April 12, 1999 Album: Millennium

I Want It That Way

Backstreet Boys

About I Want It That Way

Read More Collapse “I Want It That Way” is one of the most iconic tracks by the Backstreet Boys, featured on their third studio album Millennium, released on April 12, 1999. Written by Max Martin and Andreas Carlsson, the song is a quintessential late-90s pop ballad, characterized by its catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics.

The track explores themes of love, miscommunication, and longing. Its memorable chorus and harmonized vocals made it a commercial and critical success. The official music video, directed by Wayne Isham, features the band performing at an airport and has become emblematic of the era. The song continues to be a staple of pop culture and is available on streaming platforms including Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube.

I Want It That Way Lyrics

[Intro: AJ]

Yeah

[Verse 1: Brian]

You are my fire

The one desire

Believe when I say

I want it that way

[Verse 2: Nick]

But we are two worlds apart

Can't reach to your heart

When you say

That I want it that way

Want to find more lyrics fast?

Try LyricRadar — search by song name or artist instantly.

Learn More

[Chorus: Nick, All]

Tell me why

Ain't nothin' but a heartache

Tell me why

Ain't nothing but a mistake

Tell me why

I never wanna hear you say

I want it that way

[Verse 3: AJ, AJ & Brian]

Am I your fire?

Your one desire

Yes, I know it's too late

But I want it that way

[Chorus: AJ, All, Brian]

Tell me why

Ain't nothin' but a heartache

Tell me why

Ain't nothin' but a mistake

Tell me why

I never wanna hear you say

I want it that way

[Bridge: Kevin, Kevin & AJ, All]

Now I can see that we've fallen apart

From the way that it used to be, yeah

No matter the distance, I want you to know

That deep down inside of me

[Verse 4: Howie, Nick, All]

You are my fire

The one desire

You are (You are, you are, you are)

Don't wanna hear you say

[Break: All, Nick]

Ain't nothin' but a heartache (Hey, yeah)

Ain't nothin' but a mistake (Don't wanna hear you say)

I never wanna hear you say (Oh, yeah)

I want it that way

[Chorus: Brian, All, Nick, AJ]

Tell me why

Ain't nothin' but a heartache

Tell me why

Ain't nothin' but a mistake

Tell me why

I never wanna hear you say (Don't wanna hear you say)

I want it that way

Tell me why

Ain't nothin' but a heartache

Ain't nothin' but a mistake

Tell me why

I never wanna hear you say (Never wanna hear you say, yeah)

I want it that way

[Outro: AJ]

'Cause I want it that way

AnyMusic MP3 Downloader

Found your favorite song? Download it in 320kbps with our unlimited MP3 downloader.

Learn More

LyricRadar

Search & match lyrics in bulk

Free Download Learn More

Lyric Video of I Want It That Way by Backstreet Boys

Line-by-Line Breakdown of I Want It That Way Lyrics

The lyrics of "I Want It That Way" express a bittersweet reflection on a complicated relationship. The verses detail miscommunication and emotional distance, while the chorus emphasizes the desire for love despite difficulties. The song concludes with a heartfelt repetition of the chorus, reinforcing its themes of longing and emotional sincerity.

Vocal Parts in I Want It That Way Lyrics

Backstreet Boys perform the song with signature tight harmonies, blending each member’s voice to create a smooth and emotive sound. The lead vocals are shared among members, while harmonies and backing vocals support the melodic structure. The vocal arrangement enhances the emotional resonance of the lyrics, contributing to the song's timeless appeal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is “I Want It That Way” about?

The song reflects on a complicated romantic relationship, focusing on love, longing, and miscommunication.

Who are the featured artists on the track?

The track features the Backstreet Boys as the performing artists.

Who produced the song?

The song was produced by Max Martin.

Where was the song recorded?

The song was recorded at Cheiron Studios in Stockholm, Sweden.

Is there a music video for the song?

Yes, the official music video, directed by Wayne Isham, was released alongside the track.