A Real Humdinger Indeed: Alistair Fingleton Strikes Gold with Richie Kavanagh Collaboration
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
In the heart of County Kildare, where the landscape is as rich with tradition as it is with community spirit, Alistair Fingleton stands as a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. At 44, Fingleton’s story is one of deep local roots in Castledermot, a family life in Maganey with his wife Debbie and their three children Jack, Ava, and Robyn, and a demanding career as a self-employed Diesel Fitter. Yet, beneath the grease and grind of keeping county-wide machinery running, beats the heart of a musician whose journey is now hitting a truly remarkable stride.
Alistair’s musical inclinations aren’t a recent development; they are deeply ingrained, a legacy inherited from his father, who instilled in him an appreciation for the vibrant showband and country sounds that once defined Irish entertainment. His formal musical education began early, at just nine years old with piano lessons, extending through his school years. By 17, he was already a seasoned performer, traveling nationwide as a keyboardist and vocalist in various bands. This early immersion laid the groundwork for a career that, while sometimes taking a backseat to family and trade, never truly faded.
The global pause of the pandemic proved to be an unexpected catalyst for Fingleton. Having most recently performed with the Joe Davitt Country Band, the enforced break from live shows pushed him into new creative territory: songwriting. His debut composition, “I Miss You More Every Day,” emerged as a poignant tribute to his late father, Jack. This deeply personal creative act reignited his musical fire and set him on a fresh path, opening up possibilities he hadn’t fully explored before.
This rekindled passion soon led to a pivotal moment last year when Alistair was invited to appear on TG4’s prestigious Glór Tíre. Under the mentorship of Michael English, a long-time friend from Castledermot, Fingleton’s talent shone, propelling him to the semi-finals. The exposure on such a prominent platform proved invaluable, connecting his music with a significantly broader audience and solidifying his presence within the country music scene.
Building on this momentum, Alistair has since released a double CD featuring the singles “Nobody’s Darlin’” and “Same Old Love.” Both tracks have been met with enthusiastic reception, particularly gaining traction and popularity on the country and social dance circuits. As a one-man band, Fingleton is now touring across Ireland, and his live performances are gaining increasing acclaim for their energy and authentic appeal.
His latest offering, “A Real Humdinger,” marks a delightful and highly anticipated collaboration with none other than Irish entertainment icon Richie Kavanagh, who penned the track. From its very title, the song promises something lively and engaging, and it absolutely delivers. “A Real Humdinger” is a pure shot of fun, brimming with the characteristic humour and infectious energy that defines Kavanagh’s work, seamlessly blended with Fingleton’s engaging vocal delivery.
This single isn’t just a song; it’s an invitation to the dancefloor. It embodies that classic Irish charm and vivacity that resonates so strongly with audiences who appreciate a tune with character and a beat. The collaboration feels organic, with Kavanagh’s songwriting prowess perfectly complementing Fingleton’s performance style. It’s the kind of track that lifts spirits, gets feet tapping, and inevitably lights up any social gathering or dance event. For fans of traditional Irish country music with a modern, lively twist, “A Real Humdinger” is indeed a true standout, showcasing Alistair Fingleton’s growing artistry and his savvy in teaming up with a legend to create something truly memorable.
As Alistair Fingleton continues to navigate the twin worlds of diesel fitting and dynamic music performance, his latest single with Richie Kavanagh serves as a vibrant milestone. It underscores not only his enduring talent and dedication but also his burgeoning ability to connect with audiences through honest, heartfelt, and, in this case, hilariously entertaining music.