With the clock ticking down to tonight’s tribute gig in Whelan’s for the late journo, George Byrne, Hot Press has been getting the inside track on what to expect.
While we are sworn to secrecy on the specifics, what we can say is that Something Happens – one of George’s favourite Irish bands of all time – will be tailoring their set tonight to include classics from bands and artists that George himself particularly revered. Anyone who heard Happens’ lead singer Tom Dunne perform ‘God Only Knows’ at George’s funeral will be well aware of the potential for moments of musical magic.
'Celebrating George' boasts a star-studded line-up, underlining the high esteem in which he was held among the music community. Playing on the night will be: Something Happens, Paul Cleary of The Blades, Pugwash, Trouble Pilgrims, Dermot Lambert of Blink, The Drays (Stephen Ryan's new band) and plenty of special guests.
Proceeds of the gig will go to a local Liberties charity. Some tickets are still available at [link]whelanslive.com[/link].

George Byrne – from Hot Press on Vimeo.