Boyzone star Ronan Keating opens up on the ongoing impact of Stephen Gateley’s death, how he feels about his milestone birthday and the song that means more than ever
Stephen passed away 17 years ago(Image: Getty Images)
Boyzone star Ronan Keating has admitted that the loss of his bandmate Stephen Gately still affects him every day, 17 years after the singer’s tragic death.
When Keating, Keith Duffy, Mikey Graham and Shane Lynch reunited for two emotional One for the Road concerts at London’s Emirates Stadium earlier this month, one cherished member of the group was noticeably absent.
Gately died unexpectedly in October 2009 at the age of 33 after an undiagnosed heart condition caused him to pass away in his sleep while on holiday at his home in Mallorca.
Boyzone admitted Gateley would be ‘on the stage’ with them at their reunion concerts(Image: Redferns)
Throughout his 12-night residency at Wembley Stadium, Harry has fully embraced the World Cup spirit, even incorporating a rendition of England’s football anthem, Three Lions, into his setlist.
With just two London shows remaining on the Together Together tour — taking place on Friday and Saturday night, with music legend Shania Twain as the support act — the residency is nearing its conclusion.
After wrapping up in London, Harry will take the tour to Brazil and Mexico before launching a massive 30-night residency at New York’s Madison Square Garden.
The Together Together tour follows the release of Harry’s fourth studio album, Kiss All The Time. Disco, Occasionally.
Released in March, the album received largely positive reviews and produced two chart-topping singles: the lead track Aperture and its follow-up, American Girls.
During the Wembley run, Harry has also reflected on his The X Factor journey, paid tribute to the late artist David Hockney, and even adjusted the stadium’s usual rules in response to the UK heatwave.
Keating isn’t slowing down, either. The singer revealed he is back in the studio writing and recording material for a new solo album.
Before that, he is set to headline Deva Fest in Cheshire this August, where he will perform a mix of his solo hits alongside a selection of Boyzone classics.
“It’s always a pleasure to perform outdoors in the UK,” Keating said. “Let’s hope for some good weather. It’s great to see new, younger faces when you look out at the crowd, too. We’re going to have a blast!”
Steven Hesketh, founder of SAVVY Collective, whose events division, SAVVY Events, produces hospitality-led experiences, said Keating’s booking reflects the festival’s growing ambitions.
“Deva Fest has grown into one of the UK’s leading family festivals,” Hesketh said. “With tickets nearly sold out, now is the time to book. It’s the perfect summer staycation with something for everyone.”
Festival founder Phil Marston added, “This is without doubt our strongest line-up to date. We’ve worked hard to create an experience where families and friends can enjoy world-class music alongside unique entertainment.”
This year’s festival will also feature headline performances from Jessie J and James Morrison.
Source: Various
