Down Kilkenny way, Johnny Barry is preparing for another big showbusiness night. The veteran late-night host on KCLR is launching a new CD at the Springhill Court Hotel next Tuesday night, 16 December.

Johnny Barry’s Favourites is a collection of 23 songs which have been popular on Johnny’s shows over the years. Some artists have more than one song on the album.

The singers featured in the collection are Declan Nerney, Richie Kavanagh, TR Dallas, Daniel O’Donnell, Marcy Darcy, Brendan Grace, Theresa and The Stars, Pat McKenna, Seamus Moore, Crystal Swing, Trudi Lalor and Philomena Keyes, Derek Ryan, Paddy O’Brien, Michael English, Louise Morrissey, Pat Whelan, Dominic Kirwan and Tommy Lawlor.

“They were all very helpful and supportive of the idea to compile and launch this CD,” says Johnny. “We are all looking forward to the night and I am thankful to KCLR for their great support as well. Brendan Hennessy will be the main compere on the night.

“Theresa and The Stars and Tony Kehoe will provide the music and they will be joined by Richie Kavanagh, Pat McKenna, Just 2, Mary Darcy, Frankie Scorr and Dessie Hynes, John Gorman and others, for the dance and cabaret night which starts at 9pm. Parts of the proceeds from the album are being donated to the local St Vincent de Paul Society.

“While the CD is being launched ahead of the Christmas, it is very much an all-year-round CD. The album is €15 and will be widely available all over the region and further afield. People from outside our region can contact me at the station and I will arrange to get it posted out to them. It should be a great night at the launch in the Springhill Court and I am very excited about this venture,” says the black and amber legend.