Rising Country star Effie vying for the finals of TG4’s Glór Tíre

The TG4 Glór Tíre Contest, which is a firm favourite with fans of country music, has a local dimension this time round, with Ardgroom native Effie Neill vying for the winning spot in the final of the contest which is set to take place on Tuesday, April 23rd.

21-year-old Effie has been singing locally for several years, but her star began to ascend to new heights after she won the 2023 Cowboys & Heroes Singing competition. Following on from her win, Effie headed for the studio, recording her very first single entitled ‘Country is Best’ written by Ballydaly songwriter Niall O’Brien.

The song, showcasing Effie’s unique vocals, took social media by storm achieving in excess of 100,000 views and generating interest from radio stations countrywide. Her star continued to ascend when Michael English heard her sing at an event and invited her to become a contestant in Glór Tíre.

Speaking to The Corkman on Monday morning, as she was on her way home after performing at a series of shows in Scotland, Effie said: “I’m thrilled to be among the finalists in Glór Tíre, it’s a fabulous platform for my music and a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I want to say a huge thanks to everyone who has helped me get to this stage and I look forward to meeting you all at one of my Shows in the future.”

There is no doubt that Effie will have strong support from her colleagues and friends at

Kenmare Mart where she works as a receptionist. Councillor Dan McCarthy, who is Mart Manager, said: “We are so proud of Effie, she has amazing talent and has huge potential in the country music scene. She is very well liked by all of our customers here at the Mart and has a great way with people. We wish her the very best of luck in the final”.

Effie is also employed at Castletownbere Pharmacy where staff members and customers wished her the best of luck.

Hot Country TV Proprietor Hugh O’ Brien added his good wishes: “Effie is a breath of fresh air in country music and music in general with her great voice. She is also a very good communicator with people and I have no doubt will go to the top in a short while. She’s prepared to work hard in a tough business and will leave no stone unturned till she gets to the top.”

Ballydaly native Niall O’Brien who penned two of Effie’s recent hit songs said that he is delighted that his songs went so well for her and wished her every success in the final.

Needless to say, Effie is hoping she will secure the majority of the public vote in the Glór Tíre Final on April 23.

To vote, download the Glór Tíre App and wait until the presenter declares voting lines open before sending your text.