Search icon

Movies & TV

22nd Feb 2019

The Late Late Show is looking to crown Ireland’s newest country music star

Dave Hanratty

Late Late Show

Do you have what it takes?

If you’ve ever wanted to be the next Daniel O’Donnell, follow in the footsteps of Cliona Hagan or actually play the Croke Park residency that Garth Brooks never got to enjoy, a new competition from The Late Late Show is for you.

Ryan Tubridy, who made the announcement alongside country giant Mike Denver on Friday night’s show, is on the hunt for Ireland’s next big singing sensation, with country music very much the focus.

The ‘Search for a Country Star’ competition will do exactly what it says on the tin, scouring Ireland for a bright new star.

Here’s Nathan Carter and Cliona Hagan in action on last year’s country special:

Clip via The Late Late Show

See? It’s easy enough if you’re good.

The winning act will get the opportunity to perform alongside one of Ireland’s leading country artists on this year’s Late Late Country Special, which takes place on Friday 3 May.

Not only that, but they’ll also get a session in a top recording studio.

“The Late Late Country Special is one of the biggest nights of the year for us, but this year, we want to make it extra special,” says Tubridy.

“We want to find the next star of the Irish country music scene, so if you think you can give Dolly a run for her money, or if Garth is your guy, get in touch!”

Groups, duets and solo singers are eligible to apply.

Applicants should be aged over 16, and must submit a video clip of them performing.

Entries must be made via the Late Late Show website, with 29 March the closing date.

LISTEN: You Must Be Jokin’ with Aideen McQueen – Faith healers, Coolock craic and Gigging as Gaeilge