Westlife and Cup of Joe?: Possible collab sparks excitement among OPM and pop fans

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When asked about the possibility of collaborating with Cup of Joe, members Shane Filan and Nicky Byrne responded enthusiastically, instantly fueling excitement among fans online. Believe us, we’ll get in touch. We’ll make it happen—we promise,” Shane was quoted saying.

Baguio City, Philippines – A dream collaboration may soon happen between one of the world’s most iconic pop groups and one of the Philippines’ fastest-rising bands after legendary Irish pop group Westlife expressed interest in working with Baguio City-based sensation Cup of Joe (COJ).

The possibility surfaced ahead of the much-anticipated Westlife 25: The Anniversary Concert in Manila in January 2027, part of the group’s world tour celebrating 25 years in music.

Westlife recently announced its global comeback tour, which will include stops across Asia, with Manila scheduled on January 20, 2027, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. Fans can expect performances of timeless hits such as My Love, Flying Without Wings, and You Raise Me Up, along with tracks from their album 25: The Ultimate Collection and new songs reportedly co-written by Ed Sheeran.

During a recent interview with national media, Westlife members spoke warmly about the unwavering support they have received from Filipino fans throughout their decades-long career. The group even recalled how Filipino audiences continue to dominate their concerts, even in other countries.

When asked about the possibility of collaborating with Cup of Joe, members Shane Filan and Nicky Byrne responded enthusiastically, instantly fueling excitement among fans online.

“Believe us, we’ll get in touch. We’ll make it happen—we promise,” Shane was quoted saying.

“It could be our biggest ever hit in the Philippines!” Nicky added.

The exchange quickly spread across social media, with fans imagining what a collaboration between the internationally renowned Irish group and the homegrown OPM band could sound like.

For many Filipinos, Cup of Joe’s rise mirrors a modern success story rooted in friendship, passion, and local talent. Formed in 2018 in Baguio City, the band began as a group of high school friends performing at school events before eventually signing with Viva Records in 2019.

The band is composed of Gian Bernardino and Raphaell Ridao on lead vocals, Gabriel Fernandez on lead guitar, CJ Fernandez on rhythm guitar, and Xen Gareza on keyboards. Over the years, COJ gained massive popularity through songs such as Tingin, Estranghero, and Multo, with Multo even reaching international charts including the Billboard Global 200.

Meanwhile, Westlife remains one of the most successful boy bands in the world since its formation in 1998. Originally composed of Shane Filan, Nicky Byrne, Kian Egan, Mark Feehily, and Brian McFadden, the group became globally known for its emotional ballads and chart-topping hits that defined an entire generation of pop music.

For many fans, Westlife’s interest in collaborating with Cup of Joe is more than just a possible musical project—it is also seen as a sign of the growing global recognition of Filipino music and artists.

As of writing, no official collaboration or guest appearance has been confirmed, but the mere possibility has already thrilled both OPM listeners and longtime Westlife fans.