Backstreet Boy quits

80's mega-boy-band The Backstreet Boys lost one of its members today when 33-year-old Kevin Richardson quit the band.

"After 13 years of what can only be described as a dream come true, I have decided that it is time to leave the Backstreet Boys," Richardson said in a release posted on the band's website. "It was a very tough decision for me but one that was necessary in order to move on with the next chapter of my life."

Richardson did not specify what the "next chapter" in his life is. The rest of the group said they had no plans to replace Richardson. They also planned to enter the studio to work on an album set for release later in the year.

"Earlier this year, after much soul searching, Kevin Richardson came to us and told us that he had decided to leave the group and pursue other interests. He gave his blessing to continue the music without him," read a statement from the group.. "We have no intention of replacing Kevin, and the door will always be open for him to return to the Backstreet Boys. We wish him the all the best in his future endeavors.