Mayo singer is victorious in TG4 hit series Glór Tíre 2023

Ireland's new Country Music star is Mayo singer Seán Fahy, who turned in a powerful performance at the final of Glór Tíre, TG4’s long running, hit country music series.

In an exciting final, broadcast live on TG4 tonight, Seán’s spirited renditions of ‘Seven Spanish Angels’ - a song made famous by Willie Nelson and Ray Charles - and Tanya Tucker’s ‘Texas (When I Die)’ saw him beat stiff competition from Tipperary singer Molly O’Connell and Carlow/Wicklow singer-songwriter Noel Boland to take the coveted title of Glór Tíre Country Music champion.

“I’m absolutely delighted,” said Seán.

“To be chosen as the winner over the likes of the talent that was on stage this evening, I am over the moon, and the support from Mayo and the cheers and the roars just drove me on more.”

Seán’s victory comes on a very special anniversary for him as an artist and performer.

“I’ve been singing for the last 10 years,” he stated.

“I actually did my very first pub gig on this day, the 21st of February, ten years ago. So it's my ten year anniversary. What a way to celebrate it.”

Seán, a secondary school teacher from the Gaeltacht town of Belmullet, was very conscious of being the only west of Ireland contestant on season 19 of Glór Tíre, and he has thanked the people of Mayo for getting behind him and voting for him as Glór Tíre winner.

“I’d have always realised that Mayo would be a great county for support with the likes of the GAA,” he stated, “but it’s a completely different feeling when it’s behind you and you’re the one they are supporting.

“Thank you each and every one of you for getting behind me - everyone from Mayo, the west of Ireland, and around the country. It really lifted my spirits when I heard my name being called out up there.”

Seán’s victory is also a victory for Donegal country singer David James, who was Seán’s mentor for the series.

David described Seán as an artist who “really has the whole package”.

“David James is an absolute gent,” said Seán.

“He has been so supportive throughout this whole process. Without him this would not have been possible. He’s been up and down to Connemara to support me, he’s been on the other end of the phone wherever I want him, and I really thank him for this opportunity.”

Glór Tíre, produced by Gael Media, is widely recognised as an important platform for Country Music in Ireland and an invaluable stepping stone in the careers of emerging Country singers.

Seán is determined that this opportunity is one he will make the most of.

“Glór Tíre has been absolutely amazing,” he said.

“I always said, if I was ever to do Glór Tíre, I was going to use the show as a platform and keep building on that.

"I have a single coming out next week, which I’m very excited about - watch my social media for all the details - and you might see me at a concert or a country dance up and down the country.”

Anyone who witnessed Seán’s performance on the Glór Tíre final saw that this relative newcomer is able to work the stage like an old pro. What motivates that love of singing and performance?

“It’s really the buzz of the crowd,” stated Seán.

“If I see the audience enjoying themselves on stage, I’m enjoying myself on stage. It really is that interaction.”

It certainly seems that Seán and his legions of new fans will have many such interactions to look forward to in the times ahead.