Backstreet Boys file $100-million suit against label

The Backstreet Boys have filed a $100-million breach-of-contract suit against the Zomba Music Group, contending that the label procrastinated in releasing their latest record.

The delay, members claim, harmed their careers, cost them a $5-million contractual advance and prevented them from going out on tour, which could have generated “tens of millions of dollars.”

Filed in Manhattan’s U.S. District Court on Monday, the suit contends that Zomba, recently acquired by BMG for $2.74 billion, dragged its feet in approving new songs for the record, knowing that the advance was contingent on delivering the album by April 30.

The suit also alleges that Zomba focused instead on a solo project by group member Nick Carter, making him unavailable to complete the group’s album.

In addition to the $75 million, the Backstreet Boys are asking for termination of their recording deal with Jive Records, a division of Zomba, and an injunction against further interference from the label. A Zomba representative declined to comment, citing company policy.

-- Elaine Dutka