Irish boy band Westlife announces split

[October 21, 2011]  LONDON (AP) -- After 14 years as one of Ireland's most successful boy bands, the members of the Westlife group are finally handing in their mics.

The pop group members issued a statement announcing their split, saying "the decision is entirely amicable."

They said after spending "all of our adult life together so far, we want to have a well-earned break and look at new ventures." They also thanked fans "who have been with us on this amazing journey and are part of our family too."

Nicky Byrne, Kian Egan, Mark Feehily and Shane Filan will do one last farewell U.K. tour next May.

Westlife's new single "Lighthouse" will be released in November, with a greatest hits collection reaching stores in time for Christmas.

The band has sold over 44 million records worldwide.

[Associated Press]

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