Thursday, January 4, 2018
Drew Lachey Talks New 98 Degrees Music & How the Group is 'Appreciating Each Other More'
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After a successful run of Christmas shows this year, 98 Degrees may just stay in the holiday lane moving forward.
The quartet played 31 dates in support of its latest album, Let It Snow, aand the group's Drew Lachey tells Billboard, "maybe we'll make the holiday show an annual thing. The response has been fantastic and we love it, so, maybe a 98 Degrees Christmas show every year. Maybe it can become a holiday tradition for people." The album, meanwhile, was a way for Lachey and company to celebrate the 20th anniversary of 98 Degrees' first album.
"We were thinking 'How are we going to celebrate this year?' and the idea came up of doing a Christmas record," Lachey says. He calls the 1999 Christmas project one the group is very proud of, which lent itself to another 20 years later. "We figured we'd revisit the idea of a holiday record and figure out what we could do to make songs that people have heard a million times new and unique and signature to us, and we came with a project that, again, we're very proud of."
Let It Snow does feature the new song "Season Of Love," which tiptoes closer to topical than 98 Degrees typically gets. "We were sitting down to write a song," Lachey recalls, "and with the state of the world and country and everything being so divided, we came up with the idea of taking this generous, joyful time of year, where everybody is thinking about their neighbor, donating, being charitable, volunteering and all these great things -- why don’t we take this moment and this feeling in this month and stretch it all year 'round and embrace not just the Christmas season, but a whole season of love?"
He continues, "Nobody is happy right now with the direction things are going. I think if more people would try to make a conscious effort to have an open mind, an open heart and think more about other people, the world would be a better place. No song is going to change the world, but it might be able to remind people they can affect positive change in the world. If we can do that, it's something."
98 Degrees wrapped its holiday tour on Dec. 23, and the group members are contemplating what's next. "I think new music's a possibility," Lachey says of a non-holiday follow-up to 2013's 2.0, but it's clear that the group has no plans to go back on the kind of hiatus it took from 2003-2012.
"I think with age comes perspective and, honestly, we're having more fun and appreciating each other more now than we ever did in our twenties," says Lachey, who runs a performing arts non-profit organization at home in Cincinnati and works closely with the local film commission. The Dancing with the Stars champ is also hoping to return to Broadway after roles in Spamalot and Rent. "We've all got individual projects and aspirations we're trying to accomplish and achieve, but we've been able to find the balance where we're album to do our own thing and then come back and do [98 Degrees]. It makes us stronger and better performers when we do come back together."
Wednesday, January 3, 2018
Masterpass by Mastercard Powers 98 Degrees to Bring Holiday Cheer to Red Cross Volunteers
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Nick Lachey, Justin Jeffre, fan Christine Detris, Jeff Timmons and Drew Lachey of 98 Degrees tap Masterpass by Mastercard to surprise Red Cross volunteers at their offices with gifts and a holiday sing-a-long in New York City on November 27, 2017.
98 Degrees' Favorite Christmas Memory Together Is Definitely Not What You’d Expect — VIDEO
Getting into the spirit of the season, 98 Degrees shared their favorite Christmas memory, and it’s definitely not what you’d expect from the guys of the beloved '90s boy band. During an exclusive video promoting their new holiday album Let It Snow, the guys revealed what they remembered most about the sole Christmas they spent together in 1999. Just hearing them reminisce will totally take you back to all the joy of the '90s and early 2000s.
The 45-second clip opens with all four original members of the boy band standing by as Nick Lachey kicks things off by explaining their shared holiday experience, which occurred while they were performing on MTV's Fly2K tour in Paris. Fellow group member Jeff Timmons joins the convo, sharing that they spent the festive holiday watching the movie Fight Club together, as the quartet begins to jokingly make reference to one of the more widely remembered tidbits from the late '90s film.
To add more context to just how memorable things would become for the foursome amidst their European tour stop, Drew Lachey went on to remind his fellow group mates of the hurricane-like conditions that they endured from the violent European windstorms Lothar and Martin that hit while the group was visiting the French capital in December 1999.
It wasn't, by any means, your average holiday gathering, but the guys nonetheless managed to laugh it off, calling it a "very memorable" experience. It's exactly that type of attitude that has most likely helped to keep their relationship, seemingly both as friends and fellow group members in tact for the past two decades. Although, it's safe to say that a lot has probably changed in the years since their decade-long musical hiatus in 2002 as each member went on to explore other careers both inside and outside of the music industry.
Their most recent return to the entertainment scene is in celebration of their 20th anniversary, and it's accompanied by a tour in promotion of their latest Christmas project that was released on Oct. 20 of this year. The new album is the group's first release since their 2013 album 2.0 dropped more than four years ago. The seasonal offering also comes 18 years after their first holiday album, This Christmas was released in 1999. This Christmas became a huge success for 98 Degrees, selling over 1 million copies in the United States and earning them a Top 40 hit with the holiday single, "This Gift."
The Let It Snow tour kicked off on Nov. 24 and will continue right up until the weekend before Christmas which just in time for the band members to hopefully spend some time with their families for the holidays. Nick, who is married to actor Vanessa Lachey, welcomed a third child into his growing brood last December. Meanwhile his younger bro, Drew, has two children of his own, and Timmons, like Nick, also has a trio of undoubtedly adorable offspring. Band member Justin Jeffre, who prefers to keep a low profile when it comes to his personal life, appears to not have any children.
Total hotties, both then and now, this video of the band's time on the Fly2K tour is a blast from the past that's also worth checking out. It features an awesome group performance of their late '90s holiday hit "The Gift" that was filmed while amidst the European tour.
http://stilllovin98degrees.blogspot.com/2018/01/98-degrees-deliver-swoon-worthy-season.html
SOURCEHal BoedekerContact Reporter
Nick Lachey of 98 Degrees jokes about replacing Derek Hough as host of the Disney Parks Christmas specials opposite Julianne Hough, Derek’s sister.
“I think she knew the dancing was going to take a step backward with me involved and not Derek,” Lachey said in a phone interview.
After all, Derek is a six-time champ on “Dancing With the Stars.” Lachey was the fifth celebrity ejected on the ABC contest this season, which Jordan Fisher won.
“There’s an opening number — to call it dancing would be a disservice to real dancers,” Lachey said. “There is some movement.”
But Lachey described Julianne Hough as “awesome” and hard-working. “Everyone involved — the crew and production — it couldn’t have been smoother,” he said. “Obviously, Disney takes great care of you when you’re there.”
Lachey and Hough host two ABC specials from Walt Disney World. “The Wonderful World of Disney: Magical Holiday Celebration” airs at 9 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 30. “Disney Parks Magical Christmas Celebration” will play Christmas morning and feature 98 Degrees performing “Season of Love.” The performers at Disney World in both specials include Fifth Harmony, Ciara and Darius Rucker.
Lachey raved about the visit. “It had been a long, long time since I had been to Disney World,” he said. “I go to Disneyland pretty often. They’re so different. You forget how much bigger Disney World is, just how expansive it is. I guess one of coolest things was the Avatar ride at Animal Kingdom.”
His family — wife Vanessa Lachey and their three kids — stayed in Los Angeles. “It was a work trip,” he said. “If I’m lucky enough to do it again, I’ll definitely bring the family next time.”
Lachey is on the 31-stop 98 Degrees holiday tour, which plays Jacksonville on Nov. 30. The group includes brother Drew Lachey, who won season two of “DWTS.” Other stops are St. Petersburg on Dec. 8, Miami on Dec. 9, West Palm Beach on Dec. 10 and Sarasota on Dec. 11.
On the “DWTS” finale, Nick Lachey performed “Someone to Dance With,” which was inspired by his time on the show.
“I went into it not being a very confident or good dancer. I don’t think I necessarily came out of it a good dancer,” he said. “For me, dancing is not the comfort zone. I was really happy I did it.”
Spouse Vanessa was another celebrity this season, but Lachey said “it was more about a support system than competing.” She was out the week after he was ejected.
“We both knew going in who the better dancer was,” he said. “It was no shock to anybody, including us, that she lasted longer on the show.
98 Degrees Deliver Swoon Worthy ‘Season Of Love’ Performance For Thanksgiving Day Parade
]Handsome alert! 98 Degrees closed out the Thanksgiving Day Parade with their own original holiday song, ‘Season of Love’.
98 Degrees weren’t just the stars of HollywoodLife‘s Instagram story on Thanksgiving Day! They performed during the 2017 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade on Thursday, November 23 while riding on the Hallmark Channel float. While on the float, 98 Degrees performed “Season of Love”, an original song off of their Christmas album, Let It Snow, which is available everywhere now. Nick Lachey, 44, led the group with his vocals, and they harmonized down 34th Street in New York City as the parade made way for Santa Claus.
As mentioned, 98 Degrees took over HollywoodLife‘s Instagram story during their parade festivities. We had so much fun watching the guys — including Nick, Drew Lachey, Jeff Timmons and Justin Jeffre — prep for their big performance. They even ran into Jimmy Fallon and shared the moment on HL’s story! You’ll have to head over to HollywoodLife‘s Instagram to check out all of the EXCLUSIVE content, but make sure to do it fast — stories expire after 24 hours!
98 Degrees' 2017 Macy's Parade Performance Will Take You Right Back To The '90s
The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade is not only a great time to catch celebrities who typically stick to sunny Los Angeles sporting winter coats for the first time since New Year's Eve, but the musical performances can sometimes offer nostalgia alongside holiday cheer. This year, 98 Degrees performed a new song on the Macy's Parade and rightfully, Twitter was freaking out. It's just the kind of '90s moment we need right now.
Well, that's not all that Twitter was reacting to during the performance. Al Roker introduced the group as an "ageless boy band" — which resulted in some friendly ridicule. The four middle-aged men still performing with 98 Degrees aren't exactly immortal, but they still look good and the song sounded great. Their new Christmas single is called "Season of Love," not to be confused with "Seasons of Love" from the musical Rent and every high school theatre cast party you've ever attended. It's off the new 98 Degrees Holiday album Let It Snow that is available now and also includes classics like "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas," "Silent Night," and "What Child Is This."
They performed atop the Hallmark "Countdown to Christmas" advent calendar float too, which was not only a fun number connection, but kind of put the wholesome cherry on this heartwarming cake. What is Christmas if not for fond memories of boy bands and '90s bliss? Combined with appearances by the Goo Goo Dolls and Gwen Stefani, the parade this year was truly a Thanksgiving throwback to remember. Here's what folks had to say online.
They also performed "Because Of You" on Good Morning America if you want an additional dose of 1998. The reunion of the boy band, or "man band "or whatever you want to call it on the NBC broadcast hopefully started your holiday off with some much-needed reminiscing. Maybe you needed to remind your parents "which one" they were, if they ever cared to begin with — but it's important, OK?
If you're anxious for more, the group is going on a holiday tour with this new album. In an interview with Billboard, Nick Lachey said the album was inspired by touring with Ryan Cabrera. "Ryan would literally be in his dressing room playing Christmas music, all summer long," he said. " [We were] like, 'What's wrong with you?' He's like, 'It just makes you feel good, man!'" It's different from the group's first Christmas album, actually, because of the years that have passed. They have families now.
"Everybody kind of understands that Christmas is about spending time with your family and appreciating what you have, " said Drew Lachey in the same interview. "So for that to be part of our family and our musical legacy, it’s definitely very special."
At least NBC didn't call 98 Degrees "classic rock" like they did with Goo Goo Dolls, causing every '90s kid out there to start arranging their funeral plot. Nostalgia should be fun, not remind you that life is fleeting and we're all basically ancient now. 98 Degrees and "Season of Love" deliver all the right feels.
98 Degrees’ Nick Lachey, Justin Jeffre spotted at Sugar Factory at Foxwoods
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98 Degrees’ Nick Lachey and Justin Jeffre stopped by Sugar Factory after their holiday concert at Foxwoods’ Grand Theater on Friday night. Nick, Justin and friends had dinner and sampled Sugar Factory’s famous milkshake treats for dessert. After dinner, Nick and Justin hit up the confectionary store with some Sour Patch Kids and Famous Couture Pops. [Contributed/ Sugar Factory]
Nick and Drew Lachey Reveal the Crazy 98 Degrees Gifts They Never Wanted Grandma to See (Exclusive)
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by Jackie Willis - Entertainment Tonight
The guys of 98 Degrees are back and dishing to ET about how times have changed in the 20-plus years that they've been a boy band.
Nick and Drew Lachey, Justin Jeffre and Jeff Timmons all took the stage for a special performance at the Borgata Hotel Casino and Spa in Atlantic City, New Jersey, on Saturday night. Ahead of the concert, fans lined up outside the venue in festive attire in anticipation to see the heartthrobs sing some of their classic tunes as well as tracks from their new Christmas album, Let It Snow.
The pop stars opened up to ET about their avid fan base and some of the gifts that have made them blush over the years, especially before social media.
A fan gave us a flask the other day for our 20th anniversary," Jeff said excitedly. Nick quipped, "The best gift we've probably ever received."
As for the presents that have taken them aback, Jeff recalled, "We've signed a diaper before, a baby's diaper."
Nick chimed in, "For me, we were in Asia and this girl came up and gave me acne medication. ...It really cleared me up!"
Drew remembered a time when the group would receive some gifts that were not so family friendly!
"There was a time when fan mail would go to a P.O. Box and we had girls send, like, naked pictures there," he shared. "They didn't realize that our grandmother was the one that she was the one that opened the envelopes. So, it was like our mom and our grandmother opening up these envelopes that pictures of these naked [women] in them. It's crazy."
Nick joked to his brother, "Mom forwarded them onto me!"
Years later with eight kids between them -- Nick has three, Drew has two and Jeff has three -- the men of 98 Degrees are definitely more family oriented. During Saturday's show, Jeff even brought his youngest daughter, Ariahuna, onstage to celebrate her birthday.
Each dad shared with ET the first 98 Degrees song they ever played for their kids, with Jeff noting that his oldest daughter, Alyssa, was first introduced to their music when she had a cameo in their 2000 music video for their song, "My Everything." He also gushed that Ariahuna "knows every word" of their Let It Snow album.
Meanwhile, in Nick and wife Vanessa Lachey's family, they jam out to a '90s tune from the boy band. "For my kids, it was 'Because of You,' which they call the 'Sunshine Song,'" Nick said. "It's a little more upbeat, it's fun and they like to it while they swing on the swing set."
As for Drew, his 7-year-old son, Hudson, was first introduced to his dad's music when he saw them perform on the road a few years back. "They like to hear the ones that they can pick out my voice on," he noted.
The guys are now back on tour after Nick recently wrapped up his stint on Dancing With the Stars, and while he didn't win, his bandmates say he's better for it. "A lot more humble," Justin joked.
"I think, if anything, it was a new experience and you learn from every experience you do -- good, bad, or ugly," Drew, 41, said of his older brother. "It's just one more thing he can check off the list."
Nick, 44, insisted, "This may come as a shock to people, I did not go into this expecting to win. So, it wasn't this grand disappointment when it didn't happen, because I know I'm not a very good dancer."
Regardless, Nick had the support of his fellow boy band members, who were adamant that they "of course" voted for him while he was competing on the show.
It's certainly been a busy year for 98 Degrees, and they're only just getting started. "We're back home just in time for Santa to come," Drew said, noting that they have shows up until Christmas Eve. "We have little kids, so we're definitely in the thick of Santa Claus."
For more with 98 Degrees, check out another exclusive interview where they reflect on the debut of their first album 20 years ago.
Dancing with the Stars Winner Drew Lachey Teases Brother Nick on His Scores: 'I Never Got 6s!'
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Nothing like a little sibling rivalry!
Unlike his younger brother Drew, Nick Lachey‘s Dancing with the Stars journey didn’t end with a Mirrorball Trophy — and of course, that led to a little good-hearted teasing when PEOPLE Now caught up with the brothers and their reunited boy band, 98 Degrees.
“It was a lot of fun,” said Nick, 44, who was eliminated on week 4 of the most recent season of the ABC dance competition series.
“It was a lot of work — it was lot more work than I actually thought going into it,” he confessed. “It’s physically taxing, but also just mentally and emotionally exhausting. But it was definitely a challenge that I’m glad I took on. No regrets at all.”
Drew — who won season 2 of the series in 2006 — said he thought his brother “did great.”
“I just tried to be encouraging,” said Drew, 41. “He improved every week, which is what you want to see. I mean, you have people that come in there and they’re great week 1, and they’re still great week 9, 10, whatever. But you could definitely see improvement with [Nick].”
“He’d see my scores and I’d get the text — ‘How you doing?’ ” said Nick with a laugh.
“He was like, ‘What’d you do when you got 6s?’ ” recalled Drew. “I was like, ‘I don’t know — I never got 6s!’ ”
“I think I got some of yours — they were 9s, they just had them upside down,” joked Nick. “They were confused!
Of course, Nick was also up against his wife Vanessa, and Drew revealed that he initially split his votes each week between his brother and his sister-in-law — until it “became apparent” that Nick needed them more.
“What?! No wonder I went down,” said Nick, feigning outrage.
“Vanessa started to have pity, too,” he added. “She was like, ‘Everybody, just give all your votes to Nick. He needs them more than me.’ I didn’t fight it at all — I was like, ‘Yes, bring them!’ “
Drew Lachey Was "Very Uplifting and Supportive" to Nick During His 'DWTS' Stint
Now this is brotherly love! In an exclusive interview with Closer Weekly, 98° band mates Drew Lachey and Nick Lachey discussed their time on ABC's reality competition series Dancing With the Stars. Fans may recall Drew took home the Mirrorball Trophy during Season 2, and Nick just finished competing on Season 25.
When asked if Drew gave Nick any advice when it came to his stint on the show, he candidly asked his brother, "Did I?" The father-of-three was quick to confirm that of course Drew helped him out. "Well you know, move your hips, lower your shoulders back," Nick shared. "He was very uplifting and supportive." Drew also added, "I would text him and be like, 'Don't worry about this week. Come back next week, hit the reset button.'" How sweet!
Closer Weekly spoke with 98° band mates Nick, Drew, Jeff Timmons, and Justin Jeffre in NYC earlier this week as they teamed up with Masterpass by Mastercard to surprise employees and volunteers over at the Red Cross with a performance, to thank them for all the hard work they've been doing to benefit Hurricane Disaster Relief efforts. "This opportunity came along where we could go and show our appreciation and respect for the Red Cross and what they do and it kind of became a no-brainer," they stated. "Obviously, we support and respect everything they've been able to accomplish in helping, whether it's Puerto Rico or Carribean or Houston. It's been a tough, trying year for them so for us to be able to go and show a little bit of appreciation and show them that their work is valued, was something that was very gratifying for us to be able to do."
The Red Cross family was pleasantly surprised to hear 98° sing fun holiday carols, according to the guys — "If they weren't, they faked it really well!" they joked.
Tuesday, January 2, 2018
Nick Lachey Talks 98 Degrees Holiday Tour, Christmas Traditions With His Family and More
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By Emily Longeretta
Nick Lachey is definitely in the festive spirit. Currently on a holiday tour with 98 Degrees, the father of three spoke to Us Weeklyexclusively about his holiday plans with wife Vanessa and their family, being on the road again and the new Christmas song that he’s hoping will be a classic all year round.
Us Weekly: 98 Degrees headlined the My2K Tour last year with some other acts, but this will be your first solo tour in 16 years. It must be very different now!
Nick Lachey: Well, it’s a little bit different because it’s a holiday tour. We’re singing a lot of holiday songs — a lot of songs from our new album, Let It Snow and a lot of songs from This Christmas from 1999. It’s a very different take on a show for us. We’ll also be performing the hits from the past albums as well, but it’s holiday-themed. The response has been awesome; people seem to love it.
Nick Lachey: Well, it’s a little bit different because it’s a holiday tour. We’re singing a lot of holiday songs — a lot of songs from our new album, Let It Snow and a lot of songs from This Christmas from 1999. It’s a very different take on a show for us. We’ll also be performing the hits from the past albums as well, but it’s holiday-themed. The response has been awesome; people seem to love it.
Us: Most of you are fathers now with families. It must be so different on tour versus when you were kids!
NL: In some ways, I think we have more fun with it now. I think we appreciate it more now than we did back in the old days where you’re in this whirlwind rollercoaster ride. We have a lot more perspective now. We appreciate the opportunity to do it. It is hard when you have kids and you have to be away from them. We have to try to find that balance between doing what you do for a living and spending time at home. We’re not the only people who have to deal with that and their jobs. You do the best you can. Vanessa was there for opening night of the tour and the kids will see it when we go out to the West Coast.
NL: In some ways, I think we have more fun with it now. I think we appreciate it more now than we did back in the old days where you’re in this whirlwind rollercoaster ride. We have a lot more perspective now. We appreciate the opportunity to do it. It is hard when you have kids and you have to be away from them. We have to try to find that balance between doing what you do for a living and spending time at home. We’re not the only people who have to deal with that and their jobs. You do the best you can. Vanessa was there for opening night of the tour and the kids will see it when we go out to the West Coast.
Us: At the beginning of Dancing With the Stars, you said you never were good at dancing and you’ve never liked it. Do you think you’re better now?
NL: Not at all. The show did nothing to change my ability! It’s one of those things where, again, people think, “Oh you’re in a boy band, you know how to dance and you love to dance.” I’ve always been terrified of dancing. It’s never something I’ve felt comfortable with. It’s still not something I feel comfortable with. I definitely loved the challenge of the show and I learned a lot about perseverance and pushing through. Some of us can dance. Some can’t. It’s just not my thing. At the same time, I’m so glad I did it because it was a personal life challenge that I fully endorse people taking on. No regrets, but it has not changed much on my perspective of dancing. I still don’t like it and I’m still not good at it! I’m definitely not the guy getting out there at a wedding reception and free-styling it.
NL: Not at all. The show did nothing to change my ability! It’s one of those things where, again, people think, “Oh you’re in a boy band, you know how to dance and you love to dance.” I’ve always been terrified of dancing. It’s never something I’ve felt comfortable with. It’s still not something I feel comfortable with. I definitely loved the challenge of the show and I learned a lot about perseverance and pushing through. Some of us can dance. Some can’t. It’s just not my thing. At the same time, I’m so glad I did it because it was a personal life challenge that I fully endorse people taking on. No regrets, but it has not changed much on my perspective of dancing. I still don’t like it and I’m still not good at it! I’m definitely not the guy getting out there at a wedding reception and free-styling it.
Us: It still looks good! Anyway along with the tour, you guys dropped Let It Snow! Your last holiday album, This Christmas, was such a hit. Did you feel the pressure when making a new one?
NL: We’re very proud of the first one. We have a lot of people that say it’s their favorite holiday album. That’s what motivated us to do another one. But, yeah, that comes with pressure — you’ve got to live up to the exception of what the first one delivered. That’s a good pressure though. We feel like we created another timeless holiday record. It’s a special time of year and it’s nice to be a part of people’s traditions.
NL: We’re very proud of the first one. We have a lot of people that say it’s their favorite holiday album. That’s what motivated us to do another one. But, yeah, that comes with pressure — you’ve got to live up to the exception of what the first one delivered. That’s a good pressure though. We feel like we created another timeless holiday record. It’s a special time of year and it’s nice to be a part of people’s traditions.
Us: And there’s an original on there, “Season of Love.” What inspired that song?
NL: We wanted to write at least one song. We wanted a song about the season of love not just being confined to Christmastime or to the holidays. This can be a season that lasts all year round. We’re at a time now where there’s so much divisiveness and hate and anger and we wanted to address that in a way and say, “Hey, let’s get everyone feeling good and being nice to each other and being compassionate. Let’s make that a year-round thing.”
NL: We wanted to write at least one song. We wanted a song about the season of love not just being confined to Christmastime or to the holidays. This can be a season that lasts all year round. We’re at a time now where there’s so much divisiveness and hate and anger and we wanted to address that in a way and say, “Hey, let’s get everyone feeling good and being nice to each other and being compassionate. Let’s make that a year-round thing.”
Us: Speaking of the holidays, what’s Christmas like in the Lachey household?
NL: It’s all about the kids! We go down in our matching pajamas, which is oh so cute. Vanessa and I have coffee and watch the kids get into their presents from Santa. Some are wrapped, some are not. The ones from us are wrapped, thrones from Santa are unwrapped. It’s always fun to watch them get into it then fight over their toys.
NL: It’s all about the kids! We go down in our matching pajamas, which is oh so cute. Vanessa and I have coffee and watch the kids get into their presents from Santa. Some are wrapped, some are not. The ones from us are wrapped, thrones from Santa are unwrapped. It’s always fun to watch them get into it then fight over their toys.
Us: Do you guys have a lot of traditions when it comes to the holidays?
NL: Well, there’s Santa and Elf on the Shelf to make sure everything’s going right until Santa gets there! You have a lot of weapons at your disposal to keep your kids in line! Between Santa and the Elf on the Shelf, they’re not acting up for the month of December. Elf on the Shelf is powerful! You just have to keep moving him.
NL: Well, there’s Santa and Elf on the Shelf to make sure everything’s going right until Santa gets there! You have a lot of weapons at your disposal to keep your kids in line! Between Santa and the Elf on the Shelf, they’re not acting up for the month of December. Elf on the Shelf is powerful! You just have to keep moving him.
Us: Your son was just one day old last Christmas so this is your first real holiday with him! What are the plans for the birthday/Christmas combo?
NL: Good question! We’ve never had to do the combo before! You want them to feel special — feel like they have both birthday and Christmas. So we’re just going to carve out a little time for each! We’ll figure it out. Vanessa’s going to probably take the lead on planning the first birthday.
NL: Good question! We’ve never had to do the combo before! You want them to feel special — feel like they have both birthday and Christmas. So we’re just going to carve out a little time for each! We’ll figure it out. Vanessa’s going to probably take the lead on planning the first birthday.
98 Degrees Celebrate Their 20th Anniversary With a Christmas Album – Watch!
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By Mandie DeCamp
We do cherish you, 98 Degrees! The boy band is turning 20 this year and to celebrate – they’re giving Us all a holiday gift – a new Christmas album and a tour. Watch the video above to see how they’re celebrating the most wonderful time of the year!
“We wanted to do something to celebrate this milestone. Our first Christmas album, which came out 18 or 19 years ago is one that we’re extremely proud of. It’s kind of our most well-rounded album, one that’s kind of timeless,” Drew Lachey told Us. “So we figured why not step up on that level and do something to try and match that, if not beat that. And we feel like we really accomplish that with this album.”
The album, Let It Snow, features holiday classics like “Mary, Did You Know?” and “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” but also features an original tune from the guys called “Season of Love.”
When asked if their kids listen to their new music, Nick Lacheyresponded, “They better!” while his brother Drew had a different opinion. “Kind of nonstop. It gets kind of annoying actually. It’s like ‘Okay, let’s put something else on now!’”
Not only is the group busy with their tour and new album, but they were also in New York surprising deserving American Cross workers with presents and Christmas carols on behalf of Masterpass. Watch the video below to see how the surprise went!
Vanessa Lachey spills on holiday traditions, hostessing tips, and dancing to the 98 Degrees' Christmas album
Those who watched the recent season of Dancing With the Stars know that Vanessa Lachey has moves in the ballroom, but did you also know that she’s one fabulous hostess? Vanessa and her husband, Nick Lachey, have a full house with their three kids, Camden, 5, Brooklyn, 2, and Phoenix, who turns 1 on Christmas Eve, but they still find time to get in the holiday spirit with friends and family.
The television personality is now partnering with Baileys Original Irish Cream, and talked with Yahoo Lifestyle about her signature holiday recipe, Holly-Day Hot Chocolate, go-to entertaining tips, and holiday traditions. (Hint: The 98 Degrees Christmas albums are on blast.)
Yahoo: Why did you want to be part of this campaign?Vanessa Lachey: I have always enjoyed the holiday season, and Baileys Irish Cream is one of our staples for this time of year. When I was asked about my favorite recipe, I couldn’t give just one, so when I was asked to be a part of the 31 Days of Baileys campaign, I got excited to share what I love and learn new recipes with Baileys.
As a hostess, how do you ensure that your guests have a good time but enjoy responsibly?I always make sure to tell my guests there will be lots of food and cocktails, so drive responsibly. I suggest getting a ride or carpooling. Also, I always make sure to have plenty of refreshing flavored water at the bar. It makes for fun hydration.
You and Nick have been together for several years now, so how have your holiday celebrations changed and evolved over the years?After our first year celebrating together and struggling with gifts, we decided to take a trip in lieu of gifts. It used to be a week away at some tropical destination. Now, with three kids, it’s a night locally, but we still make sure to go and make time for each other.
How often do you play the old 98 Degrees Christmas album, and what’s your favorite song? Do your older kids know it’s their dad singing?We listen to it multiple times a day! And the kids know all the words. Our favorite song to sing and dance together to is “Season of Love.” We heard it play in the car on the radio, and we all screamed and then started singing. It was so fun! Now when it plays in the house, Cam says, “Daddy’s on the radio!”
Any tips for how to deal with difficult or uncomfortable family situations while entertaining? Are politics a “no” in your household when inviting friends and family over?It’s hard, but I always say the more the merrier! We only have people in our home who are respectful of our family and our house, so if they bring someone, they are always respectful as well. Plus, it makes for lots of fun new stories!
What are your favorite holiday traditions from when you were a kid, and how do they compare to ones you’re creating with your family now?As a kid, we used to open one gift on Christmas Eve. Unfortunately, some years, as I got older, we ended up opening all our gifts! When Nick and I started dating, we always made the day after Thanksgiving our day to decorate for Christmas. We still do it to this day, and it’s fun to kick off the season with a bang! The tree, music, lights, and cocktails! The kids help decorate, and I like the feeling it gives them of being a part of it all.
How do you balance work life and family during the holidays?Nick and I are always juggling different work schedules, and now, three kids. We try and always put our family first in decision making and then everything else falls into place. At the end of the day, if we chose family over something else, it’s a happy ending.
Holiday pounds are a real thing: Any tricks for our readers about how to indulge without going overboard?I always try and live a balanced lifestyle, but during the holidays, I love to enjoy and indulge a bit! It’s one of my favorite times of year, and I love to treat my friends and family to delicious sweet treats when I’m entertaining. I always like to have a signature drink to offer to everyone, and nothing says indulgence and holidays better than something made with Baileys Original Irish Cream!
What is your diet and fitness routine during this time of year, and does it vary during the holidays?I think balance is always key. This being one of my favorite times of year to indulge, I don’t focus too much on a specific routine, but it’s nice to be active, especially with three kiddos. So, during the day, we find fun activities and things that get us outdoors. Even if it’s hanging out in the driveway at sunset on scooters or with our sports balls, while Nick and I enjoy a holiday cocktail.
Find Vanessa’s recipe for her Holly-Day Hot Chocolate below:
Ingredients:2 oz. Baileys Original Irish Cream
1 oz. hazelnut and pomegranate puree
2 oz. hot chocolate (brewed with mint leaves and white and milk chocolate and cinnamon)
Chocolate sauce for rim
Whipped cream, nutmeg, cinnamon sticks, mint leaves and pomegranate seeds for garnish
1 oz. hazelnut and pomegranate puree
2 oz. hot chocolate (brewed with mint leaves and white and milk chocolate and cinnamon)
Chocolate sauce for rim
Whipped cream, nutmeg, cinnamon sticks, mint leaves and pomegranate seeds for garnish
Preparation:Combine Baileys Original Irish Cream, hazelnut and pomegranate puree, and hot chocolate in a cocktail shaker and give a good shake.
Strain liquid into a mug rimmed with chocolate sauce.
Top with whipped cream, a sprinkle of nutmeg and cinnamon sticks.
Add mint leaves and pomegranate seeds to resemble holly, for that extra festive touch, and enjoy!
Strain liquid into a mug rimmed with chocolate sauce.
Top with whipped cream, a sprinkle of nutmeg and cinnamon sticks.
Add mint leaves and pomegranate seeds to resemble holly, for that extra festive touch, and enjoy!
Ideal serve: Large coffee mug
98 Degrees brings Christmas to The Lerner
98 Degrees fans probably don’t need their parents to drive them to concerts now, as they did back at the height of the boy band’s popularity during the early 2000s.
“Like we have, they’ve gotten a little bit older. Then, they were overwhelmingly teenagers, and now they are overwhelmingly grown women, for the most part,” band member Justin Jeffre says in a phone interview from Lemoore, Calif., several hours before the group’s show at the Tachi Palace Casino.
“Of course, they had fun back then, but nowadays, they can have some drinks and really let loose,” he says. “Its still kind of like going back in time for them just because when you listen to a group that you grew up listening to, the music really takes you back to those times and those memories.”
The boy band, whose images adorned the pages of teen magazines during the early 2000s, performs Wednesday at Elkhart’s Lerner Theatre as part of its 31-date Christmas tour.
“We’d never done a Christmas tour before and having another Christmas CD, having two to pull from, we now have enough Christmas material to do a full-on Christmas show,” Jeffre says. “Of course, we still do the hits, but it’s a whole lot of Christmas.”
The band — brothers Nick and Drew Lachey, Jeff Timmons, and Jeffre — decided to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the release of its self-titled debut album by recording what would be its second Christmas album, “Let It Snow,” which it released in October.
“I think, collectively, we felt like our favorite CD as a group was our first Christmas CD, ‘This Christmas’” Jeffre says. “It had been 18 years since we had done that, and Christmas is such a special time.”
The Christmas CD, he says, also is something that not only their female fans will enjoy.
“I mean, the other guys have kids and stuff, so we kind of wanted to create something for the families, and our fans really loved the Christmas CD,” he says. “It kind of hit a wider demographic. We would have a lot of guys that would come up to us and be like, ‘Hey, I really wasn’t a fan of you guys, but my daughter was. But every year we listen to that Christmas CD and think it’s great.’”
Noting that there is a lot of good Christmas music out there, Jeffre lists albums by Stevie Wonder, Boyz II Men and Take 6 as some of his favorites to listen to during the holiday season. On “Let It Snow,” 98 Degrees actually covers Wonder’s “What Christmas Means to Me.”
“Mostly, I just kind of listen to the radio,” he says. “You don’t have to go searching too hard to listen to Christmas music around the holidays.”
Having two Christmas albums to pull material from, Jeffre explains what fans going to Wednesday’s concert should expect.
“Well, this concert is a little bit more theatrical than any other show we have done before,” he says. “Typically, we would just do a pop concert, but this, you know, there’s an intermission, which is a little bit different.”
In addition to a “whole lot of Christmas songs,” Jeffre says, fans will hear the band’s hits sprinkled throughout the set list.
“We have enough material that we take people on a journey,” he says “There’s definitely some uptempo, a rock part of the show, and then we … do some a cappella and just kind of mix it up a little.”
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