Westlife Goes On - August 2006

By JOJO P. PANALIGAN

Nicky Byrne of famed boy band Westlife clarifies that recent developments in his group do not indicate an impending break up.


"As long as we still enjoy being in Westlife, we’ll hold on to it," says he during a recent phone interview. "Of course, we eventually will part ways but not for a long, long time."

Speculations about Westlife disbanding started circulating when ex-member Brian McFadden released a solo album and still-member Mark Feehilly came out of the closet around the time their latest album "Face To Face" under Sony BMG Music Entertainment was expected to hit shelves but did not.

"The only reason our new album took time to get released is because we wanted to make sure we have got the best materials that top the last CD," says Nicky. "Seven years in the business can be tiring so we have to make sure that songs we do now are ones we really enjoy. After all, we have to sing them night after night!"

He adds: "Besides, the longer an act stays the more important coming up with hit songs is so people do not lose interest."

The breakthrough song that told Westlife they have an album worth making is "You Raised Me Up," a remake. When asked if they got the idea of doing the song from hearing the version of Secret Garden or Josh Groban, Nicky avers.

"The song was proposed to us by our manager, Lou Walsh," says Nicky. "The song was written by an Irish guy and has been recorded at least a hundred times. That means that it’s as much as our song as it is Josh Groban’s or Secret Garden’s."

Another remake in "Face To Face" sees Westlife paired with a diva. "When You Tell Me That You Love Me" features legendary songstress Diana Ross.

In a previous album, Westlife had collaborated on a remake of "Against All Odds" with Mariah Carey.

"We both enjoyed working with them and though they both were diva-ish, it wasn’t something that got in the way of good working relationship. At the end of the day, even divas are normal people who like to talk about regular things like world affairs, family and music."

Nicky says that they got Diana involved when their manager Lou met her at a party. Lou opened the idea of Diana working with Westlife on a track to her which the former agreed to easily because her daughter is a fan of the group.

"We didn’t get to record together, though, as she was in Los Angeles while we were in London. We only got to meet her when we shot the video for the song," says Nicky.

Was Westlife worried when they heard that "American Idol" had also put out a version of the song?

"No. I, for one, didn’t even know that they did," he says.

As for other members striking out solo eventually, Nicky thinks the possibility is slim.

"The way I look at it, we have been extremely successful together and as history has proven several times, doing it solo after coming from such success does not ensure the same. If ever we decide to walk out of Westlife, we’ll make sure we do it with our heads held high and with no falling out among us," says Nicky.

He explains: "Brian left because he said it was time for him to move on. He was no longer connecting with the group and was, in his words, being complacent. It’s fine. We all are still very good friends and have remained in touch."

When he does leave Westlife, Nicky will pursue an acting career.

"I actually have taken up acting lessons in New York during our last vacation. It was fun letting myself out and making lots of good friends. Yeah, movies I’d like to do next," he says.

We asked Nicky to assess the evolution of Westlife and he puts it straightforwardly.

"Vocally, we have matured a lot especially after doing the Sinatra-tribute album, ‘Allow Us To Be Frank.’ I’d also like to think that the songs are of the same level; adhering to the same high standards. Considering that we don’t write our own songs, we have been extremely lucky to chance by good ones consistently."

What does he remember of Manila?

"Manila is crazy, if not a bit manic, that’s why we always enjoy being there. The fans at the airport, the energy fans give us during the shows….we always look forward to coming back," Nicky ends.

"Westlife Face to Face in Manila" happens on Sept. 4 at the Araneta Coliseum. Among their hit songs are "Fool Again," "Swear It Again," "Evergreen," "When You’re Looking Like That," "My Love," "Flying Without Wings," "If I Let You Go," "Queen Of My Heart," and "World Of Our Own ."

Credit/source: www.mb.com.ph