The annual Irish County Music Awards are taking place on May 19 and two special guests are arriving from the States to attend it.

Nashville Hall Of Fame legend Larry Gatlin and superstar in the making Mo Pitney, will be jetting in from Tennessee to perform at the second Irish Country Music Awards.
Grammy-winner Gatlin has written songs for Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Glen Campbell and Barbara Streisand. While, Mo Pitney shot to fame in 2014 when his debut single 'Country' entered the Top 40 Country Charts in 2014 and stayed there for 19 weeks.

“When I was asked to come and sing on the Irish CMA Awards with Irish TV, it seemed like the perfect time to do just that,” said Gatlin.

“I am honoured and grateful beyond words to travel to Ireland for this event. Keep the faith and see you in Armagh City.”

Also performing on the night is Philomena Begley, Lee Matthews and Johnny Brady. The ceremony is live on television from the Armagh City Hotel from 8 to 10:30pm.

Ireland’s top country music showcase will also feature performances from Roly Daniels, Niamh McGlinchey, Caitlin and Joe Moore, Mary Duff and Kathy Crinion, Hurricane Highway, Honky Tonk Angels, Mick Flavin and Cliona Hagan.

This year’s winners will be determined by a public vote and Irish country music fans have until May 13 to vote for their favourite act on Irishtv.ie and in local press.

Categories include best male, best female, best video, songwriter of the year, country music venue of the year, single of the year, album of the year, country music DJ of the year, living legend award, best newcomer and hall of fame.

Presenting the awards this year will be Irish TV’s Malachi Cush, whose weekly country music programme with Susan McCann is a huge hit.

“These are the only Country Music Awards in Ireland that are truly reflective of public opinion with the public in control of the results,” said Malachi.

“The event was so well received last year and with two best-selling American Country artists in this year’s line-up viewers are guaranteed something really special.

“I urge all acts to engage with their fan base to ensure they maximize their vote this year.”