My Country Life - Episode 4: Derek Ryan

Derek Ryan started out in life as a pop star in the early Noughties with teen idols D-Side.
With hits including Real World, he performed on the BBC’s iconic Top Of The Pops TV chart show and played major venues such as London’s Wembley Arena and Dublin’s Point Theatre, now the 3Arena.
However, when D-Side eventually fizzled out, Derek found himself struggling to make ends meet playing the pubs in London.
Now one of Ireland’s top country singers and a prolific songwriter, here on My Country Life, Derek now recalls his idyllic childhood growing up in Milltown, Garryhill, Co Carlow, and his rollercoaster ride in the fast lane of pop music.
He reveals how seeing Nathan Carter performing was a turning point in his career, and he recalls the pain of losing his beloved mum, Sally, who inspired his poignant song, To Waltz With My Mother Again.
The My Country Life podcast is available now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and Amazon.
Today's Headlines
court date | Man (39) charged with manslaughter of ex-Irish soccer star Alan Bourke
pub smash | Bystanders hailed for saving punter’s lives after car crashes into Ireland's Four Courts bar
'Neglect' | Dublin mum charged over ‘deplorable’ home where kids had no food or heat
blooming thief | Ex-chef says he was ‘stupid’ for shoplifting potted plants from Dunnes Stores
Enjoy the ride | Couple caught having sex on Giant Wheel at amusement park in Ohio
Deadly Stuff | Funeral director and embalmer among Rose of Tralee 2022 hopefuls
killer moved | Wife-killer Joe O’Reilly moved to new prison after ‘clash’ with inmates
bro-mo | Conor McGregor and former Love Islander Rob Lipsett embrace as they meet in Spain
SORRY TAIL | Dogs owned by Fianna Fail councillor’s father left in metal trailer in scorching heat
Firearm fright | Terrifying moment a man is caught on camera with a handgun on busy Dublin street