Jason Galasso Was Original Fifth Member Considered for *NSYNC

Jason Galasso, who is known for his connection to *NSYNC’s Joey Fatone from high school choir, was initially approached to be the fifth member of the boy band, prior to Lance Bass joining the group. Galasso discussed his experience on the podcast The Digital Get Down in 2019, revealing that he knew Justin Timberlake as well, having “used to kind of hang out with The Mickey Mouse Club” stars.

Galasso’s audition for the group took place after he performed Boyz II Men’s “End of the Road.” Reflecting on the moment, he noted, “I remember I’m like, ‘Dang, Justin’s young!’ But then I heard him sing, I’m like ‘Oh, it doesn’t matter how old he is, he can sing his butt off.'” At that time, Galasso was also involved in a three-man group called Unreal, which made his decision-making process more complex.

When Lou Pearlman approached Galasso with an opportunity for *NSYNC, he found the musical style presented was different, described as “European-style techno.” He traveled to Atlanta with Unreal to record a demo, which he felt was successful. Concurrently, *NSYNC was developing its image and planning a showcase for Disney’s Pleasure Island.

As both groups sought to sign Galasso, he took the competing contracts to a lawyer for review. He noted that while the deal with Unreal was typical, Pearlman’s contract for *NSYNC had stipulations that were unusual, including Pearlman being written in as a sixth member. Galasso ultimately chose to join the trio, Unreal, rather than *NSYNC.

Special Credits: Image Courtesy of Eonline