrant and dynamic setlist that captures the spirit of the 1999 classic while incorporating unexpected elements that keep the energy high.

Indeed, while all twelve tracks from the standard Millennium album make an appearance, including the newly minted single “Hey” from the much-anticipated Millennium 2.0 reissue, the sequence is not what the devoted ’90s fans might have memorized. The show kicks off with the electrifying opening track “Larger Than Life,” which also echoes the title of the Backstreet Boys’ previous Las Vegas residency from 2017 to 2019. From that moment onward, the setlist takes unexpected twists and turns, keeping both casual listeners and die-hard fans on their toes.

Early in the performance, the audience is surprised with a rendition of “As Long as You Love Me,” a timeless hit from their self-titled debut album released in 1996, as the third song of the evening. It is particularly noteworthy that “I Want It That Way,” regarded as one of the group’s most enduring hits, does not serve as the grand finale. Instead, the audience enjoys four additional songs after this signature ballad, showcasing the band’s commitment to delivering an exciting and diverse experience.

This strategic approach indicates that the Backstreet Boys are not merely playing it safe with their setlist; rather, they are embracing a bold mix of tracks. With a total of four selections from albums beyond Millennium, it is clear that the Boys are keen on catering to the casual Las Vegas audience that may primarily recognize them for their 1999 album while also delighting the loyal superfans who have supported them for over 25 years. This balance between nostalgia and freshness adds an exciting dimension to their show.

For those eager to discover the complete setlist from the inaugural night of the Backstreet Boys’ Into the Millennium residency at the Sphere in Las Vegas, which runs through August 24, we’ve compiled all the details below. Additionally, stay tuned for our in-depth recap of the performance, including insights into its stunning visuals that are sure to enhance the overall concert experience.