HUGE crowds flocked to the city centre on Friday night for an outdoor concert headlined by former Westlife star Shane Filan and the cream of Derry’s live music talent.
The ‘Hear the City Sing’ concert marked the first of Derry’s 2014 Music City events, with Friday’s night’s show staged as a celebration of Derry’s success of the city’s year as UK City of Culture in 2013.
Those in attendance at the show were treated to performances from the Music Promise Junior Choir, soloist Erica Curran and local stars The Clameens and Little Bear.
However, the concert also saw an element of crowd participation when they joined Little Bear in singing happy birthday to the evening’s host, BBC Radio 1 DJ Edith Bowman, before Shane Filan took to the stage for his headline set.
Friday night also witnessed the launch of the Global Rainbow installation which will be beamed across the city until Tuesday night.
Commenting, the Mayor of Derry Martin Reilly said that he hoped that the programme of events planned for Music City during 2014 would not only continue to showcase the northwest’s musical talent but also ‘reaffirm the city as a location for large scale events’.
We are delighted that these events will also include Music City Day, Other Voices and the Beach Boys, and as we progress through 2014 there will be further announcements.”
The Mayor added the naddition of free Friday evening live music performances in local cafes, restaurants, hotels and retail outlets between 5pm and 9pm was a welcome addition to the city’s offering.
Meanwhile, Oonagh McGillion, Legacy Director with Derry City Council, added: “The showcase tonight was about creating a buzz for 2014 and providing local talent with the opportunity to shine.
“We want to continue to tell the world that we are the coolest small city in Europe and that we are extremely proud, talented and ambitious people with great aspirations for the future.”

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