When it comes to Irish country music, few names carry as much affection and legacy as Big Tom McBride. Known lovingly as “The King of Irish Country,” Big Tom’s voice has echoed through dance halls and radios across Ireland for decades. And in his unforgettable appearance on RTÉ’s The Late Late Show—a performance that lives on in the hearts of many—he delivered a medley of his classic hits that felt less like a concert and more like a homecoming.
This televised moment wasn’t just about the songs—it was about celebrating a national treasure, a man who had spent his life singing about love, loss, loyalty, and the Irish way of life. Backed by a warm and responsive audience, Big Tom’s medley was a beautiful journey through his most beloved tunes, each carrying decades of memories for listeners across generations.
Though the exact air date may vary depending on which tribute performance is being referenced, the emotional atmosphere remains constant. From the opening notes, there’s a palpable sense of nostalgia. The medley typically includes some of his most iconic numbers—“Four Country Roads,” “Gentle Mother,” “Old Log Cabin,” and more—each met with heartfelt applause and often a few tears from longtime fans.
Dressed in his signature modest fashion, Big Tom delivered each line with the unpolished charm that made him so endearing. His voice, though aged, still carried the warmth and sincerity that defined his career. There was no flash or glamor—only truth. And in the hushed reverence of the studio audience, you could feel the depth of respect and love the country held for him.
What makes this performance especially moving is how it became a living tribute. As Ryan Tubridy, host of The Late Late Show, introduced Big Tom, it was with visible reverence. The medley served not just as entertainment, but as an acknowledgment of a life spent giving joy through music, especially to those in rural Ireland who saw Big Tom as one of their own.
For those unfamiliar with Big Tom, this medley is the perfect introduction. For lifelong fans, it’s a moment frozen in time—a celebration of a man whose songs walked beside them through life’s joys and trials. And now, with Big Tom’s passing in 2018, this performance holds even greater weight, standing as a testament to a career that was never about fame, but about faith, community, and staying true to your roots.
In a world that often chases the new, this medley reminds us of the timeless power of honest music—music that speaks to the heart, tells rfor us. And thanks to moments like this on The Late Late Show, his voice continues to sing on.