By Kate Heaney
DONEGAL born singer-songwriter Maria McCormack will officially launch her radio station ‘Over the West Online Radio’ in what promises to be a festive celebration of music at the Devlin Hall in Letterkenny on Saturday next, May 18.
Tune in or call down to the Devlin Hall, once home of dancing in the town, where there will be live music performances, special guests and the official switch on of Over the West Online Radio which already has some 350 artists in its all-Irish jukebox.
Speaking to the Donegal News this week entrepreneur Maria, who hails from Churchill but now lives in Letterkenny, explained how she started the radio station in November and secured the necessary licenses.
“I am a singer and a songwriter since 2019 and over the years I have tried to help other artists get their work out there. My motto for the station is ‘if you create it we will play it’. I am getting their music out to the public where they may have not even had a response after sending it to other mainstream outlets. It is very disheartening for singer-songwriters when this happens and some people stop making music because of it.
“I realised there was a massive need for a platform dedicated to Ireland’s emerging artists. We have 350 artists in our All-Irish Jukebox, DJs from every corner of the island and we showcase talent from local areas and beyond and get them playtime on other stations,” Maria said.
She recently heard from a girl from Downings who had begun recording a song before lockdown.
She only finished it when she discovered Maria’s station and knew Maria’s station would play it.
“I am not in competition with anyone and we play all different genres of music all of the time,” she added.
The launch party at 3pm at the Devlin Hall will be a celebration of Ireland’s musical diversity and a testament to the vibrant talent the country has to offer.
“We aim to kickstart a movement that celebrates the rich tapestry of Irish music and fosters a supportive community for both listeners and artists alike. Come along and join the music revolution or go to the website at overthewestonlineradio.com.”
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