Still turning up the heat

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Let's be honest: if you came of age in the late '90s like yours truly, there's a good chance a love song or two from 98 Degrees was playing in the background of your life. Maybe you memorized the lyrics to "Because of You" or slow-danced awkwardly to "I Do (Cherish You)" at a high school prom. Or perhaps you caught glimpses of "Total Request Live" or "TRL" (the MTV countdown show that aired in bits and pieces on cable, remember?) and knew Nick Lachey, Drew Lachey, Jeff Timmons, and Justin Jeffre as the more soulful, vocal-heavy boy band on the scene. You know — less choreo, more harmony, but maximum feels.

Today, nearly three decades later, all four original members are still together, still touring, and — lucky for us — still showing Manila the love.

Ahead of their May 30 concert at the Mall of Asia Arena, the quartet met the Philippine press over Zoom, where The T-Zone had a turn to ask them a few questions. And if the sheer warmth of their responses is any indication, the fans are in for something totally heartfelt come the big night.

When asked how they've managed to keep their original lineup intact all these years, Nick responded instantly. "We genuinely like each other," he declared. "That's the key. We're friends, not just business partners. That friendship has always been the foundation."

Jeff added, "We've been through everything — becoming fathers, getting married, starting other careers — and we've always stayed close. There's a bond that goes beyond music."

98 Degrees’ (from left) Drew Lachey, Justin Jeffre, Nick Lachey, and Jeff Timmons. PHOTO FROM VAA LIVE

Drew echoed the sentiment, saying, "It's not always easy [to stay together], especially in this industry. But we've learned to communicate, to respect each other's space, and most importantly, to keep showing up for each other."

All four members expressed a real sense of reflection throughout the conversation, more so with T-Zone's follow-up on how they feel being called icons among the global generation of famous boy bands. All men now, of course, their reactions were a mix of humility and amusement.

"We never set out to be icons," Drew admitted with a laugh. "We just wanted to sing songs that meant something."

"It's surreal," Justin added. "To still be doing this and to know that our music has stood the test of time. It's the kind of thing you don't really plan for. You just feel incredibly grateful."

"It's a big word, 'icon,'" Nick said and paused for thought. "But if being called that means we've had a lasting connection with fans, especially here in the Philippines, then it's a huge honor."

That connection to the Philippines, in fact, runs deeper than just fan enthusiasm. Jeff — who surprisingly revealed during the Zoom con that one of his brothers was actually born in Subic while their father was stationed there with the US military — acknowledged, "To be honest, this is where we really felt famous for the first time. The love and support we received here over 20 year ago — it was overwhelming. We'll never forget it."

"So when we get there for the concert, it will be like coming home in a weird, wonderful way," he touchingly added.

Meanwhile, the same Zoom con revealed another interesting fact. Apparently, for Drew, the Filipino bond is even more intimate. "My wife is half Filipina," he shared proudly. "She grew up with Filipino food, culture, and family, so for me, performing here feels extra meaningful. It's a part of my family now, too."

He added, "My kids are a quarter Filipino, so this is a connection I really want them to understand and appreciate. It's not just another stop on the tour — this one's personal."

When asked what fans can expect from their upcoming Manila show, the band promised the classics, yes — but also a little something more.

"We're bringing all the hits," said Jeff. "But we've also updated some arrangements and added a few moments that we think the fans are going to love."

Nick teased, "Let's just say there'll be moments when we step away from the nostalgia and do something fresh — but still very us."

In fact, along with chart-toppers like "The Hardest Thing" and "My Everything," the group will also be performing tracks from their newer releases, including the smooth mid-tempo ballad "Where Do You Wanna Go," which channels their signature harmonies into a more modern, R&B-laced vibe, and "Invisible Man 2024," a reflective reimagining of their debut hit.

"We're evolving with the times," Jeff explained, "but we never forget who we are at our core — four guys who love to sing."

So, with the band's unmistakable chemistry, emotional vocals, and genuine affection for their Filipino fans, this one-night-only event is a must — child of the '90s or not.

Because some love songs don't age — and neither do the artists who sing them with heart, harmony and heat.