Brian Byrne earns Golden Globe nomination

From the pen of distinguished Irish composer Brian Byrne, 'Lay Your Head Down' has been nominated for a Golden Globe for Best Original Song. The track was recorded by Sinead O'Connor and the RTÉ Concert Orchestra in RTÉ Radio Centre in June, with Byrne himself conducting, and featured in the Glenn Close film Albert Nobbs.

In a tough category, 'Lay Your Head Down' is up against the likes of Madonna and the partnership of Elton John/Bernie Taupin.

Byrne has a strong relationship with the RTÉ Concert Orchestra and next conducts them at the upcoming New Year’s Eve concert at the National Concert Hall, with special guests Georgie Fame and Simon Delaney. On March 10, the orchestra presents a full celebration concert of his music at the NCH.

Elsewhere, hilarious Irish comedy The Guard has got the nod of recognition. Brendan Gleeson is up for Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture - Comedy Or Musical. The results will be announced at the Golden Globes ceremony on January 12. The full list of nominees in both categories:

Best Original Song
'Hello Hello' – Gnomeo & Juliet
Music By: Elton John
Lyrics By: Bernie Taupin

'Keeper, The' – Machine Gun Preacher
Music & Lyrics By: Chris Cornell

'Lay Your Head Down' – Albert Nobbs
Music By: Brian Byrne
Lyrics By: Glenn Close

'Living Proof, The' – The Help
Music By: Thomas Newman, Mary J. Blige and Harvey Mason, Jr.
Lyrics By: Mary J. Blige, Harvey Mason, Jr. and Damon Thomas

'Masterpiece' – W.E.
Music & Lyrics By: Madonna, Julie Frost and Jimmy Harry

Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture - Comedy Or Musical
Jean Dujardin – The Artist

Brendan Gleeson – The Guard

Joseph Gordon-Levitt – 50/50

Ryan Gosling – Crazy, Stupid, Love.

Owen Wilson –Midnight In Paris