PAUL BRADY

IT’S LIKE coming home for singer- songwriter Paul Brady, who has strong family connections in Sligo through his father.

And while he has actually attended Sligo Live as an audience member in the past, this time he will be the figurehead as the festival honours his career at a very special night at the Hawk’s Well Theatre.

Yes, Paul Brady, singer, songwriter, and multi- instrumentalist has crossed musical boundaries again and again over his 50- year career.

Originally from the small town of Strabane in County Tyrone, his father Seán played and taught the flute, instilling talent through blood at an early age, with Paul first learning to play the piano and most certainly not stopping there.

But as well as boundaries, Paul’s influence has crossed many borders, with the likes of Tina Turner, Eric Clapton, Joe Cocker and Phil Collins covering his stuff.

After more than half a century in the business, his influence is still seen today, and his versions of ballads like ‘ Lakes of Pontchartrain’ and ‘ Arthur McBride’ are still copied by the newest generation of musicians.

He continues to garner respect and admiration from the country’s young writers and performers, with Glen Hansard, Imelda May and Hozier joining the long list of artists, including Nobel Prize winner Bob Dylan, who hold him in such high regard.

On Friday, 28 October, Sligo fans will get a warm glimpse of one of Ireland’s best ever talents in ‘ An Evening with Paul Brady’ - an invite into his world of songs and music in a way that will surprise in its intimacy, sense of fun and raw power.

This is sure to be a captivating and memorable experience for all in attendance.