Westlife were once again welcomed back to their second home with open arms as they kicked off the first of their four night stint in the SSE Arena, Belfast.
The lads are no strangers to the venue and are the current record holders for the artist to have played the biggest number of gigs at the arena, previously known as the Odyssey.
So it was really no surprise that the Northern Irish crowds once again raised the roof of the SSE as Shane, Nicky, and Kian graced the stage for their 66th show at the venue.
Read more: Westlife stage times, parking, set list guide for Belfast concerts at SSE Arena
Opening their set with 2021 hit Starlight as confetti launched into the crowd before going straight into crowd favourite Uptown Girl, they ensured that everyone stayed on their feet from the get-go.
With Mark Feehily still recuperating at home having been diagnosed with Pneumonia at the end of November, it was up to the three lads to fill the gaps left by one of their strongest vocalists.
But they didn't have to do it alone, the Belfast crowd were in fine tune on Thursday night and ensured there were no gaps left unfilled as they belted out hit after hit from start to finish including the high notes on Flying Without Wings!
Addressing the sold out crowd, which had an age range from about 7 to 70, Shane spoke of the band's special bond with the city and how Northern Ireland will always have a special place in their hearts.
He promised that despite being a man down they would still deliver a party and that's exactly what they did.
Number one single after number one single from way back in 1999 to their latest songs released just last year it's clear to see why Westlife are still selling out show after show, arena after arena 23 years on from when they first set out.
From Swear it Again to World of Our Own and a very special ABBA Medley thrown in, and even an inpromptu crowd led rendition of Santa Claus is Coming to Town, Westlife ensured that everyone left the arena having partied the night away and a few hoarse throats for good measure.
If you're heading to any of the shows over the next three nights I have a few pieces of advice, bring your best singing voice, leave your worries at the door and just enjoy the fun that can only come with seeing Westlife live in Belfast...it's special!
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