Attorneys for Backstreet Boys have sent a letter to Jive Records founder Clive Calder, claiming the label is in breach of contract and, therefore, the multi-platinum act is no longer on the label.

The legal action follows the similarly surprising announcement that 'N Sync intends to move from RCA to Jive, which is also home to Britney Spears. As reported by Billboard's Melinda Newman, Backstreet Boys were understood to be upset by the prospect of 'N Sync joining them on the Jive roster. The Boys reportedly left their management company last year in part because their managers represented 'N Sync as well.

While acknowledging that the group is upset about 'N Sync's move to Jive, that is not the only reason for Backstreet Boys' discontent, according to a source. "They're tired of being exploited. Their unhappiness [with the label] is rooted in their feeling of betrayal and deceit," says the source.

Jive and Backstreet Boys' management company declined to comment.

Backstreet Boys latest set, "Millennium," is certified for sales of 7 million copies by the RIAA. This week, the album is No. 2 on The Billboard 200.

-- Melinda Newman, L.A.

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