Robert takes to the air

Robert Mizzell is taking to the air in more ways than one these times. The Louisiana-born singer who has made Ireland his home for the past two decades has been on the RTÉ Radio One airwaves on recent Saturday nights, hosting his own series, Simply Country.

The programme, which airs between 10pm and 11pm, features Robert choosing a selection of his Irish and American country favourites, peppered with chat and background information about his choices.

Robert will also lead a tour to Tennessee from the 22-31 October 2018 and plans for this special trip are now complete. For details, contact Sharon on 087-3410 550 or email info@countrymusictours.ie

Bernie calls it a day

Bernie Kane has brought the curtains down on 30 years as a country DJ. Big Bernie, as he was known to on-air listeners, recently signed off on Ocean FM where he presented his final show from their studio in Donegal Town.

Bernie reached a wide audience on Northwest Radio in former times and his voice became familiar across the western region when many of the shows were syndicated across both Midwest and Northwest Radio at the time.

Among those who phoned the final show to wish him all the best and express thanks for his support down the years were Big Tom, Mick Flavin, Nathan Carter, John Hogan, and John Farry, while the show was inundated with messages of goodwill and thanks from his loyal listeners.

Bernie always retained a great fondness for the traditional sounds of country music and never forgot the singers and musicians who put down the roots and foundations of the music here in Ireland, as well as the true veterans of the scene in America.

Big Bernie brought a fine sense of humour and enthusiasm to all his shows and he established a wonderful rapport with his loyal and dedicated followers. Many were the people he helped along the way in country music and he was always a true blue when it came to lending support and encouragement.

Big Bernie rendered a great service to country music over the last three decades and he will be greatly missed from the airwaves. His many friends join with us in wishing him all the best in the times ahead.

Brendan bereaved

Maureen Shine from Kielty, Athlone, who died last week in Portiuncla Hospital, Ballinasloe, following an illness, was a sister of popular singer and musician Brendan Shine.

Maureen, who was predeceased by her parents Paddy and Mary Frances and brother Owen, is deeply regretted by her brothers Padraig, Colm and Brendan and sister Annette (Durney), the family circle, neighbours and many friends. Condolences are tendered to the Shine family at this sad time.

Watch pout for Gerry and Pat

Well-known Waterford singer Gerry Walsh has teamed up with Pat Kelly from Carlow and they are now doing shows around the region and further afield. Pat was a member and manager of Robert Mizzell and the Country Kings for several years.

Gerry and Pat have huge knowledge of the country and entertainment scene garnered from years of stage experience. Gerry featured with various bands over the years, including a good stint with the famous Maurice Mulcahy Band. Contact Pat or Gerry for further details. Watch out for them if they happen to be down your way.