THE QUEENS OF COUNTRY BRING THE HOUSE DOWN ON THE LATE LATE SHOW WITH SHOW-STOPPING FINALE
It was a night to remember on RTÉ’s Late Late Show Country Special as three of Ireland’s most iconic voices — Philomena Begley, Margo, and Susan McCann — closed the evening with a rousing medley that had the audience on its feet. Billed as the “Queens of Country,” the trio lived up to their title, delivering a finale that blended power, nostalgia, and pure joy.
The performance began with a heartfelt rendition of “Your Cheatin’ Heart,” the Hank Williams classic that set a soulful, emotional tone. The stage lights dimmed, the band leaned into the familiar melody, and Begley’s unmistakable voice carried the song with the authority of decades spent at the top of her craft.
From there, the medley shifted gears into “Stand By Your Man,” with Margo leading the vocals. Her delivery was tender yet commanding, reminding viewers why she has long been regarded as one of Ireland’s most beloved country performers. The audience responded instantly, many singing along to a song that has become an anthem across generations.
Then came the playful fire of “Good Girls Gonna Go Bad,” brought to life by Susan McCann. With a wink and a grin, McCann infused the stage with energy, showing that her voice and charisma remain as strong as ever. Her performance sparked cheers and laughter, a reminder of her unique ability to blend fun with technical brilliance.
The finale reached its peak with “Take Me Home, Country Roads,” the John Denver classic that transformed the studio into a singalong. With all three legends joining voices, the audience rose to its feet, clapping and singing as the melody filled the air. For a few minutes, the entire studio felt united — performers, band, and crowd — in a moment of pure musical celebration.
For viewers at home, the medley was more than just entertainment; it was a celebration of Irish country music’s enduring place in the nation’s culture. Each of the three women has carved out her own path over decades, and together they represent the strength, resilience, and passion of a genre that continues to thrive.
The standing ovation that followed said it all. These Queens of Country not only honored the classics but reminded audiences of their own remarkable legacies. As the credits rolled, the echoes of their voices lingered — a fitting close to a night that celebrated tradition, talent, and the timeless power of song.