Westlife celebrates 25 years of music, touring, and family life

Westlife, the boy band that defined a generation in the UK and Ireland, is marking 25 years of success with a new single, ‘Chariot’, an album coming in February, and an upcoming world tour. The band’s journey began in the late 1990s, formed by manager Louis Walsh, and has since seen them achieve record-breaking success, including joint third place for the most UK number-one singles in history. Despite challenges along the way, including the departure of Brian McFadden in 2004, the remaining members – Shane Filan, Mark Feehily, Nicky Byrne, and Kian Egan – have continued to thrive. Reflecting on their enduring success, they share the joy they feel performing for fans, some of whom have been with them from the beginning. The band also discusses their families, emphasizing their efforts to keep their children grounded despite their fame. Notably, Westlife’s popularity has extended beyond their loyal fans, with famous artists like Ed Sheeran and Tom Grennan citing their music as an inspiration. The group’s iconic use of stools during performances has become just as famous as their music, a quirky legacy stemming from their early dance limitations. Their 25th-anniversary tour will kick off in Dublin in September 2026, continuing across Europe, marking a huge milestone in their long-lasting career.