BELFAST-born Strabane musician Paul Brady is to receive the Oh Yeah Legend Award at this year's Northern Ireland Music Prize event.
The presentation will be made at the Ulster Hall in Belfast on Wednesday November 15 during the annual awards night which celebrates the best local music.
Born in Belfast and raised in Strabane, Paul Brady's career spans over 50 years in music, including stints in The Johnstons and Planxty alongside a distinguished solo career. His songs have been covered by artists including Carlos Santana, Tina Turner, Cliff Richard, Cher and Carole King.
In 2015, Brady was recognized with a Lifetime Achievement Award from President of Ireland Michael D Higgins, while his autobiography Crazy Dreams was published last year.
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“It’s a great joy to be told of this award and I’d like to thank those who decided to honour me in this way," he says.
"Little did I think when, a callow 15 year old, I took a gig playing piano in a Donegal hotel for £4 a week plus my keep, that my path would lead me here. That path has taken me through many countries, many musical genres, many lasting friendships and thrilling collaborations and this award is the icing on a very rich cake. I feel so privileged.
"Northern Ireland has always been for me a very fertile musical environment, having such a wealth of different musical sources and influences, from pop, folk, country, blues and Jazz. All of this richness has touched me from an early age and I immersed myself in it all over the years.
"I’m gratified that whatever mixture has come out of me has given some pleasure and sustenance to you, my fellow Nordies. Thank you again.“
After collecting his award, Paul will take to the stage for a live performance. There will also be live sets from a selection of shortlisted acts in the Best Album, Single and Live Act categories, plus last year’s BBC ATL New Artist winners The Florentinas.
