Westlife

The twin planets of Croon and Swoon aligned perfectly over Ireland in 1988 to form the astral pop phenomenon Westlife. Under the guidance of former Boyzone superstar Ronan Keating (their co-manager) the band has strung together an astonishing run of 13 U.K. #1s. Lighters aloft for their silky cover of Barry Manilow's "Mandy".

Westlife own the millennial teen-slaying ballad, but as they proved on 2004's Allow Us To Be Frank, the lads can also knock out a bit of old-school swing, Rat Pack-style ("Come Fly With Me", "Ain't That a Kick In The Head"). Although they were originally a five-piece, Bryan McFadden left the outfit early in 2004, but the core remains as strong as ever.

Westlife's first seven singles not only reached #1, they actually entered the charts at that spot — a record achievement unlikely to be bettered any time soon. There's no disputing the incredible stats or the universal appeal of five (now four) strapping Irish lads who possess looks and talent in abundance. Here we give you a bulging sack of Westlife glory. Leprechauns may not be real, but the living legend of Westlife has taken on mythical proportions.