From Northern Ireland Pubs to Global Stages: The Heartfelt Rise of Gareth
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
The year 2025 has been nothing short of a whirlwind for Gareth, the Northern Irish singer-songwriter whose authentic blend of his homeland roots with a deep-seated love for country music has propelled him from local pub gigs to international recognition. This isn’t a story manufactured for headlines; it’s a genuine ascent fueled by talent, heartfelt storytelling, and a viral moment that unexpectedly opened doors to a world stage.
While many artists toil for years in relative obscurity, Gareth’s trajectory took a significant leap in 2024 with his captivating cover of Noah Kahan’s “Stick Season.” That single performance resonated deeply, amassing a staggering 25 million views and 15 million streams, a testament to Gareth’s ability to connect with listeners on an emotional level. This wasn’t just a fleeting internet sensation; it was a spark that ignited a burgeoning career.
The buzz generated by “Stick Season” paved the way for two significant projects: Covers (From Across the Pond), a collection of his unique interpretations of popular songs, and his debut original EP, Changing Seasons. These releases further solidified his artistry, collectively garnering over 25 million streams and earning him valuable airplay on prominent stations like SiriusXM’s The Highway and Absolute Country Radio. This wasn’t just about riding a viral wave; Gareth was proving his staying power with original material and a distinct artistic voice.
This year has seen Gareth’s journey accelerate even further. He recently announced a significant publishing deal with BMG, a clear indication of the industry’s belief in his songwriting prowess. Several singles released via Walk Off Entertainment have followed, each met with critical acclaim, further showcasing his ability to craft compelling narratives set to engaging melodies.
His recent appearance at the prestigious C2C: Country to Country festival in London served as a powerful testament to his growing stature. Gareth wasn’t just another face in the crowd; he graced the stages of Countryline, The Wayside, and BBC Radio 2 Indigo, even participating in an exclusive Apple Event. Beyond the performances, he connected with audiences through interviews with Absolute Country, Smooth Country, and BBC Radio 1 with Jodi Bryant, sharing his story and his music with a wider UK audience.
One particularly poignant moment during his C2C stint saw Gareth bring his mother onstage at BBC 2 to dedicate “Quiet in This House,” a deeply personal song he penned for her. This heartfelt gesture offered a glimpse into the genuine emotion that underpins his music and his connection to his roots.
Continuing this upward climb, Gareth has just released another song straight from the heart, “Answered Prayer,” on March 28th. This track has already resonated deeply, with a performance video garnering millions of views across social media. Gareth explains the inspiration behind the song: “‘Answered Prayer’ is for anyone in your life that may have helped you through difficult times… whether that is a family member, a husband, wife, friend, or someone that helped you find beauty in the world. I’m really proud of this song and the message. I think everyone could use a song like this right now.” This sentiment speaks to the core of Gareth’s appeal – his ability to articulate universal emotions in a relatable and sincere way.
Born and raised in the tight-knit community of Castlederg, Northern Ireland, Gareth’s music is imbued with the storytelling tradition of his homeland, seamlessly interwoven with his passion for country music. His journey from playing in local pubs for a modest £50 a night to captivating international audiences is a testament to the power of authentic artistry and the unpredictable nature of the digital age.
Looking ahead, Gareth’s trajectory shows no signs of slowing down. With his BMG signing and undeniable talent, he is poised to leave a significant mark on the country music landscape while staying true to his Irish heritage and storytelling roots. This weekend will see him return to his hometown for a special surprise pop-up show at a local pub, a heartwarming gesture that underscores his connection to the community that nurtured his early musical aspirations.
Beyond this intimate homecoming, Gareth is embarking on an extensive touring schedule that will see him connect with fans across the UK and Europe. His headlining UK tour throughout April and May will be followed by a European tour supporting the acclaimed Kip Moore in May and June. These dates offer a fantastic opportunity to witness Gareth’s captivating live performances firsthand, experiencing the raw emotion and genuine connection that have defined his rapid rise.
Upcoming Tour Dates:
- April 30, 2025 – Manchester, UK
- May 1, 2025 – London, UK
- May 2, 2025 – Amsterdam, NL
- May 3, 2025 – Hamburg, DE
- May 6, 2025 – Stockholm, SE
- May 7, 2025 – Oslo, NO
- May 16, 2025 – Stockholm, SE
- May 17, 2025 – Stockholm, SE
- May 18, 2025 – Oslo, NO
- May 21, 2025 – Hamburg, DE
- May 23, 2025 – Cologne, DE
- May 24, 2025 – Stuttgart, DE
- May 25, 2025 – Zürich, CH
- May 28, 2025 – Tilburg, NL
- May 30, 2025 – Birmingham, UK
- May 31, 2025 – Leeds, UK
- June 1, 2025 – Belfast, UK
- June 4, 2025 – Newcastle, UK
- June 5, 2025 – Glasgow, UK
- June 7, 2025 – London, UK
- June 8, 2025 – Manchester, UK
Gareth’s story is a compelling reminder that talent, authenticity, and a touch of viral magic can indeed pave the way to a global stage. His journey from the pubs of Northern Ireland to the hearts of listeners worldwide is a testament to the power of genuine connection through music, and his upcoming tour dates offer a chance to witness this captivating artist in his element. Keep an eye on Gareth; his star is undoubtedly on the rise.