This year has been a whirlwind of success for Derek Ryan, the Co. Carlow artist, who has just received the title from the Farmers Journal of “Male Artist of the Year”.

The singer/songwriter shows no signs of slowing down in his career, with a recent, successful, international tour to Australia and a number one album under his belt, we wonder how he finds time to perform up to five nights a week to packed dance floors and sold out concert halls at home.

Derek’s most recent album, “The Simple Things” which topped the Irish charts, includes hit singles, Scottish favourite, “Will Ye Go Lassie Go”, “Flowers In Her Hair” and “Hold Onto Your Hat” featuring Sharon Shannon. The duo are also currently recording a new Christmas single, “It’s Christmas Time Again”. Sharon Shannon is well known for her many different musical collaborations ranging from Shane Mac Gowan of The Pogues to Imelda May, not to forget her number one hit “Galway Girl” with Steve Earle.

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“I love what I do”, said the ex D-side member, “It is tiring don’t get me wrong, I couldn’t do it without my fans. I know everyone always says that, but it’s true, not only do they buy the records – they keep me going! That’s why I love meeting my fans coming off stage, it’s like I’m putting faces to names I see coming up on my twitter and facebook all the time!”

His rise to stardom on the country scene has been phenomenal and there are few country stars who can claim to have made such an impact in just over two years. Not only has Derek’s concert tour sold out in venues across the country, he has also swept the board at award nights this year receiving “Best Live Performer of the Year” from the Sunday World and was also honoured to be awarded with “Album of The Year” for his fantastic fourth album, Country Soul, by Irish Country Sound. His success has not stopped here with his single “The Entertainer”, making it to No.2 in the UK iTunes country charts in the first week of its release, with heavy competition!

Derek is well ahead of his dream. He has recently celebrated his fourth year on the road with his band in Ireland, four years in which they have gained a huge following up and down the country, and further afield.

Derek is currently on “The Simple Things Concert & Dance Tour”, which includes a mix of old favourites, classic country and Derek’s own original material. Look out for Derek when he passes through your town. It will be one of those defining moments in your life when you spend a few hours of non-stop exhilaration at one of his shows.

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