Having recently announced a special reunion concert in London next year, we take a look back at some of our favourite songs from the group.
No Matter What: taken from Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical Whistle Down the Wind, this became Boyzone’s biggest single, release to coincide with the musical’s first production. Everything is so perfect about the song – the harmonies, the music and the lyrics – but it feels also poignant. Stephen Gately’s vocals were angelic and it is a shame that he passed away at such a young age – this song certainly showcases what a talent he was.
Words: ok so this was re-release of the Bee Gees song, but it is hard not to be moved by this take on the song that found a different interpretation, once again is filled with plenty of sincerity and fabulous harmonies.
Every Day I Love You: Boyzone came along before Westlife and showcased how a romantic ballad could prove to be touching and sincere without being over the top. As a group they knew and understood the importance of getting to the heart of a song to ensure that the listener could connect with it.
Picture of You: while best known for their ballads, Boyzone did have quite a few uplifting songs as well and this is one of our favourites. Catchy and instantly recognisable, there is plenty to love here!
You Needed Me: written and recorded by Randy Goodrum, this is a powerful love song about unconditional love and it packs a powerful punch in the way in which it is delivered by the group, once again showing the depth and understanding they would give to all of their performances.
All That I Need: this third single from the group’s ‘Where We Belong’ album (released 1998) and showcased that Boyzone were moving to a more mature sound, reflecting a change in the direction that the group wanted to make and here it works perfectly.
Gave it All Away: this is a really haunting song – particularly given it was the first song that Boyzone released in the wake of Stephen Gately’s death, with the late singer singing the opening lyrics proving to pack a powerful punch. There is a sombreness to the video but also a deeply moving aspect to it as well that will stick in fans heads for years to come.
Isn’t it a Wonder: there is a real haunting quality to this song that somehow manages to offer an element of hope to it at the same time, particularly as the song heads into the chorus. There is a real sense that as a group, Boyzone wanted to record songs that could resonate powerfully with their fans and specific situations.
By Emma Clarendon