Cliona Hagan is one busy lady. The young Tyrone singer is proving a big hit and her classy shows are going down a storm.Back in June, Cliona was the recipient of the inaugural RTÉ/ICMA accolade for best newcomer award. It was a timely recognition of the impact being made by the singer, who qualified from Edinburgh University four years ago.
Cliona Hagan is one busy lady. The young Tyrone singer is proving a big hit and her classy shows are going down a storm.
Back in June, Cliona was the recipient of the inaugural RTÉ/ICMA accolade for best newcomer award. It was a timely recognition of the impact being made by the singer, who qualified from Edinburgh University four years ago.
Straight To You is the title of her debut album and Cliona is thrilled with the response.
“I wanted to do an album with an outreach to as many people as possible. I was blessed to have so many brilliant musicians work on the album, while Jonathan Owens, Dave Arkins and Stephen Smyth all did great jobs on producing and arranging the various tracks.”
Her debut single and video, We’re All Going To Die Some Day, generated a lot of interest and introduced her to country followers in Ireland and the UK. Now it is full steam ahead promoting the new album.
“Putting this album together has been a long and creative process. From hours spent at home with my family listening to old LPs, tapes and CDs when selecting songs, to many days in the studio and endless cups of coffee, I’ve loved it all.
“Straight To You would be nothing without the exceptional musicians, songwriters and producers who worked on it. Thank you for sharing your talents and expertise with me,” says Cliona.
Among the songs featured on the 14-track collection are Travelin’ Soldier, Dancing Your Memory Away, We’re All Gonna Die Someday, The Cowboy Yodel, Dance On, I Need Someone To Hold Me When I Cry, and Let Him Go Let Him Tarry.
Cliona is also fronting a weekly country show on Sky 266 which features a selection of videos from Irish and American performers.
Along with her busy life on stage and on the road, she is a freelance music teacher specialising in the piano, guitar and fiddle. Among her favourite singers are Emmylou Harris, Martina McBride, Philomena Begley and Susan McCann. Her manager, Aidan Quinn, is the son of Philomena Begley.
The album is being promoted and distributed by Raymond Stewart and staff at Sharpe Music in Dungannon. Another launch date will be held in the Four Seasons Hotel in Monaghan town on Sunday 20 November.
“I’m loving it all and meeting so many new people. I am so lucky to have the support of so many good people and a huge thank you to all who have helped me in my career so far,” reflects Cliona.
For more details on Cliona’s and upcoming shows and events, visit www.clionahagan.com
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