WICKHAM MEETS DEPP
THERE was much praise for the musicians who took to the stage for Shane McGowan’s 60 th birthday bash recently.
Among the celebrated artists including Bono, Nick Cave and Hollywood actor Johnny Depp was Sligo’s very own Steve Wickham.
The Waterboys and
NoCrows violinist was performing alongside Bono and Depp for the birthday celebration in the National Concert Hall.
Other performers on the night included Sinead O’Connor and Imelda May.
The late Dolores O’Riordan also received a standing ovation during the concert.
Steve said: “It was great, an absolutely fantastic night and there were some really big names performing, Bono, Johnny Depp, Sinead O’Connor and Nick Cave, it was a really star-studded night for Shane.
“Johnny Depp was actually a good guitar player, I was in front of the amp and he was very good and it was great to play with Bono too. Sinead was in my first band and Bono was on my first recording so it was great to perform up there.
“Shane is actually related to me as a cousin through marriage. We’ve met each other over the years.
“It was a really great 60 th birthday, Sharon Shannon and The Waterboys are old friends too.
“There were a couple of Sligo heads up there too, Shane Donnelly and Colin Gillen were there, Shane hangs out in Grange so he has friends there.”
Steve said the after-show bash was incredible too, with the Sex Pistols singer performing, so too was Catatonia’s Cerys Matthews and Mundy did a great version of Galway Girl.
“Everyone was in such great form, it was a brilliant night,” Steve added. The musician is currently working on a play following the only Irishman who died in Auschwitz. “Along with Gerry Leonard we’re writing the music for that. Then I go on tour with the Lost Brothers in February, with NoCrows in March and The Waterboys will be touring in April and May,” Steve added.