Country ’N’ Irish Medley on The Late Late Show – A Celebration of Tradition and Harmony
When Ireland’s flagship talk programme, The Late Late Show, stages its annual Country Music Special, the atmosphere is always primed for heartwarming nostalgia and communal spirit. Nothing captures that spirit better than the Country ’N’ Irish Medley, a joyful collaboration featuring beloved artists such as Brendan Shine, Foster and Allen, TR Dallas, and Louise Morrissey. Performed live on RTÉ One, this medley is more than a showcase—it’s a celebration of all that country-Irish music stands for: tradition, connection, and a shared cultural heritage
A Tapestry of Iconic Tunes
The medley blends several classic tracks that shine in both lyrical depth and emotional resonance:
-
“Lobby Washed Down” – A lively opener, filled with upbeat rhythms and sing-along appeal;
-
“Old Flames” – A lament of lost love, rich with emotional texture;
-
“Slievenamon” – A stirring Irish folk melody, reminding listeners of the soul-stirring beauty of the Irish countryside;
-
“Hard to Be Humble” – A lighthearted yet meaningful closer that wraps the performance in laughter and unity
Each segment marries traditional country stylings with deep-rooted Irish influences, defining the unique genre known as Country and Irish (also cheery referred to as “Culchie and Western”)The Significance of the Medley
-
Cultural Resonance – This medley transcends mere performance; it’s a living record of Ireland’s affinity for country music and storytelling. Anchored in the Country and Irish tradition, the style merges American country with Irish folktales, appealing especially to rural and multi-generational audiences .
-
Shared Performance Brilliance – Each contributing artist is a seasoned performer in their own right. Brendan Shine brings a warmth and genuineness that’s instantly recognizable. Foster and Allen is celebrated for their harmonious blend and light entertainment value. TR Dallas adds contemporary energy, while Louise Morrissey provides melodic flair and vocal nuance. Together, they create a sense of generosity and camaraderie on stage.
-
Community and Connection – With an audience that includes devoted fans, families, and guests from rural communities across Ireland, the medley becomes a bridge—uniting people through music that echoes shared memories and collective identity. For older, discerning listeners, it’s a nostalgic link to their roots; for younger viewers, it’s a gateway to Ireland’s rich musical traditions.
-
Showcasing RTÉ’s Role – The Late Late Show, by inviting such performances, reinforces RTÉ’s role as a cultural hub. Performing live on stage showcases the network’s trust in artists’ authenticity and preserves an important genre within contemporary media
Why This Matters Today
Despite not always making international headlines, this medley shines as a testament to music’s enduring power to unite. In an age when entertainment can feel fragmented, gatherings like the Late Late Country Special offer rare moments of unity—where generations resonate together, voices join in chorus, and traditions are passed on. The performance isn’t just seen—it’s felt.
For those who connect with music on a profound level, this medley offers a soulful resonance. Its songs are familiar companions, and its delivery, rich in authenticity, embodies the emotional honesty that country-Irish music promises.