The name Barry translates to mean ‘fair headed’ and Omagh man Barry Kirwan is indeed the golden boy of the moment. With a musical pedigree, his mum Louise sings, his dad is well known Irish singer Dominic Kirwan and two other brothers musicians it’s hardly possible this talented young man could have considered another career.
Barry was in Australia for a short time a couple of years ago with his job as drummer in fellow Irish singer Derek Ryan’s band. Barry tells me that he loved Australia, or at least what he saw of it, that being mainly Sydney and Melbourne, additionally he has many friends living here. Barry is keen to make a return visit and that may well be on the cards. Only a matter of weeks ago Barry launched his album ‘New Beginnings’ and such an impression he has made saw him being nominated as best newcomer at last week’s RTE Irish Country Music awards. A nomination, the humble Barry says ‘arrived out of the blue’.
For the last four years Barry has been working with his dad Dominic and says the decision to do so was ‘the best thing he’s ever done’ enabling him to gain, he tells me essential experience. Under Dominic’s trusted eyes the initially nervous on stage Barry has blossomed. Listening keenly to his dads advice of ‘try this’ Barry has matured into a consummate musician and stage performer like his dad.
In fact Barry’s stage career has come full circle as it all started with his dad when Barry was a 9 year old Irish dancer appearing on one of Dominic’s DVDs. Barry tells me he performed Irish dancing between the ages of 5 and 18, winning many competitions and is not averse to including some Irish dancing in his own shows down the line.
Although Barry is officially out on his own with his band he will still accompany his dad from time to time, most probably in some shows in Jersey (UK) in December and with the success of Barry and his brothers taking part in a Kirwan family Christmas special last year, that collaboration may be repeated this year.
Barry’s album contains some tunes penned in collaboration with his brother Colm, who he lauds as ‘a great lyricist’. One of the albums offerings include an original song by Colm as well as the two singles ‘Middle of the road’ and a song penned by Barry and Colm ‘Up the jive’.
Barry’s album ‘New Beginnings’ is out now and available from http://www.barrykirwanmusic.com/
Paula Xiberras
