“WALK OF LIFE” — OPENING THE LATE LATE COUNTRY SPECIAL 2019 | THE LATE LATE SHOW | RTÉ ONE
When the opening chords of “Walk of Life” rang through the RTÉ Studios in 2019, it was instantly clear that viewers were in for a night to remember. The Late Late Show Country Special, one of Ireland’s most beloved television traditions, kicked off that evening with an electrifying performance that blended energy, nostalgia, and the unmistakable charm of Irish country music’s finest.
The show opened with an all-star cast of performers, led by some of the biggest names in Irish country — Daniel O’Donnell, Cliona Hagan, Mike Denver, Philomena Begley, Trudi Lalor, Nathan Carter, and many more — all joining forces to deliver a rousing rendition of Dire Straits’ classic “Walk of Life.”
It was an unexpected but perfect choice — a song that, though rock in origin, fits seamlessly into the heart and soul of country. The studio audience erupted in applause as the musicians filled the room with toe-tapping rhythm and infectious joy.
Daniel O’Donnell, Ireland’s most enduring country star, took center stage first, greeting the crowd with his familiar warmth and effortless charisma. Beside him, Cliona Hagan beamed with excitement, her powerful vocals blending beautifully with Daniel’s smooth delivery. As the cameras panned across the stage, viewers saw a sea of smiling faces, sequined jackets, guitars, fiddles, and the unmistakable camaraderie that defines the Irish country scene.
The energy was contagious — both inside the studio and across living rooms throughout Ireland. For fans, it was more than an opening number; it was a celebration of everything that makes Irish country music special — community, joy, and connection.
Host Ryan Tubridy later described the performance as “a musical party that felt like home.” And indeed, that’s what the Late Late Show Country Special has always been about. First introduced in the early 2010s, the special quickly became a national favorite — an annual night where the genre’s biggest stars and rising talents come together to honor Ireland’s deep love affair with country music.
The 2019 edition stood out not only for its lineup but for its spirit. From Nathan Carter’s foot-stomping charisma to Philomena Begley’s timeless grace, every artist brought their own magic to the stage. The opening performance of “Walk of Life” set the tone for an evening filled with heartfelt tributes, sing-along classics, and unforgettable collaborations.
For many viewers, it was also a reminder of how music can bring people together across generations. Families gathered around the television, tapping their feet and singing along — grandparents, parents, and children united by the songs that have shaped Irish life for decades.
In the days that followed, social media was flooded with clips from the show, with fans calling the “Walk of Life” opener “the best start yet” to any Late Late Country Special. One viewer wrote, “You could feel the happiness coming through the screen — it reminded us why we love country music.”
Today, years later, that performance remains one of the most memorable in the show’s history — a joyful, shining moment that celebrated not only the music, but the people who keep it alive.
As the final chorus rang out and the crowd rose to its feet, there was no doubt: Ireland’s country heart was beating strong that night.