From early evening you could sense the buzz around the Hodson Bay Hotel in Athlone. Eager country music followers began to arrive in their droves ahead of one of the most prestigious nights on the Irish country music scene.

The Conquerors, featuring Tony Maher, Frankie Colohan, Lorraine McDonald, Paul Vignoles and Dave Cooley were the resident band for the night and they more than consolidated their status as one of the best all-round bands on the circuit.

Joining them on the night were Richard Nelson and Damien McGeehan.

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Sam O’Doherty provided a masterclass in good old-fashioned entertainment, wooing the crowd from the moment he came on stage and showing why he was such a worthy recipient of the Hall of Fame award.

Billy McFarland was chuffed with his award, a long overdue recognition for a true professional and one of the real gentlemen in the business.

Tony Kerr and Jordan Mogey, also from Antrim, got a great response from the appreciative audience. Their duets on Sing Me Back Home and Today I Started Loving You Again in the bar after the main show were just sensational.

Des Willoughby’s rendition of Boolavogue was a showstopper. John Hogan and TR Dallas had the folks singing along to some country classics. Johnny Brady and Gerry Guthrie delivered highly energetic performances. The Murphys from Kerry showed why they have something new and original to offer.

Dominic Kirwan and Mary Duff were popular winners of the country duo award as they both celebrate 25 years on the country scene.

The Moynihan Brothers from Wexford were over the moon with their award, while the Bachelors in Trouble from Waterford had the place in stitches with their comedy act.

It was a big night too for many of the ladies in country music. Louise Morrissey, Muriel O’Connor, Kathy Crinion, Bernie Heaney and Maria Butterly all delivered class performances and so many in the audience saluted Irish Country Living on providing such a major recognition platform to the various first-time winners.

Pat McKenna from Derry and Ciaran Rosney from Offaly picked up their second awards, following on from last year’s inaugural success.

Paddy O’Brien, who was honoured with the Country Legend award, reflected the appreciation of so many of the winners with his kind and gracious words of thanks on stage.

Crystal Swing from Cork made a surprise guest appearance and brought their happy vibes to the show.

A crew from Irish TV Sky 191 recorded material for an upcoming special show on our big night, while Willie, Breda and Barry from Cork Music Station relayed the show live via internet radio.

Brendan Mulvey ensured that everything worked like clockwork on the night while several members of the Irish Farmers Journal team, as well as Spain Sound and Lighting, all played a role in ensuring that this was truly a special night on the Irish country music calendar.