“Everywhere I go people say how much they are looking forward to the big night. They are thrilled that country music is being put on the pedestal that it should have been on ages ago,” says Mike.

The country music star says that the awards should be a major advantage to the entire Irish country music scene.

“I am delighted that it is happening now for country music and that it is at long last getting the recognition that it truly deserves. I would like to compliment those in RTE and the Journal and behind the scenes who are putting together what should be a massive show and one that simply has to be a major advantage to the entire scene in the times ahead.

“There is a lot of talk about the RTE night and I understand they are pulling out all the stops with what promises to be a fabulous production on the night. We are encouraging all our friends to make sure they spread the news about the big show which goes out live on RTÉ One between 9.30pm and 11pm on Friday 24 June. It will enjoy a huge audience so don’t miss it,” says the genial Portumna man.

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Mike Denver: 'Irish Country Music Awards is the talk of the country'

Mike Denver says that the RTÉ Irish Country Music Awards, in association with the Irish Farmers Journal, is the talk of the country world here at home. The awards takes place on Friday 24 June.