Mick Hanly is playing in Gaoth Dobhair this weekend.
‘Take a look at the stars for a moment, if you have a moment to spare’ – beautifully poetic words written by renowned singer/songwriter Mick Hanly who is making a welcome to return to Donegal thanks to non-profit event organisers Tionscnamh Lugh as part of this year’s Earagail Arts Festival.
The Limerick singer, who will be performing at Ionad Naomh Padraig, Gaoth Dobhair on Saturday, July 14, is not only known for writing the US hit Past The Point Of Rescue, originally released by Hal Ketchum.
This song scooped him two BMI awards, was most played song of 1993 with one million radio plays but his other songs have also been recorded by household Irish names, including Dolores Keane (My Love Is In America) and Christy Moore (All I Remember).
Christy Moore said of Hanly: “In my memory Mick (Hanly) sang this song to me in Connolly Hall Cork circa 1981. His words have been corrupted over the years as I sang it in sheebeens and concert halls.
“It describes fittingly the 50s and 60s groping with adolescence whilst gettin’ the head bate off of us by frustrated bog trotters dying from the lack of horn pleasure if not the horn itself, love and companionship too, the poor hures.”
Hanly has worked with them all, from his days with Moving Hearts, after taking over from Christy Moore, to collaborating with artists such as Mary Black or Andy Irvine and all of whom admire the Limerick man’s touch when it comes to lyrics.
“We have been doing these concerts for the past 19 years and we’re once again delighted to be working hand-in-hand with the Earagail Arts Festival to bring you such an esteemed songwriter as Thomastown’s own Mick Hanly,” said Ian Smith, Tionscnamh Lugh.
His good friend and guitar virtuoso, Arty McGlynn, who will add colour to the beautiful words sung by the Limerick singer, will join Mick on the night.
As he has done with great success in the past in West Donegal Mick will once again do a workshop before his concert, from 3 to 5pm. to help budding songwriters with some vital pointers that help them hone their craft further. For more information call 0866050110.