Buncrana veterinary nurse aims to be Ireland’s new Country Music star

A farming life, and a life spent bringing music to the people, is what Donegal Country singer and veterinary nurse, Jack Larry, is all about.

The 23-year-old Buncrana native has his sights set on becoming Ireland’s new Country Music star when he appears on the first episode of the 21st season of Glór Tíre - TG4’s hit Country Music show - which returns to our screens on Tuesday, March 4, at 9.30pm.

Jack will appear alongside fellow contestant Marion Kelly, from Limerick - two of eight contestants battling it out for the coveted title of Ireland’s Glór Tíre Country Music Champion 2025. He is one of two Inishowen hopefuls, with Michaela Harkin from Moville also taking part.

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Also performing on the show will be Mike Denver, one of the most popular and established names on the Irish Country scene, who is mentoring both singers.

“It’s a lot to take in,” Jack admits about his upcoming appearance on Glór Tíre. “It’s always been something I’ve watched on TV every year but never imagined being on it - especially as Glór Tíre is very important because there are very few Country Music programmes on TV. This time of year everyone looks forward to seeing it and watching it.”

He is also proud to be one of two contestants this year representing Donegal and is more than aware of the county’s immense contribution to Irish Country. “Many of the big figures in Country Music in Ireland - Daniel O’Donnell, Margo - they’re all up the top of Ireland.”

For his Glór Tíre episode, Jack will perform his recent single, ‘I’ll Settle For Old Ireland’, and, as a duet with Mike Denver, a version of the 1988 Buck Ownes/Dwight Yoakam hit, ‘The Streets of Bakersfield’.

Jack is delighted to have this chance to work with Denver, who he cites as one of his key inspirations. “Growing up I’ve always listened to Mike, he’s always on in the house, and I’ve seen him live many times,” he says. “Having the chance to work with him is a big help. His experience cannot be matched. The most important advice he’s given me has been to relax and enjoy it all, and that’s the best advice he could give.”

That respect is mutual as Denver is full of praise for Jack and his approach to Country Music. “Jack brings it back to that old Country style and sound,” he says. “He’s a great voice.”

Away from the music, Jack still has his veterinarian responsibilities, but like music, it is something he is passionate about. “I’m a qualified veterinary nurse currently working on a local dairy/sheep farm,” he says. “I also keep a few sheep of my own. I enjoy the outdoors and find that work very rewarding.”

Glór Tíre is broadcast on Ireland’s national Irish language station, TG4, and produced by Galway production company, Gael Media. This year’s contestants are John Mullan (Derry/Tyrone), Erin Noone (Meath), Marion Kelly (Limerick), Jack Larry (Donegal), Michaela Harkin (Donegal), Conor Owens (Fermanagh), Paddy Treacy (Fermanagh), and Jack Gladney (Carlow). The show is presented by Aoife Ní Thuairsig. The judges are RTÉ Raidio na Gaeltachta’s Jó Ní Chéide and singer Caitriona Ní Shuilleabháin. The guest judge for the 4 March show will be the Sunday World’s Eddie Rowley.