I NEED SLEEP!!! !

Myself and jet lag are really hanging around together longer than I hoped! Still struggling to sleep after a week of travel. I never understand how you can fall asleep on the couch whilst watching t.v then when you go into bed, your wide awake!! What is that about!
Either way, I have just bought a great book recently and I can't put it down so thats helping me get some shut eye. The book is called "I am Malala" and it is written by a young girl from Swat in Pakistan. She was shot in the head by the Taliban because she dared to speak up about their regime. In particular, their ban on education for girls. Its a marvelous insight into that world, and an eye opener for many who think that all muslims think alike. I strongly recommend it.

Since coming home it has been non stop. I have a series of concerts in Ireland in October and November. These are solo shows, and I'm calling it "The Great Irish Songbook". In the show I will sing songs that I think pay tribute to all the great songwriters over the years to come out of Ireland. Go as far back as Percy French and Thomas Moore, to modern day greats like Jimmy mcCarthy, Van Morrison,Brendan Graham and indeed Phil Coulter, to name but a few.
The challenge with this concerts is getting word out there. I have been Stateside for the past four years and prior to that I was spending a lot of time there too with Celtic Thunder. So reintroducing myself takes a lot of time and effort. Making sure posters and flyers are circulating as well as all media is just the tip. Learning lyrics and making sure all is in place for the actual gigs is most important.
I'm very much looking forward to them but always stress leading up to concerts. There's a lot to be said for being in a production like Celtic Thunder. You simply turn up, know your stuff and sing. However, I'm not complaining. For all info on tickets go to the "news and events section" on www.paulbyrom.ie

On that topic, it was great being back with the guys last week for the gigs in Minot, and Oklahoma. Although I had met Colm and Emmet, I had never performed with them, so it was a real pleasure. I was delighted as we had similar interests and literally all made fun of each other from beginning to end!
It was a strange feeling, because although I had been away from the show for a long time, when I joined up again, it all felt like I had never been away. Certainly things have changed and there are personnel changes, but by and large, it was the same. I thoroughly enjoyed it and hope to do it again sometime soon.

Upon arriving home, my little dog Bradley nearly lost his life when I walked in. It always amazes me how excited he gets each and every time. Whether I'm away for a few hours or a few weeks. The reception is the same.
I got home on Dominique's birthday and as it was a Monday, we didn't really get to celebrate it. So I will make it up to her this weekend as its a special birthday this year! My mother always said you should never divulge or ask a women's age! Needless to say, she's not in her 20's anymore!!!!!!

I love routine, and for someone who travels a lot, that may seem strange. When I'm home, I am up everyday around the same time. 8.30am I'm out the door for a walk with Bradley, then we come home and have our breakfast. After which, I sit at the lap top for a couple of hours doing work. Lunch, walk, do whatever other bits and bobs need doing, (like developing my new online store, which is close to completion) then I head off to Crossfit at 5pm.
Fitness has become such a huge part of my life as I know you all know. I go nearly everyday to crossfit and even on "rest days" I'll head for a run. Why so much? It's great for the head and body. You never leave the gym or come in from a run in bad form. whatever is bothering you, is gone for the few hours you are working out. Aside from that, in many respects its like a drug. Once you start seeing results you want to keep going. What I've learnt more than anything is, your never too old to start. I can safely say, I am fitter at 36 than I was when I was 21! That's just mad!!!
So being able to balance my career and fitness is a real pleasure for me. Your health is your wealth!

Tonight I'm heading off this evening to take my nephew in to the Aviva Stadium in Dublin to watch Ireland take on Germany (the world champions) in a very important soccer match. We call these kinda outings "the lads day out". No women allowed!!! I'm certain it wont be long till he's too cool to hang out with his uncle, but in the meantime, I'm gonna take every chance I get!

Keep well and chat soon
My Loves
My Doves
My Eggs

Paul

#BYROMBUSTOUR

What an interesting month I’m having! After years of  toying with an idea for over two years. I finally saw it come to fruition this month. The idea was a simple one. Take a musical bus tour around Ireland, with me as the host. Over the course of the week, I would do three private performances for those who signed up for the bus tour. We would visit places that meant something to me personally, and also a couple of my favourite spots in Ireland. After spending four years living in America, I have become even more proud of my country and all it has to offer. So I wanted to share it with as many as possible. That being said, I wanted the tour to be small, so that it would be personable and that by the end of the week, I would know everyone on it and more importantly, they would know me. Thankfully after a month on sale, the trip was a sell out and it was a go! I was tickled pink!

 However I would need help accomplishing this as the logistics were beyond my area of expertise. So I enlisted my good friends Chris and Kelly at Travel Concepts, Massachusetts. They went above and beyond the call of duty and even tagged along to see that everyone’s needs were met. The lure of guinnes and good craic had absolutely nothing to do with it I’m assured!!

On day one we all met in Shannon, a small town outside Limerick where international flights come through. In particular, American flights. Upon boarding our bus, we headed west to the Cliffs of Moher which is one of the most stunning views on the west coast of Ireland. It ranks high on my to-do list for all of you visiting Ireland. However, on our visit, the rain was bucketing out of the sky, and those of us willing to brave the weather in pursuit of pictures and the view, got drenched! All I could think of was, “their getting a real flavour of Ireland now!” I was concerned though that this would be the weather for the week. Much and all as we were all in high spirits, I believe if it continued like this, that spirit would diminish quickly. Sitting on a bus in wet gear is no mans idea of fun.

After getting to Kilarney and checking into our hotel, I was all set to do the first of my performances for the group. The setting was beautiful in Muckross park hotel and the vibes were fantastic. I knew we were in for a great week.

I was nervous about the trip, as I didn’t know everyone coming on it, and was hoping that we would all get on. Either I would jump off the bus within 24hrs, or more likely, be pushed off the bus! Thankfully after day one, I knew this group would be fantastic fun, and I wasn’t wrong. The show went great and they were all extremely enthusiastic.

The next morning I woke to the sun splitting the trees, and I was delighted. Yet aware that in Ireland, we could have snow by lunchtime!! Thankfully that wasn’t the case and the weather was great all week. Unheard of! Perhaps I should bring more tours to Ireland if it’s going help the climate!

We went from Kilarney to Dingle, the home of Fungi the dolphin, then on to Blarney in Co.Cork where many of my friends and family got concerned when they heard I kissed the stone. From there to Cobh. A coastal town in Cork, famed as the last stop of the Titanic before it sank. Many of the victims boarded the boat at Cobh and indeed the museum there was a fitting setting for my second performance. After Cork we traveled to Waterford Crystal to experience first hand the craftsmanship of Ireland that is heralded throughout the world. Followed by a trip to Kilkenny, where I brought the tour to my grandmothers home village “Paulstown”. There we stopped and took pictures at the house where she grew up, and around the back we visited the grave of my great grand parents, whom I’m certain never expected their great grandson to bring a bus load of Australian and American visitors to see them.  I did wonder what they would have thought.

The final stage of the tour was my hometown of Dublin. I say town, although I’m certain many of you know it’s a city. The largest city in Ireland, and home to over 1.5 million citizens. Of that number is my small family and I was delighted that after visiting my school and church where I got married, the group got to meet them. My 96 year old grandmother also turned up to my delight. Later we visited the Guinness factory, where I was shocked to learn, I hadn’t got shares in at this point!!

On the final night, we traveled to Bellingham Castle for my final performance and a special dinner. It was a lovely way to end an extremely enjoyable week. Not just for those who signed up for the trip, but for me. I consider them all good friends now, and we are already talking about next September. So if your interested, keep checking my site and you’ll get all the details there. For those who came, I want to thank you all for the wonderful memories. Whether it be from Sydney or Melbourne Australia, or Texas, St.Louis, Mississippi, Boston, New York, Atlanta or tim buck two, I will remember you all dearly!  

After a quick two days of rest, in which I caught up on sleep and time with Dominique and Bradley. I was packing again, only this time the trip is not a solo venture.

December 2010 marked my departure from Celtic Thunder. The show I had been with from its conception for five years. They were incredible years spent building the show and experiencing things I could only have dreamt of. Some of the highlights were performing in such places as Radio City and the White House.

My solo career took off again and after moving to NY with my wife, I had two no.1 albums and a tv special for American and Australian tv. I often checked in with the guys from CT and of course my friendship with Damian only grew stronger as we both chased our solo careers. Hearing of the passing of George was hard to believe and still to this day, accept.

When the producer, Sharon Browne asked me to rejoin the guys for these upcoming gigs it seemed that it was the right time. It worked with my solo schedule and promotion, so why not! Although there will only be two gigs, who knows if I will do more. Or more importantly, if they will want me to do more!!

Although some of the faces on and off stage have changed I expect it to be as exciting and fun. I am a little nervous as I’m not sure if or how I will fit back in, but all involved are lovely people and I am sure I will be made fit very quickly.

When I return to Ireland it will be full steam ahead with my first solo Irish tour. The concept of my show is a tribute to the “Great Irish Songbook”. Where I will sing some of my favourite pieces to come out of Ireland. From the time of Percy French and Thomas Moore to modern day songwriters like Paul Brady, Van Morrison, Brendan Graham, Jimmy McCarthy and indeed Phil Coulter! Im excited to get out to the smaller theatres around Ireland and back to what I consider my musical home, The National Concert Hall Dublin.

It is proving to be an eventful end to the year and hopefully the momentum will carry into 2016.

Thank you all for your continued support and I hope to see many of you again soon.

For now, keep well

My Loves

My doves

My Eggs    

Paul x

Finally I can tell you!

Its been a long time since I've sat down and written a blog to fill you all in on where I'm at, and more importantly, what I'm at!

In September my wife and myself made the very difficult decision to move home to Dublin, Ireland after four amazing years in New York. It came as a surprise to many of you, and indeed to our families and friends. We were well into the long and expensive process of getting our Greencards until one day I asked Dominique, "do you see us being here long term, considering we came for a year". The realism was, that despite having a whale of a time, we both saw our long term future in Ireland. There were a number of reasons, but the most important was the fact that we wanted to start the next chapter of our lives surrounded by family and life long friends. That being said we have life long friends in New York, Boston and throughout the States, but fundamentally, home is home!

Since coming home, it has been a roller coaster. Lots of fun times and one or two sad. In the early summer we discovered that Dominique's wonderful grandmother hadn't long left with us. Joan was a beautiful, fun character who always made me feel part of the family. We had a very similar sense of humour and all she asked of me was to look after her beautiful granddaughter. Needless to say I will always strive to do that. I had the great honour of singing at her funeral mass and it was great to have had so many great times with her since moving home. I suppose in many respects, validating our reasons for moving home.

In September I will be doing my very first bus tour of Ireland. Over the week, 40 of you will get to see what I believe are the finest spots in my homeland. Ireland has so much to offer and I can't wait to show it off. Obviously its a music bus tour, so I will perform 3 concerts for the guests over the course of the week and when the tour reaches Dublin, some of my family will come along and meet them all. Making it a personal experience too! I can't wait and think there will be lots of laughs along the way.

I've also been very busy organising a small tour in Ireland starting the end of October. The show will be themed and is called "The Great Irish Songbook". When living away from Ireland, I developed a new love and appreciation for all things Irish, and in particular our music. Most of the songs have beautiful stories and melodies written by many songwriters we know and a few we may never have heard of. So my show is somewhat of a tribute to the great songs and songwriters of my country. All too often, In Ireland, we are guilty of taking our successful artists for granted, so I hope to highlight them in my show. On the tour I will be going to Limerick,Sligo,Offaly,Waterford and indeed Dublin, with maybe a few more to be added along the way. It will be my first time to do a solo tour in Ireland in many years so I am nervous but extremely excited about what lies ahead.

This brings me on to the big announcement I have. Much as I have enjoyed and continue to enjoy my solo adventure, I have always looked back on my time with Celtic Thunder with great fondness. On a few occasions Sharon Browne has asked me to come back and perform with the group, however on those occasions it didn't suit for one reason or another. On the last tour they did of the States, I was close to rejoining but again, it didn't work out. Damian joined and thoroughly enjoyed it. I must say it was strange seeing him back and not being there with him. Then recently we all met up at a friends wedding in France and had a great time. Singing, laughing and reminiscing on good times from the past. So shortly after, Sharon asked again if I would consider performing with the group. I said I would be open to it. It was mentioned that there was going to be two Celtic Thunder performances in the States this fall and that it could be a great chance to come back and perform with the guys. On this occasion all the ducks were in a line, so I've said yes, and am very much looking forward to it. Whether it leads to more performances or tours together, who knows. We will cross that bridge when we come to it. However for the moment, I look forward to these two performances with Ryan, Colm, Neil, Damian and Emmet C. I hope I will be welcomed back into the fold as I always have been by the "Thunderheads" and I can't wait to see many of you again.
Celtic Thunder have released a press release which I have copied below for you to read. All concert details of the performances will be on their site www.celticthunder.com

My solo work will continue and I am currently working hard on getting some nice dates and venues throughout America for 2016 and perhaps even farther a field.
I look forward to seeing some of you in person, be it at the Celtic Thunder gigs, or my own solo gigs. One way or another I will be keeping myself as busy as ever.
Much love to you all and appreciation for all you have done for me and continue to do. Your support has and will always be appreciated.
For now,
Keep well

My Loves
My Doves
My Eggs

Paul

A Special Evening with Celtic Thunder!

Celtic Thunder play shows in Thackerville OK and Minot ND this fall!

Celtic music phenomenon, Celtic Thunder, will return to the US in October 2015 for two shows only; their first-ever festival engagement at the Norsk Hostfest in Minot, North Dakota and a show at the WinStar World Casino and Resort in Thackerville OK. Both shows are entitled “An Evening with Celtic Thunder” will feature both past and present members of the Celtic Thunder cast.

Fans will be delighted to welcome back former Celtic Thunder members Paul Byrom, Emmet Cahill and Damian McGinty for these two very special evenings. Paul, Emmet and Damian will be featured as guest artists and will be performing alongside current CT cast members Ryan Kelly, Colm Keegan and Neil Byrne.

Backed as ever by members of the amazing Celtic Thunder Band, Ryan, Colm, Neil, Paul, Emmet and Damian will deliver much loved Celtic Thunder ensemble numbers with selections from their 9 Public Television specials to date. In addition to these incredibly popular ensemble performances, the WinStar World Casino and Resort and the Norsk Høstfest shows will also feature a wide variety of solo hits highlighting each of the 6 principal artists diverse vocal styles, ranging from traditional Irish and Celtic song to more contemporary classics. The concert-style shows will also highlight the group’s fun side with performances of all time fan favorites and Celtic Thunder anthems.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to see Celtic Thunder members from down through the years! Tickets for both shows are now onsale. Norst Hostfest tickets can be purchased online at hostfest.com, by calling (701) 852-2368, or in person at 1020 South Broadway, Minot ND 58701. Tickets for WinStar World Casino and  Resort can be purchased at Win Star Tickets or by calling Ticketmaster at 800-653-8000.

Celtic Thunder is the brainchild of producer Sharon Browne and since its inception in 2007 has released 11 albums, toured the U.S. and Canada, coast to coast, eight times, and Australia three times performing at over 800 shows to date. Celtic Thunder has also been hailed as BILLBOARD’s “Top World Music Artist,” along with “Top World Music Imprint” and “Top World Album” of in 2008, 2009 and again in 2011. The Celtic Thunder official YouTube channel, “Thunder Tube” has received over 28 million views since 2008. Celtic Thunder is backed by the members of the dynamic Celtic Thunder Band and their shows are known for the use of dramatic effects of lighting and choreography. 

THINKING OF HOME




To say its an exciting time would be an understatement. However with excitement, comes nerves, expectation and hope. These coming few weeks will determine a lot for me as an artist.
After having my debut TV special "THIS IS THE MOMENT, LIVE" broadcast last year, its now time to take to the road again. Im looking forward to performing for many of you again. Singing songs from the special, but also from my new album "THINKING OF HOME". There are still tickets left for my gigs and all details on on my website www.paulbyrom.ie under "news and events".

As the release of my new album is fast approaching(feb 18th), I thought it might be nice to share with you some thoughts and feelings I had behind the song selection. This is technically my first so called "IRISH" album. For many reasons, I've never done one before, as there was so many other styles of songs I wanted to record first. However, late last year, I thought, its time to release songs from my homeland. The album is called THINKING OF HOME as it is full of songs that remind me of home, but also has one or two songs that reflect my new home here in the United States. I have even taken the bull by the horns and decided to put two of my own songs on the album. So this will either be a HUGE success, or a disaster!!!! Either way, I wont die wondering!! Lets look at the set list....

IRELAND
This is a song that was written by one of America's biggest country singing stars Garth Brooks. There have been many discussions as to what war he refers to in the song, however it has never been confirmed. I believe it is left vague so to represent all the Irish who fought in many wars for other countries or beliefs. It represents the courage, valor and fighting spirit of many Irish men through history.
I love singing it because its full of gusto, and indeed I hope that wherever I cast my last breath, Ireland will "take my hand" and bring me home.

RAGLAN ROAD
This is a beautiful old Irish poem by Patrick Kavanagh which was later put to music to the old Irish song, The Dawning Of The Day and originally recorded by Luke Kelly. It tells the story of him loving a women. Knowing that by telling her his true feelings, he would risk being hurt, and did anyway!! Its based in Dublin, and indeed Raglan Road is but a stones throw from my house in Dublin. Its a haunting song to me in many ways, and one of my favourites on the album.

THE LAST ROSE OF SUMMER
Well when I started training as a boy soprano at the age of seven, it wasn't long before I was entered into singing competitions around Ireland. Nothing but medals and confidence to be gained, I loved every minute of them. My mother would drive me everywhere and sit through the whole competition. Sometimes listening to the same song being sung over 100 times as the competition would require that. She was, and still is, an incredibly patient woman who has forever supported me.
This song was one of the first songs I learnt for these competitions and remains dear to me.
It is an old Irish "parlor song" and was written by Thomas Moore, who many of you will recognise from being the man who wrote Love Thee Dearest.

A SUNNY MORN IN SEPTEMBER
I can't believe I am putting one of my own songs on this album. When I came to New York four years ago, myself and my wife, Dominique were so excited. We didn't know what lay ahead for us on our American adventure, but we were extremely happy and excited at the prospects. When doing some sightseeing, we decided to stop by ground zero to pay our respects to those who lost their lives on September 11, 2001. Whilst there I couldn't help but imagine that there were probably lives lost of people very similar to Dominique and myself. Starting out in life as a young couple, making plans together and hoping for a happy future. Even people that were older, looking forward to retirement, or watching their children and grandchildren grow. It struck me that in the flick of an eye lid, loved ones were taken and all these bright futures were taken with them. That there were many left behind wishing and longing for one more day with their lost loved one.
This song is about just that. Cherishing those we love, and reminding them of your love .Simply because, in the flicker of an eye lid, that person could be gone. This song will always be performed with the memory of the good people who lost their lives on 9/11.

THE MINSTREL BOY
Another Thomas Moore melody on the album. This is one of his finest. It is believed that he wrote this piece about the friends he made whilst studying in Trinity College, who later fought and died in the Irish rebellion of 1798.
It became even more popular with Irish Americans who fought and died during the United States Civil War and also WW1. It is often heard on St. Patricks day being played by bagpipes throughout the States and Canada, and was famously performed at John F Kennedy's funeral.
Its full of heart wrenching lyrics and stirs emotion within me each time I perform it. It was a must on this album.

LADY LIBERTY
This is another one of my compositions. I collaborated with my musical producer and long time friend Joe Csibi on this. Its a song I wrote whilst thinking of all the Irish who, like myself, had travelled to America in hope of a better life. Many would have travelled by boat, and would have been too weak to survive the long journey. However those that did, and arrived in New York, would of had to have passed by The Statue Of Liberty. What they must have thought when at last they saw her face. Knowing they had made it, and hoping that they would be allowed to stay, once they passed inspection in Ellis Island. Although we don't travel by boat to America anymore, not much has changed.

 THE TOWN I LOVED SO WELL
Well this is without question one of the most popular songs ever to come out of Ireland. It tells the story of a young man growing up in Derry. Having a simple life and being happy. Eventually leaving Ireland to better his life, only to return one day and discover that everything had changed. For the worse. His hometown was under British rule and his people oppressed. However this is not a rebel song. This is a song that talks about peace, and the hope for a "bright brand new day". This is why I love the song. The young man ended up having a large family of which I married one of his daughters!

FROM CLARE TO HERE
Clare is a small county in the West of Ireland, and this song by Ralf McTell is a song that tells again, about emigration. I have grown up hearing many recordings and performances of this, and have always loved it. I recorded it simply because of that. I hope you enjoy it as its a very different style to many of the recordings I've done to date.

SHANADOAH
I've often been told that this song is the Americans version of Danny Boy, in terms of popularity. When I first heard it, I fell in love with it, and when doing my tv special I wanted to pay tribute to my new home in the show. I always love singing it, and similarly, whilst THINKING OF HOME, I often think of America. So this is my tribute to the land that has given so much to me as a person and an artist.

GO LASSIE GO
Often this is called Wild Mountain Thyme, or Will Ye, Go Lassie Go. There is no "correct" title. However what I love about it is that it always gets people singing along. Its such a beautiful song and as I have a very understanding producer and label, they let me pick all my songs. This had to go on it as I hope by the time I perform it live, you will all sing along!!

DANNY BOY
Whats there to say that hasn't already been said about Danny Boy. It must be the most recorded song of all the Irish songs. If not, of all the songs ever written!!!
It has been done in many versions. Some great, some not so great!! However, its always lovely to hear it, and I adore singing it every time I take the stage.
Many have their beliefs about what it is about, but I am glad to clear it up for you now!
Simply put, it is the final words a father says to his son as he leaves Ireland to find a new home. His hope is that he will see his son again, and prays that if not, he will return and visit his graveside.
I always think of those loved ones I have left behind, and pray that on my return, they will all be there to greet me as usual. My soul is Irish. My heart is Irish, and this song means more to me than just nostalgia.

THE CROPPY BOY
The last track on the album, as its the saddest. Again, it refers to the rebellion of 1798 and tells of the young "croppy" who stops by a church for confession before heading to war. However, whilst there, he is betrayed and sentenced to death.
Many lost their lives for what I call home. For the freedom many of us enjoy today. Im a proud Irishman, and wanted to finish the album with reference to those who made my country what it is today.

I hope you enjoy my album, and pray you'll spread the word for me in getting as many as possible to hear it and hopefully buy it. It is tough times to sell albums these days. Its down to the word of mouth. I am very fortunate that I have the best fans in the world, and trust you will spread the word for THINKING OF HOME. Lets try get that Billboard NO.1 ! ! ! !

 

Time to air !

Well, Its finally here!! The moment. 

Tomorrow is the day that I have thought would never come. D Day! When my first solo TV special goes to air. "All of my dreaming, scheming and screaming become one". Where I feel like Im letting my baby face the world for the first time. I know a lot of you were at the filming, but now its going out to all and the rest! 

I have been told August is a poor month for pledging and therefore can be tough to air a special. That if it doesnt go well, it has knock on effects to further stations airing it and so on and so on. However, I have every belief in what we have put together, and every belief in you, my friends and fans. 

I have received many letters, emails and pigeons wishing me well. I truly believe i have a set of fans that any artist would kill for. Loyalty, love and well wishing has been shown to me in abundance. For that I will always be grateful. 

I say it in my special, and I say it again tonight. This is YOUR special. YOU made this happen. When I was feeling weak, you made me strong. When I was blind to hope, you showed me the way. When it was dark, YOU shed the light. Through days of doubting, YOU reminded me that the dream was possible. That I wasn't wrong to take the road less traveled. Now we stand as one, ready for everyone, believers and non believers to see what we have put together. What all the efforts were for. In that, we trust. Although it may have been tough for other artists and stations to pledge in August, they didnt have an army like I have. They didnt have YOU. Those who believe in a dream. In the American dream. Going alone and swimming upstream....and getting there. 

Although we have achieved a lot, there is much to do. More to achieve. This coming month will determine a lot. If we pledge well, then more and more stations will come on board. Remember, just cause your local station has signed up yet to air it. Fear not. It is available again in NOV/DEC and ALL stations can get it if they want it. You need to tell them how much you want it. Convince the unconvinced and leave the converting to me. Last thing any of us want is to hear..."you should have told us"!! 

In the meantime, I ask, if possible, to pledge during my airing and show your support. Tomorrow I will be live in Grand Rapids, MI answering phones. Its also airing in Austin,TX  I believe. Lets do this folks. 

August 1

Grand Rapids, MI  

WGVU 8:30pm (Eastern time)

Station Visit, Live

http://www.wgvu.org/

1-800-442-2771

Can make pledges online now

Direct link to pledge: https://secure.publicbroadcasting.net/wgvu/default/form.pledgemain?action=pledge&pg=pledgeForm. Scroll Scroll down in the box marked "Television Selections" to find Paul Byrom's program pledge gifts.

*This station offers the option to break up the pledge into 2, 4, or 12 monthly payments.*

 

August 1

Austin, TX  

KLRU 10:00pm (Central time)

http://www.klru.org/

1-866-910-5578

Can make pledges online now

Direct link to pledge: http://www.klru.org/program/paul-byrom-this-is-the-moment/

*This station offers the option to break up the pledge into 12 monthly payments.*

Thank you all so much for EVERYTHING. It will NEVER be forgotten. EVER. I am nothing without your support. 

Keep well my loves

                 my doves 

                 my eggs!! 

Best 

Paul 

x

PUBLIC TELEVISION PREVIEW

Hi All,

Well after months, even years of planning, my first solo American Public Television special is close to airing. We are currently offering it to stations all over the country through APT and I am hoping it will be on your local public TV station in August and September.
I am very proud of what I have achieved with this special and hope you enjoy it. The tv special is one hour long and the DVD which will be released with it will be just under two hours. So plenty still to see if you get the DVD.
Please click on the link to see a little teaser, and if you like it,let me know, and indeed spread the word for me. Also, contact your local station and ask if and when they will be airing it.
Finally, there will also be a Christmas version due to air in Nov/Dec, so if they are not showing it in August,bug them for Christmas!
This is your special. Its because of you and your support that I have been able to do this. I hope you enjoy it and look forward to hearing the feedback!! Huge thank you to also goes to Phil Coulter, Joe Csibi, Dave Hart, Brent Carpenter, Damian McGinty and Janine Divita. Your contribution to this special has made all the difference. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart!

Keep well
My Loves
My Doves
My Eggs

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hUwwGcUXvLQ

Long time no speak!!

Well it certainly feels a million years since sitting down to do a blog, and for that I'm sorry. I suppose the best and only excuse I can give is that the past three months in particular have been the busiest I have ever had. For that, I am not complaining. Its hard to know how far to go back, so I will just do a recap since hitting 2013.

Christmas and the New Year was celebrated in my new home, New York. Dominique had all her family, bar one sister visit for the holiday season. This as you can imagine was a lot of fun. Although I didnt get home to see my family, and I missed them terribly, I am very fortunate to get on so well with Dom's family. This I suppose is a blessing considering they are stuck with me for the rest of my life, and I, them! We did all the top things "to do" during the Christmas period. Mass in St.Patricks Cathedral with Cardinal Dolan, ice skating,drinks at the Plaza then the big dinner followed up with a sing song!! All in all, a fantastic New York Christmas. Next Christmas,will be with with my Mom, sister and family! So I am already looking forward to that!

In January, we headed to Florida to board The Phil Coulter, Tranquility Cruise with Holland America and Travel Concepts. This was the 5th time I had the honour of guesting with Phil on the cruise. Each year I say, "that was the best one" and then the next one tops it. Im not sure how we will top this one. I suppose the best way is to do it all again next January!! I think whats works so well on Phil's cruise is that there is a nice size number in attendance, and that over the course of the 10 days, we as performers get to know the cruisers well and they get to know us too. We all become friends and share many good laughs. Generally at my expense!!!! I am always excited when asked to do it and look forward to doing the next one with Phil and Damian this January. Here's to the 39 club!! (cruisers will get that!)

When I got back from the Caribbean, its was head down and full focus on the upcoming months. Tied in of course with some much needed dieting and detoxing!! The goal aside from a few gigs splattered out here and there, was to get ready for the biggest event in my career to date. My very own TV Special! This of course has been in motion for a while now, and a dream for a VERY long while!
All made possible by truly the best fans in the world. After months of fundraising and seeking investment, it was a touch away.
Part of that was secured by a group of ladies in St.Louis who put together a private concert for 40 of their friends. When I heard it was something that was going to happen I was thrilled. I had never done the like before. So I was all set to head to St.Louis when all of a sudden I hear there is a huge snow storm coming to New York and that my flight out was going to be cancelled. I didnt know what to do. I knew that of the 40, some had travelled the length of the country to be there. Two had even come from Australia! Therefore I couldnt postpone. So I left on the Thursday for D.C by train, and from there I caught a flight to St.Louis. The concert was held in a beautiful family home, and the warmth of which I was received was overwhelming. We had great fun over the 2 and a half hours. Music, chats and lots of laughs. A night I will never forget. Well worth the journey for me. I hope so too for the 40 who came to  it!

All of a sudden its March and the show and filming is penciled in for the 20th. Phil Coulter had kindly agreed to be the musical director, and my long time friend and producer Joe Csibi was on board to help too.Damian McGinty was coming in from LA to do a guest spot, and then Janine Divita was coming from Broadway to also appear. A really strong team!
We were all set for the shoot at the State Theatre, PA with my orchestra when almost at the last minute we fell short on some of the money. It was all about to be pulled when very kindly, a donor stepped up to the plate from wonderful Canada. The country I want to perform in more. I couldn't believe it. So strong was their will for me to do well and build my career that they were willing to step up to the plate. Help out and give me the shot at the dream. I will be forever grateful to all who donated. Not just because of money, but for the fact that it was there for all to see, that I had a huge army of well wishers behind me. When things are bleak, as often they seem, I will always know that I have many behind me. Rooting for me. You cant put a price on that.
On the 16th Damian arrived into NYC so that we could have a couple of days rehearsing our "routine". Needless to say neither of us can be classed as dancers, but we worked hard, and I believe it worked out very well on the night. The reaction he got when he came on the stage was incredible, and rightly deserved. For a friend to come on board and work as hard as he did for a friend, says a lot about him as a person. At this point, Ive run out of words for that kid.
When we arrived on the 18th in PA to base camp for the following few days, it was snowing, and I was worried that my director Brent Carpenter and crew would struggle to get in from LA. I went straight to see the theatre, and Susan Rose, my lighting designer and genius was already at work! I was stumped. The stage, lighting and venue was mind blowing. More than I had ever dreamed off. This was going to be bigger than I hoped. That feeling of having a dream unfurl in front of your eyes was emotional. It was becoming real.
The next day started early with rehearsals with my orchestra. It was going to be a long day as everything needed to be rehearsed at least twice! They were a fantastic group of musicians and very obliging. After 8 hours, we called it a day.
Then before we knew it, it was March 20. D Day!
I had breakfast with Phil and Dominique, talked over cues with him (which of course went out the window as soon as I went live!) and then went to the theatre to get ready for dress rehearsal. Hair done, make up on, now it was time! All of this was going to be 100% live, so there was a lot of pressure. After years of wanting it, now was the time to prove I could do it! There was one or two hiccups but I didnt worry as that is normal in theatre. "A bad dress, is a great show". I kept telling myself that!
After an hour or so of pre recording pledges for PBS, I grabbed some food and then started to focus on the main event. 1500 theatre full of people there to see what this was all about.

I stood side stage as Phil warmed up the crowd. The reaction was immense. Hairs were standing all over my body....and I have a few!! Nerves kicked in. Thoughts of mom, and the family were running through my head. Grandma praying it would all go well, and grandads mass card in my breast pocket, as is always the case during a performance.
The music started and I began to sing with a lump in my throat off stage. When I walked on, I can honestly say, I have NEVER got a reaction like it. Everyone was on their feet and ready for a great night. I was so stumped Im not sure what came out of my mouth for the first line.
The show ran longer than most,but that is to be expected with a filming. That being said, I didn't feel like it was running late. There were many special moments throughout it. From the opening moments to  when Damian walked out and got a huge ovation, to the tender moment where Phil sat at the piano and accompanied me to Scorn Not His Simplicity. A moment that took him on the hop. The reaction to his most personal of songs was overwhelming. Like a Tsunami, the applause just kept coming. Then of course to have the beautiful and talented Janine Divita join me also added so much.
There were many tears, many laughs and many memories. Then all of a sudden, it was over. In the past!
After, I felt I had gone twelve rounds with Mike Tyson. Shattered. Feet throbbing, voice tired and body needing a bed. The sense of achievement was thrilling, and to be surrounded by so many who loved me      
was the icing on the cake. There will be many specials on tv over the next while that will have bigger budgets and bigger stars, but I genuinely feel, you will never see a show with so much heart and feeling, from ALL involved. A truly special moment in my life.

The following night I went out for dinner with Damian and Phil in NY. It was a great night of just sitting around and talking about everything and anything. Until the early hours of the morning when I was bent over the white phone to God asking WWHHHHHHHHYYYYY???!!!! It seems I shouldn't of had the chicken tenders. Both Damian and Phil were perfectly fine, so I knew thats what it was.
The next 48 hrs were truly horrific. All ahead of my next gig in Natick, MA. I took the train and had the sweats and cold shivers all the way. I slept like a baby when I finally got to the hotel and hoped I would be fine for the concert. I was....just about.

Since then Ive been coming back to normal. Catching up on life, as work was all consuming. I was without question a nightmare to live with, and for that I will always be grateful to my lady Dominique. She was so supportive and understanding. Not many would put up with a singer, and Dom does it so effortlessly. I am truly blessed to have her in my life....for the rest of my life!!

Last weekend I got invited to sing again for the Boston Celtics. Its always such an honour for me. I truly love singing the National Anthem of any country. The Star Spangled Banner is such a beautiful song and one I will always take great pride singing. The crowd in the TD Garden are always so appreciative and vocal, that you rarely leave the court feeling anything but electric.
On Saturday, myself and a couple of friends went skiing for the day, whilst Dom went for lunch and shopping with her friends. We got together again for dinner some wine and an open fire. Great food and great company os hard to find, and whenever we go to Boston, we are right in the throws of it. We really feel those in Boston are our second family.
Naturally it felt right then to spend Easter Sunday with them, and I even went out front to play street hockey with the kids. Me being the biggest one! Needless to say, when the ball came to the Irish guy, the kids knew to duck. Between the swing of the stick and the direction of the ball, I was a thing of nightmares. Great fun none the less.

Anyway, aside from a head cold, I am feeling great. Feeling happy and excited about what the future holds for me both professionally and personally. We are in the depths of preparing for our wedding, and that takes a lot I am discovering. So much for just turning up on the day!

Life is good, and sometimes its important to tell yourself that when things are going well. We all face tough times in life. No one escapes that. However the character and strength we show through those times stands to us. It also makes us appreciate the good times even better.

Thank you all for your continued support and belief. I wouldn't be where I am without you. I will always be grateful

Keep well and roll on the Summer!!!

Love you all
My Loves
My Doves
My Eggs

Paul xxx