Popular Gene

Gene Stuart as popular as ever in the west

Country Roads
Michael Commins

GENE Stuart (pictured) has never lost his appeal with country music followers in the western region. The Tyrone man, without doubt one of the great ambassadors for the music over many years, got a wonderful reception when he did a guest spot in Digger Jay’s of Ayle last Saturday night week. He was part of a double act which featured new singer Damien Bowe and his band, Branson.
The good news for Gene’s many supporters is that he will be back in Digger Jay’s on Saturday night, August 2, when he will perform his own full show. The Dungannon singer is putting together a band for a few dates around the country and his first gig with them in the west will be in Digger’s. A date for the dancing diary!

Ballinrobe singer among special guests at Gary Quinn’s launch

GALWAY traditional musician, Gary Quinn from Barnaderg, Tuam, will launch his debut album at a show in the McWilliam Park Hotel in Claremorris this Thursday night, July 17.
He will be joined by musicians Matt Keane, Mike McGoldrik (flute), Sean Regan (fiddle), Sean de Burca (piano) and other guests, among them Ballinrobe native Jenny Mulvey.
Jenny is well-known in the locality for her singing talents, which first came to the fore during her school days under the tutelage of Sr Francis and the late Sr Columba in the convent primary school and through singing in the local choir.
Jenny later went on to star in many local musicals and variety shows and is now a popular wedding singer in Galway and Mayo.
Her range is very broad, including traditional Irish music, sean nós and classical music.
While Jenny has not yet devoted herself to singing full-time, one always senses that it is just a matter of time before her true talent is recognised by the right person.

Pat returns for Mayo gigs

EARLIER this year Pat Jordan (pictured) played his first west of Ireland show in Bourke’s of Irishtown. The Manchester-based singer was supported by Mickey Brennan and his band from Manchester and they received a big welcome from the large attendance.
So pleased was Pat with his visit to Mayo that he has arranged to come back for two shows next month. He will play a date in Digger Jay’s on Friday, August 8, and will do a return show in Bourke’s of Irishtown on Saturday, August 9. Kevin Prendergast will be the featured guest on both shows.
“I was very happy with the show in Irishtown and several people asked us to come back again. So we are heading back in August for a few dates, including the two in Mayo. I’ve been to Ibiza and Spain since then and am kept busy on the local circuit back here,” says Pat.
A song from his last album, ‘You’re A Phone Call That I Need To Make’, is a popular favourite with listeners to late night radio on Mid-West.