Kilkenny is about to play host to over 80 musicians and music lovers from Texas who will roll into town for almost two weeks of live music, kicking off in Billy Byrnes, John Street, on August 28th. Not only will the city be treated to some incredible Texas music, every gig is free!
The Texas Tornado Tour has made Kilkenny a stop on their calendar every year since 2018, however, this year the Marble City will be more than just s stop, it will be their base and main destination for their entire trip.
The tour consists of some of the finest country artists in Texas who will take the stage in various venues throughout Kilkenny City.
Here are the dates and venues so far –
Tuesday August 29th – Billy Byrnes – John Street – 7pm
Nine artists will take the stage in Billy Byrnes for the opening night including Jeremiah Herrin who is an Americana artist from North Texas. His music is the sound of bluegrass with a heavy influence of southern rock. Jeremiah has been influenced by bands such as The Boxcars, The Steeldrivers and ZZ Top. His songwriting will capture you as it always tells a story. You can’t help but hear the bluegrass influence in his writing.
Also on the bill is Randy Brown, Mike Mancy, Austin Allsup, Jeff Grossman, Mike Stanley, Steve Helmes, Billy Don Burns and Ben McPherson.
Wednesday August 30th – An Poc Fada – Rose Inn Street – 7pm
This night will feature five fantastic artists including the legendary Billy Don Burns. Billy Don Burns is a true Country Music Warrior. He wears his battle scars with honour, depicting the stories of his life in his songs with brutal and beautiful honesty. He’s respected far and wide for his long career in songwriting and performing. BDB is one of the few remaining original outlaw country music singer/songwriters, and is in his 53rd year in the business.
His songs have been recorded by many of the old greats like Willie Nelson, Johnny Paycheck, Mel Tillis, Sammy Kershaw. And, by many of the new guys like Cody Jinks, Colter Wall, Whitey Morgan and more. BDB has made several appearances on the Grand Ole Opry. When his “Desperate Men” album went to #1 on the Americana chart, replacing Johnny Cash who had been there for 14 weeks, Billy Don received a handwritten note; “Congratulations! You deserve it. I’ll be happy to move out of the #1 spot and let you have it. I been there. Done that.” – Johnny Cash
His current album features country music legends Cody Jinks and Shooter Jennings. Joining Billy on the line up is
Thursday August 31st – Set Theatre – John Street
This night is considered the main event for the Texas group as they will feature many of the artists on the trip backed by the incredible JC All Stars Band.
Many of the artists are veterans who take part in the Rock The Troops programme which offers healing through songwriting and music. They will write songs here in Kilkenny and perform them on the night in Set Theatre.
Also on the line up are some incredible Texas artists including Randy Brown who has been a Texas singer, songwriter, musician and showman for over thirty years. This troubadour can entertain a crowd like no other. Randy has made a huge impact on the hearts of music lovers not only in Texas but worldwide. Hugely popular on the Texas music scene, Randy is no stranger to Kilkenny and is looking forward to returning to entertain the Marble City.
Friday September 1st – Ryans Bar
The JC All Stars are due to rock Ryans on September 1st with an impressive line-up of guest artists including Steve Helms from Cleburne, Texas, who has enjoyed the success of 24 radio singles, gaining him huge popularity throughout the USA.
Austin Allsup is also on the line up for the Ryans show. Austin was a finalist in the American Voice contest, performing to over 6 million people on live television, gaining him a huge following throughout America. Austin has a new album coming out in the coming months. Also on the bill is Mike Mancy, Ben McPherson, Billy Don Burns and Jeremiah Herrin.
Saturday September 2nd– The Barrel Yard at The Smithwick’s Experience – 5pm
Local band, The presidents are due to hit the stage at the Barrel Yard on September 2nd and they will be joined by a selection of Texas artists for a jam session. This promises to be a party with The Presidents classic rock cover songs and a tinge of Texas from our visitors.
More gigs to be announced next week.
