Statue of Irish musician Rory Gallagher unveiled in Belfast
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A commemorative statue of Irish composer and musician Rory Gallagher has been unveiled in Belfast, honouring his life, music and connection to the city. The life-sized statue of Gallagher is located outside Ulster Hall, a venue he played regularly. The statue was crafted by sculptors Anto Brennan, Jessica Checkley of Bronze Art Ireland and David O’Brien of Bronze Art Ireland.
It is inspired by a January 1972 Melody Maker magazine cover shot of Gallagher onstage at Ulster Hall. Born in Ballyshannon and raised in Cork, Gallagher moved in 1967 to Belfast, a city that would become a cornerstone of his musical journey. It was here that Taste, his first blues-rock trio, played clubs such as Sammy Huston’s, The Maritime and Club Rado.
The final Taste concert, featuring John Wilson and Richard McCracken, was at Queen’s University in 1970. At the start of Gallagher’s solo career, he formed a new band with drummer Wilgar Campbell and bassist Gerry McAvoy. Later, he would bring on Lou Martin and Brendan O’Neill, Belfast musicians, who helped to shape his career.
This year marks the 30th anniversary of Gallagher’s passing. Renowned for his soulful playing, dynamic performances and dedication to his craft, Gallagher established himself as a trailblazer in Irish rock music. Over the course of his career, he toured around the world constantly, selling millions of records in the process.
