COWGIRLS AND COUNTRY STARS IN MALLOW
FANS SHAKE OFF THE SHOWERS FOR A FANTASTIC DAY OF COUNTRY MUSIC
Local girls Lily O’Callaghan and Ava Nagle were thrilled to meet Nathan Carter at the phenomenal Country Music Festival in Mallow last weekend
SOME punters at the North Cork Country Music Festival reckoned that organisers had “a direct line to the man above” when, despite the appalling weather forecast and torrential downpours in many neighbouring areas, Mallow GAA Sports Complex in Carrigoon remained dry and balmy throughout the day on Sunday until around 6.30pm when the first heavy showers arrived.
Indeed, at that time Nathan Carter had the audience so fired up it’s doubtful they would have noticed if a flood of biblical proportions had descended on them.
Many country music fans went the whole hog donning cowboy gear in all colours and styles, and organisers had set the tone around the grounds with bales of hay to sit on, while several outlets supplying refreshments, and superb music throughout the day providing the icing on the cake..
C103 Presenter Colm McGrath was MC for the event and kept the audience entertained throughout.
Declan Nerney who had two more gigs to fulfil after his appearance in Mallow got things off to a flying start at 1pm. He was followed by Louise Morrissey who told The Corkman that she was delighted to be part of the festival.
“I love these open air events, the atmosphere is fantastic” she said.
Remarking on the economic recovery which has also impacted positively on the music business, she said that things appear to be in full swing again, “all the big outdoor festivals are back, and that’s fantastic for the business” she said.
Jimmy Buckley was next to take to the stage and he soon had the large crowd singing along to his many hits such as the ‘ Tennessee Border’, ‘ The Trucker’s Wallet’, and ‘My Galway Queen’.
Glaswegian Lisa McHugh, who is one of the bright young stars of the Irish country scene, had a huge following who knew all the lyrics of her songs and joined in with gusto. Following her performance, Lisa was heading off to the Woodlands Hotel in Adare for a later gig.
The sense of excitement was palpable as 5.30pm approached with headline act Nathan Carter about to appear on stage
The star arrived in a white jeep flanked by several minders and four Gardaí. Nathan took a few minutes to speak to The Corkman prior to going on stage.
“It’s fantastic to see such a great crowd here, thanks to everyone for supporting country music and keeping it alive and well, said Nathan.
He also paid tribute to everyone who helped make his ‘Living the Dream’ album yet another number one hit.
“I hope to be back in Mallow soon again” he said before delivering his usual superb show.
Barry John Ryan speaking to The Corkman on behalf of the Organising Committee said that as a venue for a major Festival, Mallow GAA Complex had delivered spectacularly.
“While the weather forecast discouraged the walk up business on the actual day, nevertheless we had a fantastic attendance and everyone enjoyed a great day” Barry John said. He paid tribute to organisers, Mallow GAA stewards, the Gardaí, complex staff, Tekken Security, and various other volunteers who together ensured a safe and enjoyable day for all who attended.