It’s been over two decades since Dream Street took the pop world by storm in the early 2000s. The boy band, known for hits like “It Happens Every Time” and “Sugar Rush”, built a passionate, die-hard fanbase that still remembers every lyric. Now, two of its members, Matt Ballinger and Greg Raposo, are stepping back into the spotlight together, blending nostalgia with new beginnings.
When asked what sparked this new chapter, Matt shared that the idea grew out of friendship and life changes. “We’ve gotten older… and Chris’s [Trousdale] passing brought everyone closer together,” Matt reflected. “Greg and I have always supported each other’s bands. It was actually Greg’s birthday show that everything just kind of happened.”
Greg added, “It was really natural. I had my birthday show, Matt performed with his band, and we were like, ‘Let’s do a couple of Dream Street songs for fun.’ That created a buzz naturally. Opportunities just started coming to us.”
Those opportunities led to two upcoming shows with O-Town at City Winery in Philly and New York, and another unannounced event that we promised we wouldn’t share with our readers until it’s official. While fans can expect beloved Dream Street songs in their setlists, Matt and Greg are also writing together for the first time. “We’ve never performed an original new song as the two of us,” Matt said. “But we’re in the process of writing, and we’re excited to eventually share that with fans.”
For now, their live shows are stripped back — an acoustic guitar and two vocals — but they’re building toward a fuller sound. Greg describes the vibe as “Jonas Brothers meets Dan + Shay”.
The two artists are clear about what they’ve missed most: performing for the fans. “That adrenaline rush and just connecting with an audience, it’s a very unique experience,” Matt says. Greg agreed, but noted the sacrifices that come with the profession, especially when they were younger. “It took time away from family and friends, but it was always worth it.” Even after all these years, the support hasn’t faded. “The reaction of fans really made us open our eyes,” Greg said. “People want to hear this, they want to be a part of it — and we do too.”
When asked about their favorite Dream Street memory, both recalled opening for Britney Spears — their first arena show. As for fun facts? Greg is a father of four with three dogs. Matt, despite living in New York, is a die-hard Philadelphia Eagles fan. While Jesse McCartney and Frankie Galasso aren’t part of the current performances, Matt and Greg say the door is always open for them to join in. “We’re singing Dream Street songs,” Matt explained. “It makes sense to keep the name.”
Greg is also working on a project called City Country, releasing a new song on the first Friday of every month, along with songwriting for other artists. Matt’s focus right now is all-in on Dream Street. “It really brings you back to feeling like a teenager again,” Greg said.
What would Greg and Matt like to say to the fans? “Keep your eyes open,” Matt urged. “We’re excited, and we don’t think the chapter is over yet.” Greg echoed the gratitude: “We wouldn’t be putting this time in without the support we’ve been getting. It’s special, and it makes us want to put more energy into it. I don’t know exactly what’s coming next, but we’re here for it.”
Dream Street’s return might not look exactly like it did in 2001 — less choreography, more guitars — but the heart is the same. And for the fans who’ve been waiting, that’s exactly what they’ve been hoping for.
Special Thanks to @farleyleslie, @jennngabriela, dalmatinka_o8, and ashkins88 for sending in your questions featured in this interview! Stay tuned to our Instagram @StarShineMag and upcoming Podcast on 8/26 to see video clips of Dream Street answering your questions! We’ll make sure to tag you!
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Sandy Lo is an author, blogger, journalist, and digital strategist. Her personal story is inspiring. Sandy started StarShine Magazine, an online publication in 2001, at the age of 18. She wrote her first novel in 2009, “Lost In You,” followed by the “Dream Catchers” Series. She was the first person ever to professionally interview Taylor Swift and has received personal endorsements for her books from members of boy bands Backstreet Boys and 98 Degrees.
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