Backstreet Boys’ AJ McLean’s connection with Canada runs deep: “Canada is where it all really started for us,” he explains of the Backstreet Boys’ success. “Without Quebec into upstate New York, who knows if the Backstreet Boys would have broken in the US or if we would have had even an ounce of success that we’ve had?” the singer tells us during a recent visit to Toronto. It’s worth noting that to date, the Backstreet Boys have sold more albums in Canada than The Beatles. We caught up with AJ and got the scoop on his favourite Canadian drinks and food, plus why he’s so excited to be working with a Canadian company.
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AJ McLean’s Canadian appreciation
For AJ, the Backstreet Boys’ early success in the Great White North laid the foundation for a lifelong appreciation of all things Canadian: “I love the people here, I love the culture, I love the food, I love my poutine, I love the nightlife, I love the fashion,” AJ explains. “I would love to eventually get a place here just outside the city,” he says. It feels only fitting that AJ’s latest partnership is with Atypique, a Canadian mocktail brand that’s making major waves in the non-alcoholic space for its ready-to-drink mocktails inspired by popular cocktails like the margarita and Aperol spritz.
Atypique is available in seven flavours: Margarita, Sangria, Mojito, Amaretto Sour, Spritz, Gin & Tonic and Rum & Cola
Why AJ McLean is partnering with a Canadian company
As soon as he tried the drink, AJ told the brand’s founder, “This is genius, how do I get involved?” he explains. “And within a month the conversation turned into an ambassadorship.” It’s a natural fit for the Los Angeles, California-based singer, who started living a sober lifestyle two years ago and has been using his platform to share his sobriety journey ever since. AJ recognizes the value of sharing his story: “The biggest payoff is to be of service and to share your story to hopefully inspire others that might be struggling or finding it difficult to get sober,” he says. “Sharing your experience, strength and hope is really kind of at the epicentre.”
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One of the biggest challenges that comes with living a sober lifestyle is finding non-alcoholic alternatives that aren’t just water or pop, AJ tells us. For AJ, the gap in the market is so significant that he’s started bringing Atypique along with him when he goes out in Los Angeles (currently, the drink is only available in Canada via Amazon and major grocery retailers.) “Recently I went to one of my favourite restaurants near my house with some friends and took this exact can with me in my pocket,” he shares with a laugh, holding up a can of Atypique Mojito. “They asked me ‘what do you want to drink?’ and I said ‘just bring me a cup of ice.’” While the brand hopes to expand to the United States, AJ isn’t taking any chances: it’s officially been added to his tour rider — “I can’t wait to share this with my bandmates,” he says.
AJ McLean’s favourite Canadian foods
His go-to mocktail isn’t the only Canadian-exclusive AJ is obsessed with — “I do love my poutine” he says, sharing that his favourite spot is Montreal’s famed La Banquise, which specializes in the French-Canadian dish. It’s worth noting that he pronounces “La Banquise” with a perfect French-Canadian accent. As for his go-to Tim Hortons order? “They have a really good breakfast sandwich,” says the singer. Next on his list to try is Toronto’s Sotto Sotto, a popular Italian spot in Yorkville that’s known to be one of Drake’s favourites. It’s safe to say that the recommendation came directly from the source: the last time Backstreet Boys performed in Toronto, Drake was a special guest. “My bandmate Kevin went with his wife and kids, and said it was exquisite, so if I had more time, I would definitely go check it out,” says AJ. “I do love me some Italian, so next time,” he adds.
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AJ McLean’s signature dish
When he’s not on the road touring with the Backstreet Boys or filming his Canadian-produced television series Fashion Hero, AJ’s an avid home cook. “Everything in my house has got to be organic,” he shares, “I try to be as low-sugar, low-salt as possible.” His signature dish is an A5 Wagyu steak, seasoned to perfection with Himalayan pink salt, fresh cracked pepper and grilled on his hibachi: “it’s super easy to make and it’s so flavourful.”
Get our expert advice on How to Grill the Perfect Steak Every Time.
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