Veteran folk singer-songwriter Ralph McTell to play two gigs in Cork

British singer-songwriter Ralph McTell will embark on his most extensive tour of Ireland to date in 2025, which will include two dates in Cork.

On April 27 he will be performing at Ballymaloe Grainstore, while the Cork Opera House will be the venue he will play on May 11.

The Irish tour overall will consist of 20 shows over the course of four weeks.

As a stalwart of the folk scene for more than five decades, Mr McTell’s music continues to resonate with fans of all generations. 

He made his debut in 1968 with the album ‘Eight Frames a Second’. While Mr McTell is best known for his song ‘Streets of London’, which earned him an Ivor Novello Award and has been covered by over 200 artists around the world.

Lifetime achievement award

While in 2002, he was presented with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards.

Speaking about his upcoming tour to Ireland, Mr McTell said: “I have been doing shows in Ireland for many years. Firstly, in Belfast in 1969 and later in Dublin, eventually getting around the whole country, but it has taken a while to do a national tour. In 2025.

"I shall be undertaking my biggest and most comprehensive set of dates around Ireland ever. My 2023 tour was hugely enjoyable, and 2025 is going to be a real celebration. I’m looking forward to it already.”

With this upcoming tour, 2025 is a landmark year in the career but also the life of Mr McTell, who will be after hitting the 80-year mark.

A celebration of longevity, artistry and a continued passion for live music are among the things Mr McTell envisions from this tour. His connection with Irish audiences has been built over the years, beginning with his first show in Belfast in 1969. Since then, McTell has performed in iconic venues across the island of Ireland, but this national tour will be his most comprehensive yet.

For more information and for ticket bookings, visit: https://www.ralphmctell.co.uk.