Tommy Fleming is one of Ireland's most beloved singers, known for his powerful and emotive performances that have captivated audiences around the world. Born in County Sligo in 1971, Fleming's musical journey began at a young age and has led him to become one of Ireland's most renowned singers, with a career spanning over three decades.

From humble beginnings, Fleming's passion for music was evident, and he began performing in local talent shows and festivals at the age of seven. His talent was undeniable, and he quickly gained recognition as a young prodigy with a voice that was beyond his years. As he grew older, he continued to hone his craft, performing in pubs and clubs throughout Ireland, and gaining a loyal following of fans who were mesmerized by his voice.

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Fleming's solo career truly took off in 1996 when he was approached by renowned composer Phil Coulter to record an album of Irish songs. This collaboration resulted in the highly successful album 'Voice of Hope,' which was a collection of traditional Irish songs and original compositions. The album was a huge success, reaching number one on the Irish charts and earning Fleming his first platinum record.

From there, Fleming's career continued to soar, with numerous successful albums, international tours, and collaborations with some of the world's most renowned artists. His unique blend of traditional Irish music, contemporary covers, and original compositions has earned him a loyal fan base and critical acclaim. He has performed in prestigious venues such as Carnegie Hall in New York and the Sydney Opera House, and his music has touched the hearts of people from all walks of life.

Fleming's success and popularity can be attributed not only to his exceptional vocal talent but also to his ability to connect with his audience on a deep emotional level. His performances are known for their raw and heartfelt delivery, and he has the rare ability to bring audiences to tears with his emotive renditions of songs such as 'Danny Boy' and 'Isle of Innisfree.' His voice has been described as hauntingly beautiful and has been compared to that of the legendary Irish tenor, John McCormack.

In addition to his musical talents, Fleming is also known for his philanthropic work and has used his platform to raise awareness and funds for various charities and causes. He has been a patron of the Irish Cancer Society and has also worked closely with organizations that support people with disabilities. His generosity and compassion have earned him the respect and admiration of his fans and peers.

Despite his immense success, Fleming remains humble and grounded, always crediting his roots and his family for keeping him grounded. He continues to perform and record music, and his concerts are always a sell-out, with fans eagerly anticipating his next release. His passion for music and his unwavering dedication to his craft have made him a household name in Ireland and have earned him a place in the hearts of people around the world.

In conclusion, Tommy Fleming is not just a singer, but a national treasure of Ireland. His voice has become synonymous with the beauty and emotion of Irish music, and his performances have touched the hearts of millions. His career has been a testament to his talent, hard work, and dedication to his craft, and he will undoubtedly continue to inspire and captivate audiences for years to come.

Tommy talks about his roll in the musical Paddy.
Popular Sligo Singer Tommy Fleming tours the U.K. from the 9th to the twenty-second of November in his acclaimed musical drama ''Paddy the musical'' now venues in box office numbers on our website Irish radio. Now for decades Irish emigrants played a vital role in Britain and construction roads bridges railways and in nursing now Paddy The Musical portrays their contribution and the toll on individuals Patrick Murphy is the lead character role played by Tommy Fleming he leaves home for London in 1964.Successes trials and tribulations are followed an Paddy the shovel Kennedy who has been in London for generations reflects on his own life and advises young Patrick to avoid the pitfalls.

Now to tell us more unpleased as they are very good afternoon Tommy Fleming. How you doing / how are you Jerry, not bad at all. Tommy nice to speak with you again, now Tommy actually Paddy The Musical is a social history of though there have been a books and documentaries but Irish exiles there the story brought to the stage makes it very accessible and coming to U.K. cities you're reaching those who were experienced immigration or heard accounts from fathers and uncles as in your own case. Do you feel this gives a ring of truth to it all absolutely doesn't mean we put with  the stage initially two years ago and you know looking at the script and looking at the whole storyline it's it completely rang true for me and hence the reason I took the role and taking the lead in this was not some was not an easy decision.

Because it was, it's a huge power to do, but it tells a great story and like there isn't you know, there isn't a railway there's an immortal way there isn't a high-rise an office block that hasn't got the sweat of an Irishman honours in England and another, the song Paddy of course was originally written by Jerry Carney. indeed it was yeah Jerry, great songwriter and from there we kind of put the week jealous the rest official together to bring music in to us and then we wrote the meet with us 12 more sound forest right now I understand when this project could start your visuals was actually not to appear but you're invited to do so when the critics an audience reaction in Ireland has that certainly justified the decision you sellouts including at the board. Gosh energy theatre and Dublin are you joined at the the combination of acting yonder together with the singing. I mean, in fact years ago and I just kind of I couldn't keep both  so too I'm always been a singer, actor not an actress singer. So when I took the role I tossed look as I do it for a while and that'll be it had to be good.

I didn't think it would get the reaction at first be perfectly honest with ya. and the reaction has been massive and the reviews have been masters and I've been very proud to get the reviews i got. Indeed Daniel O'Donnell writing in the Sunday world as actually said it's everything you could ask for in an evening of theatre. Who else is involved in the directing in the production the wider calendar in the show why the cast there's nine because nine members of the cast are they ared Gacy School of Acting an actual fantastic actor Michelle Ali who is the former lead singer of the down and another great actor is Jerry Carney who plays Paddy, the shovels Honeyman to this telecast it's a great Miss Brennan with another great young lad who plays a deep character Frank and it's working with them, is kind of it's funny, because I've been so used to kind of it just work in the Tommy Fleming and working on stage and then the lead man. 

I'm in the role and all of that I know I've got nine cast around me, which are fantastic that's excellent admitting moving to the storyline your character Paddy leaves  to settle in London which was the experience of many. Now challenges were hard work, for little pay, and poor housing. Now the motivational to send money home, it was important to you that you're giving that a platform to acknowledge the important contribution of the Irish diaspora during these hard times. Absolutely, I mean I used to remember, I always said that there's the household at home in Ireland that hasn't cashed I've  that doesn't know Paddy that it is related to a Paddy and what I mean by Paddy by the Mendez went over and built Britain went over and tried to make a big big life because the BET didn't work out and they ended up on tough times, and they became are we not with what we now know at the Forgotten Irish. And it's a serious tribute to those men and women that's worked their fingers to the bone to make a life for themselves.

 And it's just some some of them it didn't work out for the bottom and each know we've had a great feedback from those who saw the play in Ireland. In fact Catherine Hallinan from that Mayo we were so taken with it she's actually bringing family members to the Watford performance for example and also the critic on the Irish Independent capture sentiments well by saying Paddy is passionately performed for those who suffer the loss of her family in Britain, before a facebook and skype will resonate deeply and each few people even back then, I had telephones to keep in touch they're leading to immense loneliness needless to say.

Absolutely, I make you to think it's a very smokes much smaller world today then it was back then because you know and maybe a phone call might have been a bit look it's very look if you got the phone call one week and that's what does very Catholic deeds under now well now you've got skype viber facebook twitter you've got everything, so you know, even if you do like for example it takes exactly the same time today to get to Sydney from Dublin as it does to get from Mayo to London in 1964 wow that is but a circle putting it in perspective non-display know and it's amazing actually. Sorry I forgot now that but it's amazing because I just part of that the other day 'cause there, about six weeks ago I flew over to Sydney to do a PR trip which I arrived on left on the fight eat and arrived on the Sunday did my PR on the Monday and  was then I left on the Wednesday and I was home on Friday.

Right, amazing, amazing changes in the world, not despite the serious subject matter people go to the theatre to be entertained and that Paddy the musical here. I believe doesn't disappoint as well as the narrative. you've that song some of which were will play over the coming weeks know where your so there's also where some humour in there you're not sweeping the harsh reality of social issues of the day under the carpet. But it's fair to say that there are a few like moments, along the way there's a lot of light moments and there's a lot of great funny lines in it that are you know, even to this day and how many performances I've done at the show and I still find them funny and i still find certain parts of it's very funny. And there's a lot of emotion there's a lot of laughter, there's a lot of Tears there's a lot of angst, there's a lot of anger and it covers the gauntlet of every emotion we have. Right that sounds superb know you were busy November Tommy. I'll have to say with it say you're opening in Warrington on the month of November further appearances a Reddish, Telford, Lincoln stock board Colin Bedworth and culminating at the walk from Coliseum 22nd of November tickets are selling fast. Tommy do you enjoy being on stage and connecting with audiences ? I do, as a singer I do, as an actor is very different, because I'm not fair as Tommy's living in there as Patrick Murphy, it's a very different thing and I still get the balls I'm literally after last Monday I finished my US tour and I was home and Tuesdays though that was four weeks of traveling all around the US.

Which we finished in San Francisco and I was on my own as a Tommy Fleming trip  and now I kind of jump back into the role of Patrick Murphy as the actor to do the U.K. tour. And it's jumping from one to the other can be difficult for this supposed as I was there I mean him and 25 years this year  I do and I still haven't last the flare heard you know that's absolutely excellent now would feature some of the tracks from it Paddy the fool that I lost goodbye my old friend and also where edge work you've got a new album you've got a Duet us with that Vince Gill Leah seemed country singer Vince Gill and a version of ''what a wonderful world'' from my new album  year from the I brother Bret 25th anniversary almost it was released yesterday. actually um called stories and it's kind of 25 years of songs that I recorded, five new songs and one of those was I got a call from , I met Ben many years ago we got to know each other. And I did back a vocalist often different albums from and he rhyming Eastwood went towards us and I designer could use on the album absolutely and it's been it's been a huge air player in Ireland at the moment, thanks.

Irish Singer Jimmy Buckley interview with Jerry Byrne. it's Irish radio now since uh the onset of the lockdowns with covid and lack of live music and performances have been speaking to many of the great and the good of entertainment now my next guest is certainly no exception a gentleman who has an an astounding career as a one of Ireland's top country entertainers one of the top bands and top singers in Ireland and has been and sustained that for many many years also touring is one part of the the Three Amigos once a year and  astounding performer a gentleman an incredible voice who he hails from County Limerick and I'm delighted to say hello to the one and only Jimmy Buckley. 

Jimmy how are you, hello Jerry and great to talk to you how are you not too bad at all not too bad it's strange times we're in Jimmy awesome very strange times were in indeed Jerry. I mean this time last year I was preparing to go on my tour to Spain where we had a huge hugely successful week out there and it was due to to happen this time between the 12th and the 19th of October and you know just as well reminiscent about last year and then we had the Amigos tour and then I toured with Claudia my daughter and we had a great we had a wonderful year and then just in in since March in with with the with the pandemic and all everything stopped you know and what a year it's been you know.

I mean so many you know it's the first thing you have to do is to think of all the poor people who who've you know lost loved ones and and you know people who who are in danger with this terrible virus and that which is it seems to be sort of you know taking over the world and such but hopefully they're getting a vaccine you know up and running pretty soon for it and and you know it'll make the vulnerable safe and that so when you look at it from that point of view you know at least at some stage we'll get back to doing what we're best at and you know but hopefully just in in a safe environment and that all our friends and their families can be safe and well. That's the most important thing of all you know indeed it is yes indeed. It is because uh you know at the end of the day this is no joke and we've got to take it seriously and I think possibly in the bigger picture Jimmy of it all in a you know in a lifetime of entertainment this I think overall will be will only a short blip out.

Well I suppose you know, it will I suppose initially you present yourself when it when it happened in March. Well you know we've been touring so many years extensively and very busy and you know I thought, well you know maybe I'll just take the time out you know I have some Greyhounds and I love, you know breeding and wearing my own grounds and and and now I'm doing it all now in the way of training them as well and things and I'm glad to have them because it they're welcome sort of uh diversion if you like and it you know it's good mentally as well and that type of thing but you know it's, we thought initially you know got it just think we won't be back on the road until the end of April and then we thought maybe the end of May and now it's all for the summer and it's October and not looking like any time in the foreseeable future

Anyway you know so it's it's a big shock to the system and and very much a change to the way of life that we were you know used to you know run and racing and schedules and interviews and actually pulling off terry this interview with yourself is I think maybe only the second or they've possibly thought interview I've done since March it's just that. I just kind of if you like dropped out from the whole lot of it for a while to just see how things go and you know give people breathing space to  to take in what's happening if you like you know so it's nice to get talking to to yourself on the radio and and talk about old times and look forward to to hopefully new times in whatever will be the new norm. You know indeed indeed so Jimmy but you know you've had an astounding career. 

I mean you've remained up there you know at the top with the you know in the in the with a band and an incredibly successful band you've been you've been on the top  for literally years. Yeah we you know I've been very fortunate to you know to be having a very very good career in the last couple years have been wonderful you know I mean, I suppose as a solo performer with my own band touring you know in Ireland and England and we take our our we take our our um Scotland as well of course. And which has become very good for us as well and we we take our tour to Spain or cracking the cost of the last couple of years that's something that has been building up you know massively and really successfully.

And then the amigos of course. The Three Amigos was a huge success, and you know touring with my daughter Claudia's also an added bonus as well. And you know I suppose you know I've been very fortunate Jerry and I have a lot of very loyal fans that have stuck with me over the years and um you know very fortunate very lucky but I certainly in front of my miss meeting the people and meeting all our friends and our friends and you know for instance just this week we'll say Donegal going on on lockdown there and that and my thoughts you know go to all those people because of fantastic people I love the county going on and I love that you know the enthusiasm they have for for their music is unbelievable and they're great great people so I just hope that they that everything can get back to normal for them soon you know indeed indeed and of course you you jimmy right throughout each year you were playing in all of the top dancing destinations including the likes of the allium arms in Bundoran in Donegal.

And all the other you know the top dancing venues throughout the country as well as all the the concerts and all the other all the other touring you did as well. Yeah I mean like all the great vineyards like I mean the ellingham and even the avid hotel there  all another fantastic venue and you know the up in  Tyrone and you know you know the newly and you know all over the north and that Bellymina and you know like some  brilliant dance venues all over the country you know and it's so destroying to see you know the like adventures like that and for instance you know people like it like the you know for instance dearlingham and you know Peter Mack they're a fantastic man and his wife Elizabeth you know built that hotel you know to be one of the most you know popular country music venues in Ireland.

As it will be again when it returns. But you know, it's very hard under all those hotels and on and on you know their staff and people who've been very loyal to country music so it's not just I suppose the singers and the bands and the musicians it's all those people in the venues as well that and you know it makes yourself Jerry and and all your colleagues in that but look there's no I look I suppose I don't want to be sounding like doom and gloom eater and you know does he's got the future is bright and and um you know I suppose you just have to say to yourself how long more will it be before you know to develop a vaccine that people will be comfortable with and that people will have the the if you like the confidence to venture out again you know and I hope you know it's come soon.

Like the the Irish people are great resolving that and the people who follow country music you know but in England and Scotland and that's it you know they're all people who just love a good night out, love a good dance a little concert and you know we missed the entertaining. I was talking to Claudia about the other day with two guitars out and we were just singing and playing away to ourselves and you just missed the buzz of entertaining people you know that's the real buzz of it you know. Indeed so, yes and you know Claudia in speaking to Claudia you know she will she spoke of the influence that you had been on her and uh uh you know all of the things and  you know I sort of thought she definitely kind of had a little bit of a head start by being you know by me being around with you seeing your performance traveling with you, You know, and all of all of that is a fantastic start for somebody in a music career.

Well you know I'll tell you it was great that I could give her the opportunities and and I suppose maybe show her some of the pitfalls and that that that you know as I call them the potholes that maybe I fell into and maybe I could have Covoid if you would for Claudia but you know she's a great girl she just loves country music she loves meeting people and you know. She loves the old traditional country and she mixes it with some of the modern stuff as well. And you know she was just really getting into performing when when when this happened you know this you know and but like myself you know she's there and she's just waiting and learning to go when whenever we get to the green light again Jerry and you know if we it could come back as good as ever and probably better.

Because people would be fed up of not being able to get out to see shows that it could give a probably a very much needed shot in the air myself you know. Indeed, so no doubt about that one thing Jimmy that you're renowned for is you you have an absolutely always have a top class band you know big sound you know and under some fantastic musicians in your band you know. I am very fortunate all right to have some great musicians over the years and I've always tried to make a point of keeping the standard of the musicians and the standard of the band and the show as high as you can because it's like it's like a game of hauling a football or anything like that it's supposed you're really only as good as your last show and you know the way I would look at this you know people people deserve that and they expect it nowadays you know. To for you to have a good show and a good band and a good band just you know when you when it gels together and the singer out front it all looks like a it's all like a wheel and there's so many cogs in the way.

But they all have to be turning at the same time and you know I have, I've had great musicians and still have them because when we come back there I mean they're all ready to go and I feel for the lads. I feel for all the musicians all the hard work and musicians and my colleagues and singers and that you know who you know applied their trade you know willingly up and down the roads of Ireland  you know and and further afield over the years and so much talented people bringing so much entertainment to many people and now you know if you like their their someone you know some of them are you know are struggling very much and my heart goes out to them because they're  great people and such talented people so you know this was the pandemic has really  hit our industry in a bad way.

But you know, I suppose it is probably in every industry you know in one way or another and you know but look there's those brighter days. Indeed that's the thing Jimmy, interesting thing actually, you're saying about the band is many of your band members actually uh are uh you know as you know are session musicians and they're you know they're taking my studios to do backing and all that thing I think which is a testament to the you know the sheer talent of those guys. That you've got in the band and you've always the banter oh your band has always been absolutely top class, and top class sound and and show well thank you thank you they have indeed and you know recently actually my old fiddle player friend and colleague of mine for over 19 years Charlie wonderful Charlie Arkins, all the way from from at boy and of course we've with the Cotton Mill Boys for years and with  one opportunity next to the couple boys and with John Hogan for a long time as well and he spent a long spell with me and  what a tour gentleman and a brilliant brilliant musician and Charlie recently retired from from the band you know it's just he's I suppose he got the taste of being at home for a while and Mary probably persuaded him up the boot for hang up the ball.

If you like but we'll miss Charlie Arkins, he was a wonderful fiddle player wonderful character and so well loved and liked by everybody but you know he retired recently and I wish him all the very best what a brilliant guy you know and I we had some brilliant laughs together by God we had some great times you know yes indeed I've seen that all right and Charlie really was you know I'll have to say he he was one of those guys who was larger than life uh on stage and a fantastic musician very you know really  wonderful charisma about him Jerry he just you know he just had that that God-given talent and and the charisma to carry it off and always a smile for everyone and just a brilliant player and a good real authentic country traditionally country fiddle player and and brilliant harmonica player as well.

You know what I mean, so just really  terrific guy you know. Indeed, so you know it's amazing but to this day it's a just it's a regular occurrence for me to get requests for Your Wedding Day Song continually after all these years also what a song what a song that was written by Henry McMahon for me and you know it's one of those songs that you know I will have to sing at any show I do until, until I hang up my boots, anywhere and I'm forever grateful to Henry McMahon for writing me that brilliant song you know and you know funny enough it just reminds me of you know being at the dance is over in England as well and that you know and against more and I want to say a big hello to my great friend Stephen keller Jerry I know you know Stephen well he's a great friend and a huge follower of the bands for years and we know Steve, Steven's a little bit poorly at the minute and I wish him all the very best because he's come to Ireland you could meet Stephen anywhere and he'd be in at all the venues in England that's such a lovely chap and all's wishing all the bands all the very best and I saw, I want to give a huge big shout out to Stephen and thank him indeed for all his brilliant support for the years. Indeed,

So wishing Stephen all the best Jimmy you haven't done you've kind of taken that you're saying there's sort of a back seat and you've concentrated on on your dogs and all that since the start you haven't really sort of done any live streaming or anything like that since the lockdown. No not really I suppose you know  the live streaming thing I'm kind of maybe I'm more of a more of a live person in front of people you know what I mean and that and you know I mean we put up the ad posts and that but you know sometimes it can be maybe overdone I think you know um too much of it and there may be better off to dip in and out of times and give people a chance to you know see other things in that but um no I mean I just love performing to people I love you know for performing in front of people and getting their reactions and that's what really buzzes me and that's the thing i miss most is to you know perform you know have  have um a lot of songs ready to go and singles ready to go and that type of thing Jerry but you know I suppose I'm waiting for the time to you know to release a song or two you know.

If you have a big hit at the moment I suppose it could be in one since it's great and then another since you wouldn't really have the chance to tour it if it was very successful for you you know so it's a kind of a it's a kind of a do our order type of scenario you know yes yes you know what i totally understand that it's one of those situations that for an artist is very hard to call and you know that is the truth of it. And the one ironic thing as we were saying about is that everybody involved in the in the arts and the performing arts right across the world has been affected this includes you know the theaters the shows on Broadway or the west end every single thing right across the world every single thing from you know from the biggest touring actor you know to the the people who do their one-man shows or you know are you know the musicians you know even the bus goes down to down to everyone who can sing or entertain or act or you know the actors that you know wonderfully talented people in the acts that you know just we just can't do anything unfortunately you know at the moment.

But look, I suppose when we do get back we appreciate it all the more that's the way you know and you know it's I suppose you don't you don't miss it until you're not doing it for a while maybe but you know all those entertainers are so willing to get back at us anytime soon hopefully. You know but hopefully people can get through the winter okay and I know that you have an awful lot of Irish people over there that we listen to as well and people from back home and I can only wish them all the very best in their families and and we're thinking of them and that they'll all they're safe and healthy and well.

Mick Flavin, an Irish country singer, has been a prominent figure in Irish music for over four decades. With his distinct voice and traditional country style, Flavin has captured the hearts of fans all over Ireland and beyond. Despite facing numerous challenges throughout his career, Flavin has remained a beloved and influential artist in the Irish music scene.

Born in 1949 in the small town of Ballinamuck, County Longford, Flavin was exposed to music from a young age. His father, a fiddle player, and his mother, a singer, were both passionate about traditional Irish music. It was this rich musical heritage that would shape Flavin's passion for music and set him on the path to becoming a successful singer.

Flavin's career began in the late 1960s when he joined a local band, The Plainsmen. However, it wasn't until the early 1980s that he released his first solo album, 'The Old School Yard'. The album was a success and immediately caught the attention of the Irish music industry. This led to a recording contract with Ritz Records and the release of his second album, 'The Days of '49' in 1983.

The 1980s proved to be a pivotal decade for Flavin as he rose to fame in Ireland with hits such as 'The Old School Yard', 'The Days of '49', and 'I'll Take You Home Again Kathleen'. His traditional country style and heartfelt lyrics resonated with audiences, and he quickly became known as the 'King of Country' in Ireland.

However, Flavin's career faced a major setback in 1985 when he was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer. He was forced to take a break from music and undergo extensive treatment. Despite the challenges, Flavin remained determined to continue his music career. In 1986, he released the album 'Life Goes On' which was inspired by his battle with cancer. The album was a success and marked his triumphant return to the music scene.

Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, Flavin continued to release hit albums and tour extensively in Ireland and the UK. He also expanded his fanbase to the United States and Canada, where he became a popular artist in the Irish-American community. His albums consistently topped the Irish charts, and he was awarded the 'Male Vocalist of the Year' award at the Irish Country Music Awards on multiple occasions.

In addition to his successful music career, Flavin also made a name for himself as a talented songwriter. Many of his songs, such as 'The Old School Yard' and 'The Days of '49', have become staples in the Irish country music genre and have been covered by numerous artists.

Furthermore, Flavin's dedication to preserving traditional Irish country music has earned him the respect and admiration of fellow artists and fans alike. He has been a strong advocate for promoting and supporting up-and-coming Irish country artists, and his influence on the genre is evident in the success of many young artists today.

Despite facing health issues in recent years, Flavin continues to perform and record music. His most recent album, 'The Essential Collection', was released in 2018 and features a compilation of his greatest hits. He also continues to tour, performing to sold-out crowds all over Ireland.

In conclusion, Mick Flavin is a legendary figure in the Irish music scene. His distinctive voice, traditional country style, and heartfelt lyrics have cemented his place in the hearts of fans for over four decades. Despite facing challenges, Flavin's determination and passion for music have made him a beloved and influential artist in Ireland and beyond. He has left a lasting impact on the Irish country music genre, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of artists.

vesI'm Jerry Byrne I'm speaking to the great and the good of music now my next guest is the gentleman I spoke to him back a few months ago in uh the first lockdown that  happened  one of the big names in uh music in excess of 30 years  at the top of his game and still performing well up until lockdown still recording I'm delighted to say hello to him in balance in county long for the winners only Mick flavin and mick how are you. Hello Jerry how are you, nice nice to talk to you again. Indeed it is Mick it is the last time we spoke  was in the the first part of  of lockdown and  all the rest and you've been you've been a busy lad during the period of lockdown recording a complete new album. 

Yeah I've got a new 18 track album out uh cherry and just picked some songs there when there wasn't a whole lot going on really on the on the live scene and so with some operating songs and I've got a few originals in there as well a couple of nice songs written by uh P.J. Morrihy and have a nice original there by shoenik ramsey as well so I went up to a guy that's I started doing a bit of walk with there last year and him and I did a couple of  different gigs together we did quite a bit at the social dancing here in Ireland and he's a man called Brian Kerrigan so Brian has his own studio in Letterkenny and I went up to Brian and spent a few years up there with him and went back again, just do the finish so that's where I recorded it and studio right I must say it's a top-class quality I must say and uh the the song I know the single which was released it was released back just a short time before the album home in long food written by P.J. Murrahy going in absolute dorm it is.

yeah it's a great song, and it basically tells the story about  when I was starting off on the business an old guitar and you know suppose really like a lot of people that started off in the business. You know it's nice to go back where you started from and and it's always nice to remember where you started from really you know and it tells the story really about me starting out and I was very lucky really to be honest Jerry in the business you know 43 great years and you know been really lucky and not just here in Ireland but across in the U.K. indeed England and London especially in Birmingham, Manchester, right across Scotland and have had great old times in London especially. 

Indeed you were there many many times and  one of the top the top draws there you've got a little another song on there from Peterborough that album was well the wounded pilgrim and yeah another penguin is a great song as well let's uh it tells the story of well it would relate to my the problem that I had back the years when i was trying to kick the habit or trying to get off the drink and it tells the story of a person in similar circumstances so it's a really you know, it's close to home song for me as well you know so a very good writer  and he's written some great songs especially for Daniel O'Donnell and people like that you know and just recorded some great original material to themselves like indeed he certainly has now what interesting thing make about this album.

 I remember the the very first album, well I remember playing it on radio back in the day which was introducing that was an album released in you know in 1986 and you've actually correct yeah you've recorded actually you've re-recorded three of the classic tracks there was on that album dream of me precious jewel and gone gone gone they're featured on the new album yeah  that's correct. Yeah well I suppose when I took it out to be honest Jerry. It was only on cassette and and then I had it out about a year and a company in England took it over called prison leisure and they put it on vinyl and and they changed the name of it because the name I had on the cassette was a great name really because I wouldn't have been known at all like really I would have been known a bit here in Ireland all right Midlands would have played in the pub scene and that but nobody in England would have known me around like that so there's a great title really introducing Mick Flavin, you know and it did a lot of good for me in England honestly you know indeed it did and uh it was a it was an album that uh you know that certainly did a lot but those particular songs where  your classic tracks from  back in time and it's lovely to have them on this album I must say.

It is yeah, it's nice because down through the years there are fans of mine you know that come along and they say well look we've got all we've got everything that you recorded except your very first songs your first tip on and I said well look at maybe someday I'll maybe when I get back in the studio I'll you know re-record them and put them on cd and and that's what I did really.

Yeah that's excellent stuff and I must say, top class, the top quality recording and top quality production on it and it is yeah that's what I'm saying about Brian Kerrigan. He's a terrific guy, he's got a great ear for music and he's got a really good studio there as well it's called harmony studios in that and  you know I could honestly it's my first time ever to record with him, but I think he's he's excellent now and he's you know, if it was normal times he would be getting a hell of a lot of work even from from that album but he's doing okay at the minute now.

But you know everybody is suffering from badly with this corona virus or covert 19 and I mean it's just it has been a horrendous year really for people in the music business and I mean it was last January I think was the last time I did the gig with the band on the twenty it was about the 24th of January. Now I was supposed to be over in the U.K. there in around London on that in Birmingham for some Saint Patrick's weekend but so like the whole thing was up and hit then and you know it was really breaking bad at that that's time you know indeed so Mandy so and you know what it has been as you said it's been an absolutely horrendous  year and I think for anybody in the in the performing arts be it singing or acting on stage or involved in music it doesn't matter what it is everything has just been washed out everything oh yeah.

It's terrible yeah. and it's not just our country or England or the U.K. it's right across the whole world you know indeed, so it's incredible to think you know of all the people involved in you know in the you should say the performing arts and hospitality sector which have been impacted it says huge upside oh yeah absolutely the whole the whole this music business in Ireland I mean it was it was the to the economy it would have been what about two or three billion in a year and that's a that's a phenomenal amount of money for a small little country really you know.

It is indeed, it's absolutely huge,  another track by the way we make on that album is you've got a you've got a duet with the calvin singer brenton German of a murderer in German yea mm-hmm murderer musical music role yeah  it's a really good song I think it was George Street and Alan Jackson had the original of that you know and it's a good song and it came out really well too you know, indeed. So it sounds I have to say it sounds great and i'll have to say the two voices your two voices fit very very well in ours yeah because we never ever sang before or we just you know it's just it seemed to just the jail just  like you know indeed excellent so mickey how can how can people get the album.

Yeah well, we're selling the album on from my U.K. website  I've got a new website it's www. mixlab. co. U.K. that's one way you can you can purchase it and then for people who claim to maybe don't you know are not familiar with computers and that like myself I'm hopeless on a computer. You can actually just send on a check or a postal order here to me from which it's just mixed lab and schoolyard records from this County Longford and if you send a check report to the order for uh 20 euro that'll and that will cover uh post and packaging and all that stuff you know great stuff great stuff and i believe it is it's going a storm for you at the moment yeah it's selling ex extremely well and you know i was just saying just imagine if we had if we were out doing gigs and stuff like that it would have been you know it's really it's been fantastic now I'm really over the moon about how well it's selling.

For me, you know that is that's absolutely excellent and you know well done, in you know in the in the difficult circumstances you know to you know that you've actually been  been able to to do the album and you know and get it out yeah well done on that yeah because I suppose it will it will cheer people up and you know and it will be a nice little uh stop and filler for the Christmas as well like you know indeed so Mick listen it's been lovely to lovely to catch up with you lovely to get the to get the album on this and wishing you loads of success with us thanks a million Jerry and i just want to say a million thanks to you because uh it's a long long time since you and i met below in Monahan it could be 35 34 or 5 years ago nearly uh but you've been you know you've been so good to me and all the Irish artists over there in London and all through the years like and i just want to say thanks a million jerry and i want to wish you and your family a very happy Christmas and indeed hopefully with the help of God a better year in 2021 and the very same to all your listeners here as well Gerry I want to thank them all very much for all the support that have given me down through the years and you know for buying cds and I want to wish them all a very happy and of course a very healthy new year as well.

Songs on this site by Mick Flavin include,
Longford On My Mind and The Old Schoolyard

Annmarie O'Riordan is a well-known and highly respected Irish singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist. Born on the 27th of July 1990 in Rathcoole, Co. Cork, Ireland, she has made a significant impact in the traditional Irish music scene, both in Ireland and internationally. Her unique voice, exceptional musical talent, and passion for her heritage are what sets her apart from other contemporary Irish singers.

Annmarie was born into a musical family, with both her parents, Connie and Mick O'Riordan, being renowned traditional Irish musicians. From a young age, she was immersed in Irish music and culture, and it was evident that she had a natural talent for singing and playing instruments. She began her musical journey at the age of four, learning to play the tin whistle, and by the age of six, she had mastered the fiddle, accordion, and concertina. Her parents' influence and guidance played a significant role in shaping her musical style and instilling a deep appreciation for her Irish roots.

As she grew older, Annmarie's passion for traditional Irish music continued to blossom, and she began to showcase her talents through various competitions and performances. At the age of 15, she won the prestigious All-Ireland Fleadh Cheoil competition, a significant accomplishment for any musician. This win propelled her into the spotlight, and she quickly became recognized as a rising star in the traditional Irish music scene.

Annmarie's music is deeply rooted in her Irish heritage and pays homage to the traditional songs and tunes that have been passed down through generations. Her powerful and emotive voice captures the essence of Irish music, and her mastery of multiple instruments adds a unique and dynamic layer to her performances. Her traditional and contemporary influences blend seamlessly, creating a sound that is both authentic and modern.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Annmarie's career is her ability to appeal to a wide audience. Her performances have captivated audiences in Ireland, the UK, Europe, and the United States. She has shared the stage with some of the biggest names in Irish music, including The Chieftains, Altan, and The High Kings. Her music has also been featured on various television and radio programs, further expanding her reach and influence.

In addition to her successful music career, Annmarie is also a passionate advocate for the Irish language. She is a fluent speaker of the language and often incorporates it into her music. She has also worked with organizations such as Conradh na Gaeilge to promote and preserve the language. Her dedication to her heritage and language has earned her recognition and awards, such as the prestigious Gradam Ceoil TG4 Traditional Singer of the Year in 2014.

Annmarie's musical talent and success have not gone unnoticed, and she has received numerous accolades throughout her career. In 2013, she was named Young Musician of the Year by the Irish Music Association in the United States. She has also been nominated for multiple Irish Music Awards and has received critical acclaim from music critics and industry professionals.

Despite her young age, Annmarie O'Riordan's career has been nothing short of remarkable. She has established herself as a prominent figure in the traditional Irish music scene and has become a role model for young musicians. Her dedication to preserving and promoting Irish music and culture has earned her a special place in the hearts of her fans and the wider Irish community.

In conclusion, Annmarie O'Riordan's musical journey is a testament to the power of passion and hard work. Her exceptional talent, deep connection to her heritage, and unwavering commitment to her art have propelled her to great heights in the music industry. As she continues to evolve and grow as an artist, there is no doubt that Annmarie O'Riordan will continue to make a significant impact in the world of traditional Irish music and beyond.


​From an interview on Irish Radio.
​I'm Jerry Byrne, now since the advent of covid and all the rest, been speaking to many of the great and the good of irish entertainment and music. I got a lady online now who recorded a total of five albums, done numerous appearances and a lady who is involved in cultists actually does uh teaching for cultures cult or iron and has started music at a very young age and I'm delighted to say hello from near middle street in County Cork the one and only Annmarie Reardon Annmarie, how are you ? Hello Jerry thank you very much for having me on your show um I'm glad to be with you and when you gave the introduction of the great and the good I was saying oh you must have someone else from the other line but no I'm delighted when you introduce me then so thank you very much. So I hope all your your listeners are doing well in these very strange times in very strange times it did they are armory no question or doubt about that listen, tell me this how did you become involved in music in the first place. 

Well actually I'm from a very musical family to be fair now. If you ask my parents do I get the music from my mother's side or my father's side they both say their own size because my grandfather's people were all inspiring about the cardinal and singing and my mother's people they were all into singing and dancing just dancing so I thought I got it for everyone. My youngest childhood memories were of singing songs here at the station mass so I think there was great excitement also station Matthews paint the entire house and be clearly up for it and all the neighbors would be around for a bit of a sing song and of course the last so I started singing then in. 

I joined courses at the tender age of six. My mother had joint qualities with me just because I had such a love of van singing my first competition I was five and I won gold medals singing teddy blogging and I haven't stopped singing since so i went on to record an album then when i was 12 so to then it's all gross since then I recorded five albums and I'm currently finishing up recording my sixth album. Wow that is, that is some going that really is ongoing oh it's uh yeah sort of busy this is life definitely is that way in the intervening time.

 I mean, as well as recording all these albums that you were you were studying and you've actually a qualified primary school teacher. I am indeed, I'm a primary school teacher. I studied in mary macula college and I there's actually a specialism in theology and religious education and I'm currently teaching full-time in a local school in County Cork and I am doing a master's as well in theology and Christian leadership as well in Mary I thought I like to keep myself busy, so doing the masters and teaching full-time and for sure, just go to busy jury well that's I mean it's busy and busy but that seems to be phenomenal stuff it really does and in the intervening time you've also got engaged, congratulations to you. 

Oh it is indeed yes so, guitarist and singer but he's an engineer as well. So that's  a good thing as well he's  he knows a few bits as well so he's, yeah so we got engaged in September so you know call this wasn't that bad to me I suppose. In ways like that because I said we started building our house back in June, so and we're I'm building a house here on the the farm at home so it's exciting that way and yeah something like this gave me a bit of opportunity to record the album and that which i'm recording behind the scenes studios in Killarney.

So it's going well as well as could be expected, in the very strange year that we've had so far indeed so I mean it's a phenomenal achievement to you know have done all those things at the you know the same time. Recorded all those albums and you also do I mean teaching of singing for cultures also the you know, your own singing in various places you know you know plus all the education everything else I mean that is that has been  really proactive I thought I'm used to being a busy household like my parents would have been you know they'd be working in farming and stuff at home and they're kind of, we like we like to keep busy and you know i like farming myself. I love being a primary school teacher but it's nice to have the do the math as well just to be learning more and I suppose every day we're learning and we can share more than with our pupils in school and with people we meet so it's um it's like it's nice to keep studying keep learning and keep sharing the knowledge.

Indeed, well done on it all. Now you see with  the teaching of the singing for cultures I mean needless to say you're not able to do that uh face-to-face with the the whole covid situation. So well how are you getting around that ? Yes so it was very strange there coming on to September again when we normally start into our singing lessons and bush wouldn't I know the courses when they called adventures and fighting consumers other coldest branches have just decided not to wait until after Christmas they're hoping for the best and but the zoom yeah lessons they're they're very different but um i thought you still get to share your your love of singing and has young aspiring singers to learn new songs and to learn different techniques and breathing techniques and ornamentation, so it's just by a zoom, which is nothing is like being one to one in a classroom or a hall setting for Sam the zuma's next best thing so we'll just keep going and keep sharing sharing the love of Irish and music and um just sort of pass it on to where everyone has it so it's it's a it's a great great thing. 

I know we in Ireland, we're very lucky with a beautiful language and great music and great culture so it's nice to be teaching young children things for their appreciation as well in time to come indeed I would imagine that you know  from the first album that you actually released, you've had you know a huge recognition by a huge amount of people far and wide off your music and you've also sold a huge amount of  albums as well. Yeah I suppose I've been very lucky really in ways, and that's my I thought every song I think I'll have to learn about the history of it because singing is just telling a story through song. And I love learning all about the songs that I sing before I ever sing them
And I think people appreciate when you when you put your heart and soul into songs and tell the story best you can and I have travelled across this all around Europe to America and Canada and it's a great opportunity to meet people and to hear how they, I suppose hear the song and interpret the song. 

And what the songs mean to them, so for example I remember I was over and touring America one time and this gentleman came up to me and he says that I sing a great Kerry song figures from Clifford's song Boys of Barr na Stráide and I said I can indeed and he just walked away he didn't say no more and after half an hour of the concerts I started swinging by the ball and shot her and I saw this big strong man and the tears rolling down his face wow and after the concert he came up to me and I said to myself the boys about a show that means something to you. And he said henry he said it certainly does. He says I left Ireland over 40 years ago and he says my mother used to be outside me feeding the hymns and doing the few jobs and she would be singing The Boys of Barr na Stráide and shortly after I came over here to New York he said my mother passed away and I hadn't any means to go home and I haven't been back in Ireland since.

So he says, it's a song that is truly motive for me and he thanked me for singing. So it's really chariot songs and experiences that like that that make us all the worthwhile and that's what was really special so that's why i love meeting people and just sharing my love of song and it's it's great to have the opportunity that people support me so I can keep sharing my singing and the stories that go along with songs. 

Indeed, well done, and you know that that is absolutely fantastic and you know it's great stories like that that you know I hear so many times from so many artists you know about the the sheer power of music and the sheer power of songs and it's a real shame I think that you know one of the things which all singers and performers and entertainers say to me is that the one thing that they miss  with the current situation with covid is actually meeting people.

Yeah it is, it's very it's very very strange like I just concert settings I'll be doing it I'd be singing a concert and actually talking to people and during the the break the concert and after and hearing their stories and it's just it's the social aspect because you get to to meet people and you know everyone. It's kind of things are gone so cool no and it's not the same over the phone you never you know it's just not the same feel or even on video just having conversation there's nothing like it like meeting someone face to face and just sharing the stories and the songs so it is something that we really miss and hopefully we'll be back again soon hopefully all this will pass some time. It has to journey, so and hopefully we'll be back to the concerts and the dance. 

Indeed, so well the thing about it is Annmarie, if you look back and if you go into history every single pandemic has come and gone so and this one's looking good to be gone because we're getting vaccines and all the rest of it so I think we'll have a brighter year in 2021 indeed please God we will let you and we'll sing a few songs to celebrate us you bet you bet and you know you are the in in some ways you're in the coldface of the situation with covid because from teaching in school that must be a pretty stressful situation well to be honest, it was very like we we all wanted to get better. All teachers wanted to get back but we were kind of worried how would this work and both we all been together and all in our school now we had to go through meetings over the summer and we went into this all by a zoom and we went into our own classrooms and lots of ways that we could make the room safer so i know we all moved furniture we got rid of rid as much as much as we could inside in the classroom that there'd be more room for the children to be separating the tables and there was car strike screens put up and on tables as well to divide the children and their pods and it's um just trying our best with sanitizing and making sure that the children they can work in their pod but not to mix them with other tables and which is particularly hard and yards when children are so young and they're playing and it's it's it is hard for children.

It's hard for everyone but at the same time it's great to be back in its routine and there's children learning and the teaching learning going on and assume this normality for children and so that's that's kind of makes it worthwhile that they're they are learning and as I know at different times but we're keeping trying our best anyway and keeping the best side out and it seems to be okay, so far anyway, for the most part I know there's some schools that are are badly affected but you know these things happen so we just have to have to move on and hopefully it'll all pass and we'll be all back to normal again.

Indeed, that's all that's all we can hope for listen Annmarie it's been fascinating speaking to you well done on all your achievements so far good luck and doing the masters and  once again to yourself and your family and your fiancé,  let's all have a great Christmas or as good as it can be in the times we've got and also  listen here's your brighter new year and I'm looking forward to receiving your new album. I would like to add my cards and I'll be sending it onto you straight away and thank you very much for the opportunity of the interviews and um I'm delighted to be on your show and I'd like to wish all your listeners a very merry Christmas and a happy and healthy new year.

Trudi Lalor is an Irish country music singer, radio presenter, and magazine editor. Born on March 23, 1972, in Portlaoise, County Laois, she is the youngest of 11 children. She began singing at a young age, performing at events like weddings and with local musical societies.

Some key points about her career include:

• She joined Hazel Records and released her first EP, "Money Talks," which received considerable airplay.
  
  
• She gained a significant career break in 1993 when she fronted Louise Morrissey's band while Morrissey was recovering from a car crash.
  
  
• She has since fronted her own band and has become a well-known figure in the British and Irish country music scene.
  
  
• Lalor has received several awards, including "Female Entertainer of the Year" and "Female Vocalist of the Year" from Hot Country Sky TV.
  
  
• She has released multiple albums and singles, with some of her notable songs including "Old Friends Are Best" and "Lovely Laois."
  
  
• In addition to her music, she is the editor of RSVP Country magazine and, along with her husband Billy Morrissey, founded "Reach Out Radio."​
  
  
• She is married to Billy Morrissey, who is also her manager, promoter, and a songwriter. They live in Tipperary.
  

Introduction
Irish singer Trudi Lawlor has captivated audiences with her soulful voice and emotive performances. She has gained recognition as a talented musician, songwriter, and performer in her native country and beyond. In this thesis, we will explore the life and career of Trudi Lawlor, from her early beginnings to her current success as an acclaimed musician.

Early Life
Trudi Lawlor was born in Dublin, Ireland in 1985. She grew up in a musical family, with both her parents being professional musicians. From a young age, Trudi showed a natural talent for singing and performing. Her parents encouraged her passion for music and she started taking singing lessons at the age of 7.

Musical Influences
Growing up in a household filled with music, Trudi was exposed to a variety of genres and styles. Her parents' love for folk and traditional Irish music had a strong influence on her, and she often performed with them at local festivals and events. However, Trudi was also drawn to contemporary pop and rock music, and she cites artists such as Fleetwood Mac, Joni Mitchell, and Alanis Morissette as her main musical influences.

Career Beginnings
Trudi's career as a professional musician began in her late teens when she started performing at local pubs and clubs. She quickly gained a following with her powerful vocals and unique blend of folk and pop music. In 2005, she released her first EP, which received positive reviews and earned her a spot as a supporting act for established Irish artists.

Breakthrough
In 2008, Trudi's career took a major turn when she was signed to a major record label. Her debut album, 'Broken Dreams,' was released in 2009 and received critical acclaim. The album showcased Trudi's exceptional songwriting skills and her ability to convey raw emotions through her music. It also earned her a nomination for Best New Artist at the Irish Music Awards.

International Success
Trudi's success in her home country soon caught the attention of international audiences. In 2012, she embarked on her first international tour, performing in the UK, Europe, and the United States. Her unique sound and passionate performances garnered rave reviews and she quickly gained a loyal fan base outside of Ireland.

Collaborations
Throughout her career, Trudi has collaborated with various artists, both Irish and international. She has worked with renowned musicians such as Damien Rice, Glen Hansard, and Hozier, to name a few. These collaborations have not only expanded her musical horizons but have also exposed her to new audiences and helped her gain recognition as a respected musician in the industry.

Evolution of Sound
As Trudi's career progressed, her music evolved. While she still maintains her folk roots, her sound has become more diverse and experimental. She has incorporated elements of soul, blues, and even electronica into her music, resulting in a unique and captivating sound. This evolution has not only kept her music fresh and interesting but has also allowed her to reach a wider audience.

Impact and Legacy
Trudi Lawlor's impact on the Irish music industry cannot be overstated. She has paved the way for other female artists and has been a role model for aspiring musicians. Her honest and heartfelt lyrics have resonated with listeners and her powerful vocals have moved audiences. She has also used her platform to raise awareness for social and environmental issues, further solidifying her role as a respected and influential figure in the music industry.

Conclusion
In conclusion, Trudi Lawlor is a talented and versatile musician who has made a significant impact in the music industry. From her early beginnings in a musical family to her current success as an acclaimed artist, she has constantly pushed boundaries and evolved as an artist. Her music continues to touch the hearts of many and her legacy will undoubtedly live on for years to come.

​I'm Jerry Burne.[ Interview with Trudi Lawlor on Irish music radio ]Now I've got a lady online  with a fascinating  tale of  reaching out and it really is truly truly reaching out it's a huge what's become a huge project within this only this past couple of weeks and the times we've got in it i'm delighted to say hello once again to the one and only  singer extraordinaire Trudi Lawlor. Trudi how are you ? hello Jerry, I'm delighted to talk to you and thank you very much for having me on your show, a real pleasure Trudi real pleasure, listen you're involved with uh a fascinating project at the minute which is just so full of positivity and it's it's all about reaching out can you tell us how did how did this all come about we can of course no problem Jerry. Yes my husband Billy Morrissey and I we were out walking and Billy's involved obviously the Irish country music business as a promoter and as a manager and as a songwriter for the last 40 years and I myself you know with singing and have a radio show another road 25 years this year in Irish country music so we were speaking about the pandemic, and the effect it has been having on the fans of the Irish country music scene.

 And why we as singers and performers are remaining positive and optimistic that things will come back next year a lot of the fans are struggling because most of them based their lives and their social lives around seeing their favorite country singer so would be a lovely idea you know if we could get our fans of the music connecting to their favorite country singer. So the idea behind it is to connect as many fans as possible of Irish country music with their favorite Irish country star but it's done in a different way it's asking people the public to nominate somebody that they believe is deserving of a personal phone call from their favorite Irish country star and we're going to try to make it happen and thankfully already it's only up and running about I think eight days at this stage and we've already been able to organize over thirteen hundred phone calls from all different stars from Daniel O'Donnell and Margo, Nathan Carter, Derek Ryan Paddy O'Brien, all the artists from the stadium artists to the artists on the road 20 30 years to a lot of the newcomers like Alex Rowe and Sabrina father Olivia Douglas all those artists.

 So everybody is involved there's over 74  of Irish country artists involved in this  project. so Billy and I are the founders of it, and we're doing you know I suppose I'm the middle woman connecting the fan with the singer. We have a great team around us lots of volunteers and we have a facebook page that's actually set up especially to take all the requests and dedications and it's called reach out and it's run by Debbie Dowler who's a great girl here in Ireland and she's organized it and then a lot of people are contacting me on my own public facebook private messaging me as well and nominating somebody they believe is deserving of a personal phone call from their favorite Irish country star and words delighted we never thought it would be this big we never thought it would snowball so quickly and it has Jerry and we're delighted. It's full of positivity, the joy the happiness that these people fans of artists that are receiving these calls it's been incredible fantastic that is fantastic now to get it on facebook. It's reach out it's two words reach out yeah and you can get it there now I believe you've had a you know an astounding you were saying you've done standard response from all of the artists but also the uh the response that you've had from from people.

 I mean you this has gone truly international you've got people like you know from Australia and and all over the world. Yes very quickly it went international I mean obviously we have so many people from London Irish living in London, Manchester and Scotland .But what we're now getting we're now seeing in the last few days is people reaching out to us from New Zealand, from Australia from Hong Kong, today epic Daniel O'Donnell fan contacted us and nominating somebody and they're over in Hong Kong Canada Alabama, heavily requested Philomena Begley's part of the project Susan McCann just you know it's it's unbelievable the response.

 We cannot believe it and we are connecting as many as we can that are deserving of the phone call it's not enough jerry to nominate somebody who is just a fan of a singer and who you know will eventually get back to seeing them you know these are people that are isolating recovering from covert living alone as special children also a lot of moms and dads that are homeschooling finding it very very difficult and an awful lot of frontline workers have been nominated as well who obviously are just so overworked at the moment and on their day off they're receiving a call from their favorite Irish country star. And as a result of that  they're being connected and it's re-energizing them for their next shift and one woman, one woman is a nurse she's actually a north in London and she's over 10 covid patients at the moment and she she was just a good friend and her favorite singer was Declan Nerney. 

So we were able to make those that call happen for her and the woman that nominated her was a family member who knew the stress that she was under in the hospital in London and the sister rang is back to say I cannot explain how much that has meant to my sister she's now gone back into work and she's a new pep in her step just from that simple phone call. It meant so much to her because she adored Declan Nerney and from down through the years. So all these positive stories Jerry is it's putting some sparkle back into life again some optimism, some happiness, some joy, because the news is very depressing day in and day out and it's it's not good for people or their mental well-being to face another year of that so this is something that we believe it's time for a bit of positivity and optimism and we will all be back performing and singing again for all the fans but in the meantime this is something that Billy and I are delighted to be doing and and more importantly to have 70 artists write down as I said from Daniel, Doster And Allen heavily involved friend and shine hugely involved the three amigos are there you know Sandy Kelly of Jerry cottery as John mcnicho so many stars are part of this full project reach out project and we're delighted to be reaching out.

 Indeed it's absolutely fantastic just see a you know a list of our trust you know some of the people I mean it's you know I'd be here for about an hour and listing them all out at the stage I mean it's it's everybody involved in but it is absolutely fantastic and it's actually interesting you should say the story about the the lady who's a nurse here in London. I have spoken actually to to nurses on the front line here in London and it is pretty horrific honestly and I'm delighted that that  you know that something that this can be done and the thing about it is truly it's it's uh it really is such a simple idea it's a simple idea very simple idea and of course lots of the country music singers down through the years would have been keeping in touch with their fans but this has gone global this is a movement this, these are people that our country singers may never have been able to speak to before but the people would be fans but maybe they would go home at the end of the show not everyone goes up to meet the artist or you know they might buy the cd's in a record shop or online might never get to meet the artist but could be a big fan of theirs or else it could be a fan.

But is missing that loss of connection, because so many people come to country music shows and dances and concerts that are on their own and they meet the singer and they meet the band and they meet the other fellow dancers or fellow concert corps so as you know Jerry only too well you know in Irish country music it's very unique to other genres of music. We're like one big family there, is no division or barrier between the fan and the performer at the end of every country in Irish show right before I was ever in it when Big Tom and Larry Cunningham and Margo who is still alive and well and and flying it as we say she's doing so well and they would always have come down from the stage at the end of the show and shake hands and get photographs and sign cd's with their fans.

 So that's unique to Irish country music and therefore when the fans don't get to see their favorite singer it affects them. It affects them emotionally and mentally so this is a pick me up saying come on we'll be back next year 2022 will be huge for the music industry but for the next year we have to stay going and we thought we have to stay going with positivity and that's very important and this is what's happening. So as I said I encourage so many people out there that are listening into history to please do contact us but contact us to nominate somebody deserving and we have an awful lot of people living in the U.K. and that weren't able to get home at Christmas to see their loved ones either mums or dads or grandparents and they're struggling with that they feel that, that they're not able to be here in Ireland and be able to you know contact their families as much as they'd like to be able to.

 So it's a gift that they can give as well to their loved ones back in Ireland by getting their favorite star to ring their mom dad granddad whoever friend neighbour that's what this project is all about and we're delighted so all they have to do is connect it with the reach out facebook page private message Debbie Dowler is regardless running it for us or come on to my own public facebook page Trudi Lawler t-r-u-d-i l-a-l-o-r and private message me and I am seeing those messes I'm going through them. There's obviously hundreds and hundreds coming in every day but we're getting through them and we're and we're we're able to see the ones that are really deserving of the phone call and we have a team working at that as well and again it's, it's just something we're delighted Ray Lynom and rank people today ray is such a legend and Derek Ryan, hugely popular as well everybody is involved in this project and we're just delighted to be able to give back to the fans that have supported all of us down through the years.

 It's just a very simple phone call but we're doing it and Daniel has been incredible, Margo O'Donnell Nathan Carter, all the big names but also all the newcomers have been incredible people that are only on the road a year they're reaching out to their new audience of Irish country music as well so everybody has a place in this project and we're delighted delighted to have founded it and delighted that it's going global it's brilliant absolutely superb so basically if you contact you on your facebook Trudy Lawler or go to the facebook page reach uh and then separately out and if you want to contact uh Deborah Dowler is that on facebook as well Judy she's also on facebook as well absolutely you know the retail page is better because it's all about our projects and but also Jerry a lot of people might be on social media so even if you do I don't know if you'll be willing to do that but if they do contact your show maybe just send over those messages or even contact my own um website and you'll be able to email us if you want and there's also phone numbers now we're not in a position to take all loads of calls but we will do our best we want to do our best for as many fans as is possible we're not going to get to everybody the singers are already working overtime some of them they're making so many calls but they are buzzing. 

They want this to continue for as long as it's necessary for the next number of months this will be going on probably for the next year but it's so exciting it's positive and and we're doing our best to connect as many as we can absolutely fantastic stuff it really is and listen uh what a what a great idea well done to you to billy and yourself and indeed Deborah and and everybody else involved with it i mean it's a you know we say it's it's it's a huge project on its you know it's just full of positivity in a time where as you say a positivity can be a in scarce supply so listen well done on a great stuff well thank you so much to d jerry and we're also very excited because on the strength of this all the singers we just all spoke about uh how well it's all going and how much it's meaning to so many people and they all said well next is you you need to come up with a song we all need to sing a song so i was very fortunate again billy looked out we all looked out for songs and there was nothing suitable and Nathan actually said to believe why don't you write one so Billy has written one with Max t Barnes Nashville singer, songwriter and legend Max t Barnes and Billy have written a beautiful song called reach out and all 74 performers in this project are going to be singing on us every one of us are going to be singing on it and it's amazing.

 It's going to be the biggest ever coming together of Irish country music singers on one single and we're so thankful to Jonathan Owens who is producing the whole single for us all the recording studios are involved in helping to facilitate the singers because obviously with we're we're in lockdown here in i know you're saying as well jerry so none of us can go past the 5k  here. So therefore there's so many people working behind the scenes to make this single and and it will be released in the next week to 10 days uh with all the policies going to child line and the i.s.p.c.c. their very deserving charity so there's a lot happening and it's the Irish country music family again and we are thrilled and proud of all the artists in it they're all stepping up every single one of them are stepping up to the place and phoning fans and we're delighted so just to nominate somebody go on to the reach out facebook page or my own published facebook page and please do message me and don't feel we won't see it we will see it and we'll do our very best to connect as many people as possible that deserve the phone call from their favorite Irish country star now that's absolutely excellent Trudi list I'm looking forward to getting the the single I dare say there are people in studios uh Jonathan Owens and others included who will have some headache mixing in 74 different voices exactly but they're brilliant and even you know jerry you would know Jonathan's late dad chocolate chuck and June and the gamblers they were huge and and choked only passed away a couple of weeks ago so even in a time of Jonathan grieving he wanted to reach out to the movement and say you know I want to give my time over to this project i want this single to to be able to produce it and give back and so we're getting that love and support and Wayne throws and peter mar all the studios uh in a Letterkennyy and there's so many of them getting involved but we as singers and performers are getting such a buzz out of this as well and we're delighted delighted that everybody is reaching out in this project absolutely brilliant Trudi listen, has been lovely to talk to you listen regards to yourself and Billy and everybody else involved in it listen lovely to speak to you again Trudi. Thank you so much Jerry and thank you for reaching out to us and continued success with your radio show we love we love looking energy and listening into it thank you very much.
Trudi Lawlor recorded Gentle Mother song which was a big hot for Big Tom.