Mayo singer pays tribute to Big Tom
Singer Mick Mulhern has released a new song in memory of the late Big Tom.
Country singer Mick Mulhern has released a new song called – a tribute to country music legend, Big Tom, timed to coincide with the Big Tom Weekend in Castleblaney, Co Monaghan, on September 19th, 20th and 21st next.
From the scenic village of Ballyvary, Mick Mulhern has emerged as one of the most respected and celebrated voices in the Irish country music scene. With a sound deeply influenced by iconic country legends like George Jones and Charley Pride, Mick has carved out his own unique musical identity. His voice, rich with power and emotion, captures the timeless essence of classic country music while infusing it with a personal touch that resonates with listeners of all ages.
Mick’s journey in music began early, drawing on the traditional sounds of his rural Irish upbringing, yet his passion for country music took him on a path that would see him become one of Ireland’s most sought-after country artists. His two critically acclaimed albums, and , have topped the charts and earned him widespread recognition, not just in Ireland, but beyond. Both albums feature a mix of original songs and beloved country classics, with Mick’s distinctive voice and honest delivery bringing them to life in a way only he can.
A seasoned performer with years of experience, Mick has earned a loyal fan base who admire his authenticity and ability to connect with an audience. Whether performing in intimate venues or large concert halls, Mick brings an energy and warmth to every stage he graces. His live shows are a perfect blend of music, storytelling, and humour, making each performance an unforgettable experience for his fans.
Mick’s new song was written by PJ Murrihy, the well-known singer/songwriter from Mullagh in Co Clare.
“I was honoured to be asked to do the song,” Mick said. “I was very friendly with Big Tom and we had many a song together.
"PJ Murrihy is a great songwriter. I have recorded his songs before and when he sent me this one, and Margo asked me to do it, I was delighted to record it. The initial response has been very positive and I will be delighted to perform it at the festival next weekend.”
PJ Murrihy said he wrote the song after Margo (O’Donnell) told him about the commemoration weekend for Big Tom.
“They wanted a song to promote the event, and that’s where I came in.”
PJ quickly put pen to paper.
“I kind of did it in one night – maybe two hours or so. It didn’t take long because I was very familiar with Big Tom. I had written a song for him before, which he recorded.”
Once finished, he sent the song to Margo.
“She thought it was good. I suggested she get somebody to sing it. I had Mick Mulhern in my head – and, as it happened, Margo suggested him too. Mick did a fabulous job on it. His voice really suits the song.”
The new tribute has already been well received. PJ said Daniel O’Donnell had heard it recently and “liked it too,” while others have given it “the thumbs up”.
The Clare songwriter is no stranger to having his work recorded by top Irish artists. Daniel O’Donnell has recorded several of his compositions, including , amongst others, and , which will feature on O’Donnell’s forthcoming album. PJ has also written for Big Tom, Foster and Allen, Patrick Feeney, Margo, Brendan Shine, and John Hogan, and many more.
Margo told the Western People that the Big Tom Weekend is in it’s second year.
“Well, the idea was that last year I got involved in the Big Tom weekend in Castleblaney and part of that is taking place in Oram,” Margo said. “And I thought it would be nice to see how many young artists knew songs of Big Tom's or sang his songs. So we had a competition last year and we had 10 acts and young people from 18 to 25 and they got a lovely plaque. The prize was €5,000 for the winner and the runners-up then got something as well. So it was just in memory of Tom and I didn't expect to run it for another year. It was just in his memory that once, but then they wanted to do it this year again, and I just wanted something like an anthem this year to remember Tom and what he did for Monaghan and Castleblaney and Oram.
“I was talking to PJ and I said, it would be lovely, if he wrote a song that we could use over the weekend. And I thought about Mick Mulhern simply because I like Mick Mulhern singing. I like him as a singer and I like him as a friend as well. And I think he's got something that Big Tom had.
"We're going to have Mick up for the weekend. And, you know, the song is released now and there's a video done for it. So I would love for the song to be well known, and for people to know what he's about."
