What does DNA sound like?

A polished blend of contemporary pop and R&B harmonies that feels both nostalgic and fresh for a new generation. Rooted in contemporary R&B and dance-pop. Start with "Don’t Go Breaking My Heart".

Is DNA a good place to start with Backstreet Boys?

Yes, DNA is recommended as a starting point for new Backstreet Boys listeners. A polished blend of contemporary pop and R&B harmonies that feels both nostalgic and fresh for a new generation. Released on January 23, 2019, 'DNA' marked the Backstreet Boys' ninth studio album and their first in nearly six years since 'In a World Like This' (2013). At this stage, they were embracing a return to form while exploring modern production techniques, signaling a commitment to evolve their sound while honoring their legacy as pop icons.

DNA works well if you're into steady mid-tempo sing-alongs, infectious hooks for gatherings and feel-good vibes for road trips.

How many songs are on DNA?

DNA has 12 tracks, running approximately 39 minutes.

DNA

Backstreet Boys · 2019

39 min · 12 tracks · contemporary R&B

A polished blend of contemporary pop and R&B harmonies that feels both nostalgic and fresh for a new generation.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Don’t Go Breaking My Heart Start here — This upbeat opener sets the tone for the album with its infectious chorus and harmonized vocals, encapsulating the classic Backstreet Boys charm while showcasing modern production.
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Chances — A standout ballad that highlights the group's vocal prowess, blending emotional lyrics about taking risks in love with a contemporary pop sound that resonates with both old fans and newcomers.
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No Place — This track beautifully illustrates themes of love and belonging through rich harmonies and a soothing melody, representing the heart of the album's message about connection.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

46 /100

Foothills

Higher than 10% of albums we've rated

The album showcases polished production and strong harmonies but follows familiar pop-R&B structures.

What we noticed

The first half of the album maintains a consistent mid-tempo pace, while the second half introduces more varied tempos and emotional dynamics.
Several tracks feature layered vocal harmonies that build in intensity, particularly in the choruses, creating a rich sound texture.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 5/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady mid-tempo sing-alongs
infectious hooks for gatherings
feel-good vibes for road trips
polished harmonies in headphones

Maybe skip if you

prefer slow, introspective tracks
seek immediate high-energy bursts

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — DNA marked their first chart-topping album in nearly two decades, reviving their mainstream presence.
Themes: nostalgic love· modern romance· intimate ballads
Career context: Released on January 23, 2019, 'DNA' marked the Backstreet Boys' ninth studio album and their first in nearly six years since 'In a World Like This' (2013). At this stage, they were embracing a return to form while exploring modern production techniques, signaling a commitment to evolve their sound while honoring their legacy as pop icons.
Stylistic neighbors: NSYNC· 98 Degrees· O-Town