Boyzone's Keith Duffy and Westlife's Brian McFadden have been touring together as Boyzlife for a decade, having played stadiums, performed with Mariah Carey, and seen the world. The duo, aged 51 and 46 respectively, have more than 20 UK No1 singles between them and have recently signed up for the I'm A Celebrity spin-off show The Wild Frontier in Canada.
Tour Life Compared to Boyband Days
Keith reflected on their early days in the 90s, saying they were "teenagers, learning our craft, working for a record company, being told what to do. We didn't have much control of our own lives." He noted that it was "a pressure cooker for everybody." Now, the pair plot everything together with a team they've chosen, making it "a much more enjoyable way of living in the music industry."
Brian advised young lads starting out, saying they probably didn't enjoy their group days as much as they should have because they thought it would last forever. Now, they realise every gig could be the last, so they take in the places they visit on tour.
Mutual Respect and Family Influence
Brian spoke about how Westlife started as Boyzone's support act and learned how to handle the pressures of being in a band. Keith admitted that some Westlife members, including Brian, had "fantastic vocal ability" and were better singers than him. Brian noted there was no serious rivalry between the bands because there was no real crossover period.
Both artists involve their families in touring. Keith's son Jay comes on the road with them, and Brian's daughter Molly is also an actor. Keith mentioned that Brian's five-year-old "holds a tune much better than I ever could."
Rewarding Moments and Future Plans
Brian cited 30 years in the business as a rewarding moment, while Keith highlighted supporting Mariah Carey in Indonesia, closing the Beijing Film Festival, and performing their new song "Chills" at the Emirates Stadium. They cope with tough times by ensuring they have a life outside work and taking time off for family.
Keith said they are ambitious with new music and there is talk of moving to arenas next year. Boyzlife will tour across the UK in October and November 2026, and May 2027.
