From Glór Tíre Finalist to Rising Star: David Connor’s Journey Through the Heart of Irish Country Music
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
David first captured the attention of the Irish nation during the 2021 series of TG4’s beloved country music competition, Glór Tíre. His calm demeanor, assured stage presence, and undeniably stylish performances resonated deeply with both the judges and a growing legion of fans, ultimately propelling him to the coveted Grand Final. However, even before his impressive run on the show, David’s burgeoning popularity within the vibrant Irish country music scene was already becoming evident.
The release of his debut single, a heartfelt rendition of the Zac Brown Band’s “As She’s Walking Away,” in February 2020 marked the official launch of David’s solo career. Since then, his musical journey has been one of consistent growth and artistic exploration, yielding a further seven well-received songs and accompanying music videos. His second single, a lively and infectious take on Luka Bloom’s “You Couldn’t Have Come at a Better Time,” proved to be a true summer anthem upon its release in August 2020. Its upbeat tempo and equally vibrant summer-themed video perfectly captured the mood of the season, earning him significant attention and airplay.
Following his successful stint on Glór Tíre, David released his third single in April 2021, a powerful rendition of Alabama’s chart-topping hit “Down Home.” Notably, he had already showcased both this track and his subsequent single, “That’s the Way I Feel,” during his captivating live performances on the show. July 2021 saw the release of his fourth single, a charming interpretation of the Roger Miller classic “That’s the Way I Feel,” which garnered widespread recognition and further solidified his presence on the airwaves.
Demonstrating his versatility and appreciation for classic country themes, David released “Old Flame” by Alabama in February 2022, perfectly timed for Valentine’s Day. This nostalgic love song, with its poignant lyrics of heartache and reflection, was beautifully set to a traditional foxtrot tempo, appealing to dancers and listeners alike.
The George Strait hit “Where the Sidewalk Ends” further broadened David’s appeal. This up-tempo and undeniably catchy quickstep track received significant airplay and quickly became a hugely popular choice on the dance circuit. The music video for this energetic tune was filmed amidst the lively atmosphere of the 2022 Claremorris Agricultural Show, where David and his band had the honor of headlining in front of a record-breaking crowd. The enthusiastic reception to their performance was so resounding that David and his band are scheduled to return to the Claremorris Agricultural Show for a fourth consecutive year, a testament to their captivating live shows.
David’s recent single marks an exciting step in his artistic development – an original track titled “What Doesn’t Kill You Makes You Stronger.” Penned by the talented Al McQuilkin, a respected musician on the Irish country scene known for his steel and electric guitar work with the Mike Denver Band, this song is another popular quickstep on the dance floor. McQuilkin not only wrote the lyrics and music but also lent his instrumental expertise, playing both electric and steel guitar on the recording.
Last year saw the release of David’s interpretation of Billy Joel’s iconic 1974 track, “The Entertainer.” This thoughtful rendition blends elements of country, folk, and pop, offering a fresh perspective on the song’s exploration of the challenges faced when starting out in the music industry. David’s version is a fun and engaging jive with a memorable melody and an infectious dance beat, showcasing his ability to connect with a diverse range of musical styles.
David’s latest single, “The Day That I Left Castlebar,” takes a more poignant turn, telling a heartfelt story of emigration and enduring love. This beautiful waltz, originally made famous by the legendary Irish country star Big Tom and written by Dermot O’Brien, adds a deeply emotional layer to David’s steadily growing and impressive repertoire.
Beyond his studio recordings, David has been a constant presence on the live music scene, captivating audiences with his dynamic one-man-band show at social dance events across Ireland, from the northern reaches of Donegal to the southern landscapes of Kerry. In addition to his solo performances, David also leads his own accomplished band, catering to a wide array of events, including lively country dances, elegant weddings, and celebratory parties.
His growing reputation as a compelling live performer was further cemented last summer (May 2024) when David graced the stage at the renowned West Fest Music Festival in Kilconly, Co. Galway. He also had the distinct honor of performing at Mid West Radio’s prestigious “Night with the Stars” event in February 2023 at the TF Royal Theatre in Castlebar, Co. Mayo, where he entertained a packed and enthusiastic audience. With each release and every performance, David continues to solidify his position as a rising star in the Irish country music landscape, captivating hearts with his genuine talent and unwavering passion for the genre.