Nerves keep performance real for Ryan
Ryan McIntyre is no stranger to singing in front of large crowds but the nerves started to set in just prior to taking the stage at Morrinsville High School.
‘‘Man I’m nervous. I went to this very school and finished here about 10 years ago.
‘‘Some of the faces have changed and some have stayed. My 1st XV coach is in the audience and it’s good to be back here with my family after a few years away.’’
McIntyre was among the performers who starred at this year’s Morrinsville Country Music Club Spectacular.
The event included a matinee show and an evening show on Saturday, both held at the college’s hall.
Speaking prior to his matinee performance, McIntyre said he was looking forward to having the opportunity to sing with his mum, Sharon, in one of the three songs he’d planned for the show.
‘‘When I was asked by the committee to perform at the show this year, my first question to them was whether or not I could sing with my mum.’’
The committee welcomed the idea. Sharon McIntyre is a wellknown member of the club and at the Spectacular, was singing harmonies with Rose Hack, for The Renny Hantler Band, which provided the live music for each performer.
‘‘I think mum is the reason why I have enjoyed singing.
‘‘So to be able to get up there and sing a song with her, and Rose, is cool.’’
Over the years McIntyre competed in many awards shows, competitions and featured at the New Zealand Entertainer of the Year, both as a soloist and in groups when he was younger.
He said shows like the Spectacular were important to keep country music alive in the community. And when it came to writing songs, in the country genre, there were no limits.
‘‘You can talk about your dog dying or getting revenge on someone.
‘‘The Dixie Chicks wrote a