The Backstreet Boys’ decision to go public about the depression and alcohol abuse problems group member AJ McLean is battling was the right one to make, according to a recently completed Billboard.com poll. An overwhelming 79% of 6,019 respondents agreed with and appreciated the band’s candor when postponing a month’s worth of tour dates while McLean seeks treatment.
44% saw the move to be honest with fans as refreshing for a group that serves as role models for many young people. Another 35% felt that it was better to hear the news directly from the band, rather than to have it dug up later by prying media outlets.
A contingent of 14% disagreed, saying that the group gets its fair share of publicity as it is, while another 7% contended that such personal battles should be handled privately.
Napster claims to be nearly ready to launch its new fee-based service for trading music files online. Do you plan to sign up and use the new service? A new poll already underway in The Voting Booth seeks your opinion.
