Derek Ryan’s career so far has been undoubtedly a remarkable journey. Over the past three years, the Carlow born songwriter has been on the road, bringing his own brand of country music to fans throughout Ireland and the UK. On his journey, he has reached many milestones he never thought he would, and he is ready to reach his next!

Following on from the success of Derek’s last award-winning album, “Country Soul”, he is now looking forward to moving on with his new single. Country Soul was released last October, which gave the hit singles “100 Numbers”, “Raggle Taggle Gypsy” and “Wake Me Up”, now it is time to progress further in his ever growing success, with the first new material from his next album.

On 16th May, Derek will be releasing his new single, “Hold Onto Your Hat”, which features Irish icon Sharon Shannon. The single is the first song which will be released from his forthcoming album, which is out later this year.   A video for the song was recently filmed in Co. Clare.

16360derek ryan

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.

Speaking of his upcoming single, Sunday World’s “Performer of the Year” said: “I can’t believe I am releasing a song with the one and only Sharon Shannon!  I’ve always listened to her music. She’s worked with some fantastic artists over the years, and she is working with me – it’s unbelievable!

18850derek ryan

Hold Onto Your Hat” featuring Sharon Shannon, will be on release from Sharpe Music or available to download via iTunes from the 16th May 2014.  Don’t forget to watch out for news of Derek’s new album being released later this year on www.derekryanmusic.com.

Derek Ryan appears in the Olympia Theatre Dublin on Thursday 17th July where he will be joined by Sharon Shannon. Sharon will also guest with Derek at an open air event at the Athletic Grounds in Armagh on 31st May. Tickets are available from Ticketmaster.ie and Armaghgaa.net.  Next weekend there will be a Derek Ryan Music Weekend taking place in the Clanree Hotel, Letterkenny when Derek will be joined by Declan Nerney and Gerry Guthrie with the Sunday afternoon dance being a family day, such is the interest amongst the youth for Derek’s brand of country.