Despite being one of the most successful boy bands in history, Westlife has revealed that they aren’t as rich as many might think. The Irish group, who gained global fame with hits in the late 90s, secured a lucrative £4 million record deal early in their career. However, band member Nicky Byrne recently disclosed that after all the costs were deducted, including management fees and taxes, each member only ended up with around £20,000 from the deal for their five album releases.
Nicky explained in a candid interview that although the band members received significant exposure and success, the money didn’t exactly flow into their pockets. “We had to pay management commission, then divide the rest by five and then you’ve got taxes,” he said. “We got £20,000!” This stark reality highlights how the large sums often associated with successful music deals can be quickly whittled down by fees and costs involved in maintaining a high-profile career in the industry.
Despite this, Westlife has continued to enjoy long-term success, and their fortunes have improved since those early days. However, Nicky emphasized that none of them are “absolutely minted.” In a separate conversation, he admitted to the Irish Independent that they made some financial mistakes early in their career, like purchasing luxury items such as cars and watches. He candidly stated, “We were all very foolish with money in the early days.” This admission underscores how even successful stars can struggle with managing wealth in their early years.
As time has passed, Westlife’s members have matured, and although they’ve earned substantial sums throughout their careers, their spending habits have also changed. Nicky reflected on how, despite earning a lot during their prime years, much of it was spent. “In the early days we earned great money, and in the latter days it was all gone,” he said. Despite financial ups and downs, the band has remained close-knit and continues to perform for millions of fans around the world.
Westlife’s enduring friendship and bond have been a significant part of their success. As they prepare for another UK tour, the group continues to focus on the music and the joy of performing, rather than worrying about past financial setbacks. Mark Feehily, another member, described the group’s dynamic, saying, “We never fight – it’s always just good craic with us. Now, we could have a bit of a tiff now and again, but over small, stupid things. But the next time we see each other it’s completely forgotten about.”
Despite their financial challenges early on, Westlife’s journey has been marked by their dedication to their craft and their loyal fanbase. The four-piece group, who were put together by manager Louis Walsh in 1998, has become a global music phenomenon, releasing 12 albums and performing for millions of fans worldwide. Their story is a reminder that even in the world of pop stardom, financial success doesn’t always match up to fame, and the true value often lies in the music and the relationships built along the way.
