In a career spanning more than three decades, the Backstreet Boys have worn many musical hats — from ’90s teen pop heartthrobs to global touring veterans with a deep catalog of emotional, finely crafted songs. But few of their works strike as honest and introspective as “Show ‘Em (What You’re Made Of),” released in 2013 as the second single from their eighth studio album, In a World Like This.
Co-written by Kevin Richardson and AJ McLean alongside songwriters Morgan Taylor Reid and Mika Guillory, the song emerged during a pivotal time for the group. Kevin had rejoined the band after a six-year hiatus, and the group was celebrating its 20th anniversary. Rather than aiming for a radio-friendly pop anthem, they chose to offer something more vulnerable — a message of strength, self-worth, and resilience, wrapped in a gentle musical arrangement.
From the first notes, “Show ‘Em” signals a different kind of intention. It opens with quiet piano chords and a subdued, almost whispered vocal. There’s no pretense here — just five voices, matured by life, standing together and saying: “You gotta stand for something, even if you stand alone.” These words resonate especially deeply coming from artists who have weathered the pressures of fame, personal loss, and reinvention. The song doesn’t lecture; it encourages with grace.
The chorus — “Show ’em what you’re made of / Show ’em that you’re strong / Show ’em that you know where you belong” — is at once a personal mantra and a universal call. It’s aimed at the listener, but also at themselves, their children, and anyone facing doubt. In interviews, Kevin Richardson revealed that he wrote the song with his young son in mind, hoping to give him a message of encouragement he could carry into adulthood. That origin gives the song its emotional heartbeat — it’s not crafted for charts or accolades, but as a legacy of hope.
Musically, the track is minimalist. It forgoes overproduction in favor of natural harmonies and soft instrumentation, a choice that mirrors the song’s theme: simplicity, authenticity, and courage. Each member has a moment to shine vocally, yet the blend is seamless — a testament to their long-standing chemistry and shared musical intuition.
The music video, released in 2013, reinforces the raw honesty of the song. Shot in stark lighting with no flashy effects, it features the members of the group standing bare-chested against a black background, symbolizing vulnerability, transparency, and unity. It’s a quiet visual, but powerful — a contrast to the glitter of their earlier image, and a bold declaration of who they’ve become.
“Show ‘Em (What You’re Made Of)” may not have reached the commercial peaks of earlier Backstreet Boys hits, but its emotional depth and timeless message have made it a cherished song among fans — especially those who have grown alongside the band. It’s a reminder that pop music, when created from a place of truth, can be a force for healing and empowerment.
In live performances, this track often receives some of the most heartfelt audience responses. Perhaps that’s because, no matter the generation, everyone reaches a moment in life where they need to hear: You’re enough. You’re strong. Show them who you really are.