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The former music producer died at the age of 62, in prison.

The founder of legendary bands such as Backstreet Boys and NSync was sentenced to 25 years in prison after he was accused of running one of the largest and longest-running Ponzi schemes in history, leaving more than $300 million in debts.

Pearlman was incarcerated in 2008 and the cause of his death is still unknown.

“Maybe he wasn’t the best businessman, but probably, without his influence I wasn’t who I am today”, posted the former member of NSync Lance Bass on social media.

Inspired by the success he achieved with New Kids On The Block, Lou Pearlman decided to found a record label. During a casting, he selected five unknown artists, who later formed one of the most appreciated boy bands of all times.

Backstreet Boys sold over 130 million records worldwide, becoming the best-selling boy band in history.

NSync”was also Pearlman’s “product”. Although they were not able to beat Backstreet Boys success, Justin Timberlake’s former vocal group sold over 55 million records worldwide.

After the members from Backstreet Boys and NSync went separate ways, he started LFO, Take 5, Natural and O-Town and Britney Spears’s former vocal group Innosense.

“You can love him or you can hate him, but Lou offered us a starting point. What’s really shameful is the fact that he became overwhelmed by greed!”, posted American singer Ashley Parker Angel on her Twitter page.

During his last interview, Pearlman apologized for his actions.