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The Cast => Darren Holden => Topic started by: OldFatGuy on September 09, 2008, 10:39AM



Title: Darren's Blog
Post by: OldFatGuy on September 09, 2008, 10:39AM
Glorious day for the High Kings and The Cats!

Hello everyone,

Greetings from Baltimore where we are experiencing torrential rain and thunderstorms at the moment.
We just did FOX TV here this morning and are gearing up for the first night of the High Kings US Tour!!
We are very excited and confident with this show and hope that the audiences will feel the same way when they hear us.

Well......What can I say about our day in Dublin's Croke Park.

We got to the stadium at midday and thousands of people were piling in at that stage so already we were getting the goosebumps!!

My dad and sister were in their seats for soundcheck so I knew where to look for them when we did it for real.

I was a bag of nerves before the game as "The Cats" from Kilkenny were once again going for 3 in a row of All Ireland hurling titles. These players are already immortal and had nothing left to prove.
But boy did they prove it once more!!

I actually was allowed into the players tunnel to watch some of the first half and when Kilkenny got their second goal in under a minute I just went ape!
I was beating the bodhran and jumping out of my skin almost on the pitch!!

It was hurling heaven for all of the many thousands there from home.

When we went out for the half time show, the game was already over as a contest.

I could really relax and enjoy our moment in the sun.

We had a huge reaction actually and the 82,000 strong crowd gave us a very warm reception and sang along with Rocky Road and Fields of Glory.

We were shown on two massive screens also, which was very cool.

I met quite a few officials from the Kilkenny team who I have known for many years since my hurling days, and they spoke very highly of our performnace and indeed, the team may show up at our show in Kilkenny in October!!

Thanks to the girls at the fansite for putting up the video footage of the match reports and homecoming!! It was great to see it. couldn't spot myself in the masses on the pitch though.


So, thats out of my system ( sorry I am hurling mad).

Tonight is a very special moment for the four of us and indeed everyone involved with the High Kings organization.

This is the moment we have waited for, the first US headlining tour.

We are ready!

Will let you know how it all goes. Fingers crossed!

Later,

Darren.

ps...........UP THE CATS!!!!!!


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: timi on September 09, 2008, 09:25PM
Beat me to it again, Rich!!

Thanks for posting this one as well ;)

Up The Cats!!!!!


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: OldFatGuy on September 11, 2008, 12:57PM
Today's update:

Thursday, September 11, 2008
Wallingford CT

Hey guys,

Good morning from Beautiful Burlington Vermont.

Made the most of an opportunity to sleep in, hit the gym and after this......Starbucks!!

Well.......as I said Baltimore was everything we could have hoped for and more.

Full house, roared their approval and sang every word with us for 2 hours, and afterwards lined up in their hundreds to say hi!

I had played the Hippodrome a few years back with Movin' Out, so it was nice to get on that stage again.

Last night again was another old favourite theater of mine to play, The Chevrolet in Wallingford Connecticut.
2,500 people in and boy did they let us know what they thought about us!!

Huge reaction all the way through again, almost like a rock show in places ha ha.

The Parting Glass was a very special moment for all of us on stage last night as the sight of the crowd standing from half way through it almost choked us up.
One for the grandkids!

Again, we signed posters, programs etc and met many great folks afterwards.

So, tonight we have sold out show and we are all itching to get up there and do it all over again.

But first....Starbucks!!

talk to y'all soon.

Best always,

Darren.

Up the Cats!!


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: timi on September 15, 2008, 11:41AM
Latest Blog from Darren!!

Sunday September 14, 2008

Boston.

Greetings from Boston!

So great to be back in this fantastic city. I played here 3 times with Riverdance and twice with Movin Out and feel like its a home away from home.

The audiences at both shows today were unreal! Its amazing to us that people like the HK so much.

We had an extra special day though today as Charlie and Norma, Joe and Cathy, and Katie and her mom were all at the shows.

Charlie and Norma gave us the best hats we ever saw, leather with HK embroidered in them!! All we need now is a HK motorbike! They also had a huge banner than got a great reaction. Very cool people indeed. Joe and Cathy were awesome too, and made us very welcome in Boston.

Katie and her mom came tonight and by all accounts it was worth the wait!
They said they had a ball, as we did.....great audience!

HK fans are a cut above in my book.

Heres to another great show tomorrow, then on to Philly!

D.



Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: nbrock on September 16, 2008, 04:24PM
Thanks for posting this!  What a joy it was!  And what a shock that Darren would mention us just because we love them so much!  He's amazing! :)
Norma


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: OldFatGuy on September 16, 2008, 09:20PM
New update:

Philly and Pitsburgh

Hey everyone,

Two great shows in Philadelphia and Pitsburgh, and super crowds as well.

We had early morning tv in both cities so maybe there are links up somewhere online!

I think philly was the FOX channel, and the othere was Good Morning Pitsburgh.

We are ready to do a 7 hour journey to Grand Rapids for tomorrow nights show.

Hope you are all well.

later,

Darren.


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: OldFatGuy on September 23, 2008, 04:45AM
http://www.myspace.com/officialdarrenholden (http://www.myspace.com/officialdarrenholden)

New song and new pics!!

Hey guys and gals,

Finally there are some new pictures added to the space from the Holden vaults, plus a song that got away from the Roadwaorks album.

"Rockstar" was written with Bryan Steele and recorded in Atlanta in 2005.

Hope you like it.

Chicago was off the scale last night!! By far the most appreciative audience on the tour so far. They roared their lungs out and clapped all night long.

Enjoyed a very quiet day off in Knoxville TN.

Peace always,

Darren.


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: OldFatGuy on September 30, 2008, 04:09PM
Winding down in New Orleans.

Hey everyone,

As we near the close of our first headlining US tour, let me thank all of you who came out to support us! It really means a lot to know we have so many great fans/friends.

Having a blast in New Orleans at the moment, what a city!!

Florida was brilliant as always, and it was cool to swing by the old house in Orlando for a sec.

Tomorrow we head to Houston and Thursday its Dallas.

Can't wait!

Talk soon,

D.


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: OldFatGuy on October 08, 2008, 06:11AM
Back Home

Hi Everyone,

Made it back safe and sound, had a day off with the family on Sunday which was great, and then Monday we were the very first music act ever on RTE's brand new Seoige show, which went down really well.

Have a week off now and then Wed next we are back in rehearsals, and on the interview trail.

I believe this Sunday the Sunday Independant may have a piece on myself and Michelle in their Living section so check it out if you can.

Other than that, glad to be home, will catch up with you all soon,

Best always,

D.


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: timi on October 08, 2008, 05:09PM
Thanks Rich!!!


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: OldFatGuy on October 08, 2008, 05:28PM
Thanks Rich!!!
You're welcome, T!   ;D


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: OldFatGuy on October 16, 2008, 07:27AM
Ireland Tour Press!!!!

Hey everyone,

Just back from a trip to Tipperary today where we were on the Mary Beehan show on Tipp Mid-West Radio from 12- 2. Yes a 2 hour slot for the Kings!!
It was amazing and whle we were on over 200 texts and calls came to the studio.
We had a blast. Should be available online soon.

As we are all so crazed with preparations at the moment I will just give you a list of some upcoming press. Some or all of these you will hear online.
All are given in Irish time.


Oct 16th: Ricey Scully show- Midlands FM. 10-12PM
Oct 18th: Charlie MCGettiigan- Shannonside FM. 11-1PM
Oct 20th: Sue Nunn- KCLR FM. 11-1
Oct 21st: Geoff Harris-WLR FM. 4-7PM (JUST ME)
Oct 22nd: Fran Curry- Tipp FM. 11-1PM
Oct 25th: John Prendergast- Limerick Live 95 FM
Oct 27th: Padraig Quigley-Dundlak FM.9-10AM

Nov 1st: Aoife- Radio Kerry. 11-1pm
Nov 1st: Marc Roberts- Galway Bay FM. (JUST ME)
Nov 2nd: Pat Walshe- Connemara Comm Radio
Nov 5th: Tommy Makem- Midwest Radio. 11-1pm
Nov 8th: Seamus Hogan- Limerick 102 FM.

More to come probably. Things are gearing up nicely for us now, there are bilboards all across Ireland and we are ready!

Talk soon,

Thanks,

D.


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: OldFatGuy on October 18, 2008, 11:55AM
Tour is up and running

Hey everyone,

Donegal was incredible last night, and the perfect start to what will hopefully continue to be a loud tour!!

We were sold out,as we are tonight here in Cavan!

The people of Ireland have shown us that they are genuine in their support of the HK.

It means a lot to us.

Tomorrow its Dublin and the Gaiety Theater again.

Everything is in good shape!!

Talk soon,

D.


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: OldFatGuy on November 06, 2008, 09:53AM
Hello

Hey,

Enniscorthy, Galway were sensational audiences and yet again we are just blown away by this wave of appreciation for the HK.

Tomorrow we do Pat Kenny on RTE radio 1.

Tonight as I speak, we may get a spin on the Mike Harding show on BBC Radio 2.

Tomorrow night we take to the stage in the brand new state of the art Royal Theatre in Castlebar, then its Kilarney, Cork, Thurles and Waterford, which is another local gig for me with lots of family/friends attending.

Got to hang out with my good friend Marc Roberts after  last nights show, which is always a blast!  He is a big supporter of myslef/ HK and indeed a big star himself.

Catch up with you all soon,

Take care,

D


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: OldFatGuy on November 11, 2008, 04:54PM
Kings

Hey everyone,

Well......we filled the  Royal Theatre in Castlebar and the INEC in Kilarney on Friday for the second time this year, 1600 both nights  fans that were with us from song 1 right to the end. An amazing night, that really cemented the fact that we are Irelands group of 2008.

The Cork Opera house was a sellout from weeks ago and again, the crowd were chanting before we ever appeared onstage. Words can't convey how that made us feel, but again an incredible evening, and one that will remain with HK for a long time.

Thurles and Dungarvan were fantastic crowds and it was great to see so many family and friends in the audience.

 I have seen so many old friends show up on this tour, which has made it cool to re-connect again.

We get tomorrow off and after a long day today which saw us travel 6 hours from Dungarvan to Belfast for a UTV radio interview.

Then its Limerick University Concert hall on Thursday as we head into the final 5 shows on a most successful tour.

Saturday, we are appearing on TG 4  as we are special guests at the Ladies All Star awards at City West, Dublin.

Again, a long day in store as soundchecks and camera checks are order of the day.

Then Sunday, its our final Dublin show of the tour and indeed many faces involved with the show are going to be there, and a very busy post show is in store.

I will check in again very soon,

Take care,

D.


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: OldFatGuy on December 22, 2008, 05:42PM
Merry Christmas and much love for a happy 2009

Hi everyone,

The holidays season is in full swing, and santa is getting ready for the big journey yet again!

Let me take this opportunity to wish you all a very merry and peaceful Christmas and a wonderful and happy 2009.

You have all been great to me and the guys during the year and it never goes unnoticed.

Thanks a million for that!!

Here's to what is shaping up to be a mamoth new year for The High Kings, with lots of surprises along the way.

There will also be quite a few new songs of mine appearing also, both here and elsewhere during the year, so I am excited about that!

By the way, if any of you caught Oprah's 'Great Big Giveaway' show this year, you would have heard a lot of my material during the show.

Cheers Oprah!

 

Have a great Christmas everyone!!

Darren.


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: OldFatGuy on January 10, 2009, 09:39AM
Saturday, January 10, 2009

Brand New Song!

Hey there, hope 2009 is great so far!! I have uploaded a brand new Holden/Dunphy demo called "Send You All My Love". I have always felt that you will always connect with the one you love no matter where they are in the world, and that's what this is about. For some reason, each time I hear it, I think of the families separated by war, with their loved ones going off to battle and the sacrifices made. It was produced by the fantastic and talented Ewan Cowley, who did a fine job indeed. Hope you like it!


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: OldFatGuy on January 14, 2009, 05:32PM
New Dublin Dates

Hey you guys! Well.....you knew about them first! Sorry I couldn't let you know earlier, but hope to see loads of you back for 5 great shows! Lots going on, writing like a fiend and loving it! Connecting with so many old friends in the process, good fun. Saw a re-run of the Oprah show that had my songs on there the other day. Bit of a thrill that one. Who knew. Hey, I met a talked with Joe Esposito, Elvis' tour manager for the 1970's on Sunday night last and indeed got the pic. Turns out, Joe loves the High Kings and saw us on PBS. What a cool guy, and of course I was on cloud nine chatting to yet another member of the Memphis mafia. I will post the pic asap. Till then, Be safe and well. D


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: OldFatGuy on January 17, 2009, 09:28AM
Itunes download top 100 album and singles chart!

Hey everyone, Just had a heads up from Itunes that The High Kings album is in the top 100 album download chart worldwide this week, and also 7 tracks from the album are in the singles chart! Not only that......My debut album "Suddenly" has also appeared on top 100 chart more than 10 years after its release!! The second single from that album "Don't give up on us" has also entered the Top 100 singles download chart this week! Bizarre.....ya never know!


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: OldFatGuy on January 22, 2009, 07:47AM
New King on the Block!!!!!

So, I took my sister to the New Kids on the Block concert in Dublin last night. About halfway through the show, Donny Wahlberg talked about how this time round there a lot of guys in the house. The roving onstage camera then picked me out of the crowd and I eneded up on a 50 foot screen on stage!!!!! It took mortification to a whole new level. The more I tried to hide, the more it found me. I was up there for at least a minute whle the guys were telling me to get it on with my woman. My sister was shouting no no no thats my brother!! ha ha ha Great night though.


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: OldFatGuy on January 26, 2009, 12:40PM
2 songs uploaded

Hey folks,

After quite a few mails requesting something from "Movin Out'", I have uploaded "Shameless " "from 2005. I thinks its from a show in Kansas.
There are so many shows in storage that were recorded for various reasons, that it would be impossible to go through them all, so I hope that this is cool for now. I will get round to putting some more tracks up soon.

Also uploaded is the B-Side to my second Top 30 single back in the day."Don't Give Up on Us"
Its called "Livin' Without Your Love". Its very much a 90's pop sound so hope you like it.

Other than that....writing tons and lovin the creative surge at the moment!

Check back in soon.

Best,

D


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on February 25, 2009, 11:19PM
 Wednesday, February 04, 2009
   
Rehearsals and All Ireland Talent Show appearance this Sunday on RTE 1. 6.30PM!
Well,

We are well into rehearsals this week for the new dates in March, and so far things are going really well.

There are new songs, re-working's of old song's and album tracks, and more than a few surprises!!.

Let's just say we are busy.

Sunday, we will be appearing on The All Ireland talent show on RTE 1 Television.
The show will air at 6.30pm.

Hope you are all doing well.

All the best,

Darren,


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on February 25, 2009, 11:20PM
 Wednesday, February 18, 2009
   
God Help Us!
Hey.

Martin and I have been confirmed to appear on the infamous RTE 2 chat show "Podge and Rodge" on March 2nd.

For those of you who are not familiar with the show, it is hosted by 2 puppet brothers who live together in rural Ireland who try to verbally destroy each guest who comes on.

Are we scared? heck yeah!

God knows what might happen or what they dig up.

Look them up on You Tube and try not to be too shocked.

Oh and...please pray for us!

All the best,

Darren.


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on February 25, 2009, 11:21PM
 Sunday, February 22, 2009
   
Darren Holden Movin' Out Omaha


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kjKQBSrjuKU


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on February 25, 2009, 11:22PM
 Sunday, February 22, 2009
   
Darren Holden Movin' Out Oklahoma City


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lnxkbubUfFw


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on February 25, 2009, 11:23PM
 Sunday, February 22, 2009
   
Darren Holden Movin' Out Minneapolis_3


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yheM2z5ghKY


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on February 25, 2009, 11:24PM
 Sunday, February 22, 2009
   
Darren Holden Movin' Out St Louis


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5KK68gFnhBE


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on February 25, 2009, 11:25PM
 Sunday, February 22, 2009
   
Darren Holden Movin' Out Kansas City_2


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fQZvxwgYhow


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on February 25, 2009, 11:26PM
 Sunday, February 22, 2009
   
Darren Holden Movin' Out Minneapolis_2


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RadhJy7Cqzg


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on March 08, 2009, 11:12PM
 Thursday, March 05, 2009
   
Aras on Uactarain appearance!!
Hey all,

Tomorrow night we have the pleasure of a private performance for our President Mary Mcalese at her house.

It is quite an honour and we are thrilled and excited!!

Rehearsals are full steam ahead every day and we are growing more confident with each one.

martin and I survived Ballydung manor and indeed were endorsed by the grusome twosome at the end!!! A Rare feat!

Thats it for now.

Best,


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on March 08, 2009, 11:12PM
 Saturday, March 07, 2009
   
Amazing Night
Hi all,

Well, last night was just fantastic and quite the honour.

We were met at The Presidents residence and escorted through to a waiting room and briefed on the event and what we were to do. It was the Human Rights Comission Dinner with 60 guest from all over the world.

After being announced to the room we launched into Jimmy Murphy which recieved a great reaction.
We introduced ourselves , and I spoke of the honour of being asked to perform at such an event, before introducing a brand new song "The 23rd of June".

Again, big reaction, after which the President stood up and said how wonderful we were!

After pic's, it was through to an amazing dining room for drinks and a quick chat.

Having performed at the White House, it was very special to sing in Ireland's First Residence.

We were also looked after incredibly well.

Super evening.


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: OldFatGuy on March 11, 2009, 01:31PM
Updates

Hi there,

Today we did a photo shoot with a difference at a warehouse here in Dublin.

We will feauture in this Sunday's "Sunday Independant" newspaper as the High King's get scrubbed up in designer suits courtesy of Louis Copeland.

We had a blast doing the shoot and hope that this comes across.

On St Paddy's day (Tuesday) we will once agin be in the hot seat for The "Pat Kenny Show" on RTE Radio 1. There should be a bit of craic and indeed a few songs as well.

Hope you are all doing well, and please take care,

Best,

Darren.


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: OldFatGuy on March 18, 2009, 05:25PM
Busy Busy Busy

Hey all,

Well, we had a great Paddy's day with the RTE radio 1 interview getting a huge reaction and the signing at Celtic Note being so successful too.

There was even time to take it the unnaturally gorgeous weather that we are having at the moment! Global warming eh!

Tomorrow, most of the Irish national newspapers should have the pic's of Pat Kenny presenting us with the Platinum Disc's at RTE.

Sorry, can't be more specific.

There are more new dates on the schedule for this summer, including another appearance at my favourite one from the last tour ,the INEC.

Ok, think thats it for now.

All the best,

D


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on March 21, 2009, 11:30PM
    
Very Sad News

Please spare a thought this morning for the family of Natasha Richardson , who sadly passed away in New York last night.
She is married to our beloved actor Liam Neeson, who along with he 2 sons, is said to be completely devastated.

Life is way too short!!


She was a beacon on Broadway and film and will be sadly missed from the entertainment world.


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: OldFatGuy on March 22, 2009, 03:18PM
National Interview and new song

Hey there,

I hooked up with major rock critic John Meagher from "The Independant" newspaper on Thursday last for an in depth interview that will run this Tuesday or Wednesday.
This was part 2 of an interview I did with John in 2003 when he did another 2 page spread on my return to Broadway to play Mr Joel, and my career up to that point.
Johns a great lad with a huge appreciation of music and the arts and i am looking forward to seeing how it turns out.

After the incredible and heart stopping victory for Ireland in the Six Nations Rugby championship yesterday, our mentor Shay Healy asked me to write something to commemorate the achievement. Two hours later I had the finished product and hopefully we will get into the studio early this week to lay it down.

Can't believe the Olympia shows are days away!!

Take care,

D


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: OldFatGuy on March 31, 2009, 02:51PM
Dublin Concerts!
Hey everyone,

Well, it's been a few days since we wrapped up the Olympia dates, and I can say that I am very happy with the response to the new High Kings Show.

Armed with just ourselves and I guess...13 instruments, we rocked Dublin for 5 memorable nights, and changed the look and sound of this group along the way.

Any nagging doubts that might have been lingering, were quickly dispelled as each audience got behind us immediately and roared their approval of the new show.

Each one of us had our own individual highlights, but for me, it was actually walking onstage and playing guitar, bass guitar, Mandolin, and accordian! hah.....anythings possible.

This group can now do anything I believe, and I hope we will.

6 weeks of intense rehearsal paid off in abundance, and this week we can look back and quitely think...yeah!

To those fans who travelled from far and wide to be there......thank you!

Particularly Caz, Timi, Thomas and Karen.

Chat soon,

D


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on April 15, 2009, 09:30PM
 Thursday, April 09, 2009
   
Clare FM Interview Tomorrow morning Friday 10th April.
Hey all,

Finbarr and myself will be on Clare Fm tomorrow morning for an interview with local DJ Conn.

We are all set for our concert on Easter Monday at the Abbey Hotel in Donegal.

Last time we played there we sold out, and this time is no different!

Have a great Easter weekend and we'll talk soon.

D


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on April 15, 2009, 09:31PM
 Sunday, April 12, 2009
   
Happy Easter Everyone!
Here's wishing you all a very Happy and safe Easter.

We are about to set off for Donegal and tomorrows show up there. Its a bit of a drive so, what a way to spend a sunny day!!!!

Also, RTE 1 , our national TV station, is repeating the "Live in Dublin" concert at 3.45pm today.

All the best,

D


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on April 15, 2009, 09:32PM
 Monday, April 13, 2009
   
Donegal Rocks!

That about says it all!
Great crowd, great show, lots of fun.

Later,

D.


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on April 15, 2009, 09:32PM
 Tuesday, April 14, 2009
   
National TV Appearance.
Hey,

The HK will appear on Glor Tire on TG4 tomorrow night at 8.30pm (I think)

This is our national Irish language station and our first appearance on there.

TG4.com will have precise airtime details.

Cheers,

D


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on April 19, 2009, 11:04PM
 Friday, April 17, 2009
   
Ennis.
THROUGH THE ROOF!!!!

Can't add to this, best crowd in yonks!

All the best,

D


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on April 23, 2009, 09:36PM
 Tuesday, April 21, 2009
   
Castlebar

Full house, great theatre, good vibes, and a crazy crowd that sang along from start to finish.

Ennis was my favourite show, up until this!!

Peace,

D.


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: OldFatGuy on May 10, 2009, 10:54AM
Sunday, May 10, 2009
   
INEC

Hey everyone.

There is something very special about the INEC in Kilarney, that brings out the best shows in us.

Last night for the 3rd time, we sold out in one of Irelands best venues, and it looks like we are back soon!!

Furthermore (ho ho) We are the only Irish and International act that has achieved this in 2009.

When you have 3 year old kids and pensioners singing in one voice, you kinda feel like you are doing ok.

I am off on a writing session in a bit, so I will let you know how that works out, but I am very excited.

All the best,

D


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on June 03, 2009, 09:12PM
 Monday, May 18, 2009
   
Late Late Show.
Hey everyone,


The High Kings have been confirmed to appear on the final Late late Show of the season on May 29th @9.30pm.


Not only is it the final show of the season, but the final show that Pat Kenny presents after 10 years in the hot seat.

Pat has been a huge supporter of ours since the formation of the group, and of mine since the mid 90's, so he will be sorely missed.


However, the man taking over from him is none other that our good friend Ryan Tubridy!


So who knows, maybe we will make it back again next season.


There are some dates coming up including a special appearance at St Michaels school in Baldoyle this coming Friday.


Also, we will be on WLR FM tomorrow evening at 6pm.


Check back in later with more info.


Thanks as always for the continued support.


D


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on June 23, 2009, 11:13PM
 Wednesday, June 17, 2009
   
Mooncoin and Carrick On Suir.

Hello there.

After a nice stroll around Galway this afternoon, I am finally sitting down and catching up online.

On Sunday morning I drove home to sunny Mooncoin where I officially opened the 10 K road race by cutting the ribbon and singing a few songs with some local musicians. It was fantastic to be home among my own family and people again and it was a bit emotional to be spoken about so glowingly by the organizers of the event. They even presented me with a huge bunch of flower's!! hah. My mum has them now.

Carrick on Suir was the town for Monday and Tuesday nights show's at the Clancy Festival.

Both nights were sold out and the athmosphere was amazing. Lots of old friends from Mooncoin again turned up as did the local's from Carrick  to cheer on Finbarr.

We had a blast on these shows and indeed the fun we had onstage was evident to the audience who joined in  with the craic.

I have yet to see the Optilase TV ad on the telly, but everyone else has seen it, including the Connemara FM DJ Mary Rowe who I did an interview with this morning.

It has been broadcast on TV3, Sky 1, Channel 4 and E4. Also has been seen in The Canary Islands. wow!

Tomorrow morning we are on Galway Bay FM at 11am in advance of our show at The Town Hall tomorrow night which has been confirmed a sell-out.

Hope to check in again soon, and hope you are all well.

Now it's time to head out for a bit to celebrate Brian's birthday. Its a big one!!

Talk soon,

D


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on June 23, 2009, 11:14PM
 Friday, June 19, 2009
   
Town Hall Galway.

Hey everyone.

I 'll make this short.

The craziest crowd we have had all year!

Amazing.

D


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on June 23, 2009, 11:14PM
 Sunday, June 21, 2009
   
Murphy's Law

So,

Every Tom, Dick and Harry has seen my Optilase Laser Eye Clinic ad on TV except me!

Last night I learned that it is running on MTV, Channel 4, E4 and all SKY TV channels!

Some funny stuff has been happening too.

I was at Dundrum Town Centre (mall) in Dublin on Friday, when two elderly ladies walked up to me and said "Aren't you the guy from the Specsavers Ad?!!!!

Can't win 'em all.

Hope you are all well.

D



Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on July 05, 2009, 11:07PM
 Thursday, June 25, 2009
   
Speechless

Hi everyone,

Word's usually don't fail me.

I am not ashamed to say I am utterly gutted at the news of the passing of both Farrah Fawcett and now Michael Jackson.

Farrah was my first girlfriend (not really), and I actually hoped against hope that she might pull through and be cured. Sadly not to be. At least Heaven has a new angel.

Michael Jackson.

I actually can't find the words.

The world is a very different place now.

May God bless and rest them both.

They deserve it.

Darren.


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on July 05, 2009, 11:07PM
 Sunday, June 28, 2009
   
Wow. Tyrone.

Whatever I said about loud audiences up to now, forget it.

Omagh almost deafened us, and that was before we played a note!

Then it was just pure mayhem till the last song and beyond.

They screamed, sang, stood, stomped, clapped, roared and just made us feel so welcome.

We are due to start rehearsals for the new album next week, so excited about that.

I will keep you up to date as we motor along.

All the best,

D


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: OldFatGuy on July 18, 2009, 08:48AM
New Old song uploaded and reality show disappointment

Hi everyone.

Well, the new HK album is heading into its second week and hopefully it will be as productive as last week.

There are more than a few surprises going to be on there. Believe me, there are.

More info as we proceed.

I have uploaded  a new old track from the Rhythm of the dance musical, where I was lead vocalist, from 1999 which toured Europe,UK and Scandanavia for 11 months.

Its called "The Crooked Road" and is a very old fashioned Irish song, written for me by a Carlow man, Jackie Murphy. Hope you like it.

Finally, I am disapointed to say, that Ireland's national TV station RTE, invited me to be part of their new reality show "Celebrity Boxing" , airing in August.  I was initially delighted, as this is certain to bring in close to a million viewers per show, and I was guaranteed 4 shows at least.

However, The High Kings have a show in West Cork on August 20th, which clashed with the production, so I am afraid I won't be taking part.  Maybe next time.

Lots of other cool stuff happening, but until they are done deals, I will leave it at that.

Hope you are all well.

Take care,

D

http://blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendId=134975287&blogId=499756022 (http://blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendId=134975287&blogId=499756022)


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: OldFatGuy on July 19, 2009, 09:12PM
Checking in with the latest.

Hey there,

Just checking in with the latest goss.

Friday night last we played to our biggest concert audience yet when over 8,000 people filled The park in New Ross, Co Wexford and sang along for 2 hours in the beautiful summer evening.
Many old friends turned out from Kilkenny which made it extra special for me.

This Thursday we travel to Switzerland where we perform with Sharon Shannon, The Wolfe Tones and the Dubliners in Basel.  Its been about 10 years since i last performed there so I am looking forward to the return trip! Should be a blast.

The new album is slowly taking shape with 3 songs now almost in the can, and a very different sound/vibe from the first album.

MTV and Comedy Central are rotating the Optilase ad daily which is kinda nuts!

I have learned of a new DH fansite thats been set up in China by a fan. Wow!

Those of you Stateside who watch "Dr 90210 and Oprah" will be hearing quite a lot of my material in upcoming shows and re-runs this year, which again is very nice to know.

There is other amazing stuff happening at the moment, including one exceptional episode which I may talk about soon or sometime down the line.

I may upload some new track soon also, so watch this space.

Have a good one.

Peace,

Darren.

http://blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendId=134975287&blogId=501099783 (http://blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendId=134975287&blogId=501099783)


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: OldFatGuy on July 22, 2009, 03:32PM
Newsflash

Hey all,


Due to circumstances beyond our control, we are now not performing in Switzerland this weekend.

However, we will be appearing on The Mirriam O Callaghan  Show on RTE1 television this Saturday night at 9.30pm.

Cheers,

Darren.


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on August 25, 2009, 08:59PM
 Monday, August 03, 2009
   
What a weekend!

Hi everyone,

First of all, I need to say a massive THANKS to all the fans who voted for us in the IMA's.
We are delighted that we scooped both awards and recieved such a thunderous applause. It really was fantastic.
To accept the awards on behalf of HK was again another personal highlight in a year of many.
Sharing the stage with Sharon Shannon, Moving Hearts, Frankie Gavin etc was amazing and inspiring equally.

Killarney last night was as usual a huge show, with a rip roaring crowd and atmosphere!!

I had so many people there from my home village, Mooncoin, that I lost track!!

To out wonderful fans/friends who travelled from overseas to be with us, I would just like to say, you are all amazing folks who make it worthwhile for us to do what we do.
Thanks to infinity!! For everything.

Well, back to the studio tomorrow, where we will carry on working on the new album.
I will keep you updated as often as possible.

'Till next time,

Take care, God bless,

Darren.


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on August 25, 2009, 08:59PM
 Tuesday, August 18, 2009
   
Amazing You Tube News.

Fantasic news this morning!!

You Tube statistics are in and as of today I am.........


...... the 30th most subscribed musician this week GLOBAL!


#9 - Most Subscribed (This Week) - Ireland
#1 - Most Subscribed (This Week) - Musicians - Ireland
#30 - Most Subscribed (This Week) - Musicians - Global
#76 - Most Subscribed (This Month) - Ireland
#3 - Most Subscribed (This Month) - Musicians - Ireland
#29 - Most Viewed (This Week) - Musicians - Ireland

I am delighted and would like to send huge THANKS to  everyone who checked out the video's.

Have a great day!

Darren



Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on August 25, 2009, 09:00PM
 Friday, August 21, 2009
   
SUPER NEWS.

Hey everyone,

Just back from an astoundingly great gig in Timoleage, West Cork last night.

What a crowd. 700 strong, in a marquee, and going crazy for the whole show.

One of the best shows we have done to date for sure.

Back to the studio on Monday to continue work on the new album.

I am finally able to tell you all about something very exciting to me.

My good friend Marc Roberts and I wrote a little gem in Febuary called "THE PROMISE"
and it is finally about to go on release. Marc is one of the good guys and deserves all the success that comes his way.

I am including the press release tht has gone to radio stations around the country.

Thanks and have a great weekend.

Darren.





MARC ROBERTS

 

RELEASES HIS EAGERLY AWAITED NEW SINGLE

 

“THE PROMISE”

The ever popular Marc Roberts is back with his eagerly awaited new single “The Promise”, which he co-wrote with Darren Holden (High Kings).   It tells the story of Irish people being lured to “the promised land”.  They go with the promise of a better life & with the promise that one day they will return.  Sadly, all too often that promise is broken.  As in the past, not everyone managed to get work & would spend most of their time reminiscing about home.  This poignant song is at present topical because of the great efforts being made in America to give the “forgotten Irish” an identity.  This anthemic production accompanied by Marc’s astounding ability to relate a heartfelt story, is sure to capture the hearts of many!   “The Promise” is a song that displays the depth of Marc Roberts as a songwriter and there is no doubt it will become a firm favourite with his ever growing fan base.

 

“The Promise” will be available for download on iTunes from  Friday, 18th September 2009.

 

Marc Roberts’ fourth studio album is due for release later in the Autumn.  It’s a collection of 13 songs including some self-penned, co-writes with Ben Mills (X-Factor finalist), Darren Holden (High Kings) & Charlie McGettigan & some covers.

Marc came to world attention when he represented Ireland in the 1997 Eurovision song contest, where he came a credible 2nd with “Mysterious woman”. He released his debut self titled album that year.  Two more albums followed“Meet me half way” & “Once in your life”. His fourth studio album titled “The promise” is due for release later in the autumn.

 Marc has firmly established himself as a songwriter & has found himself both lyrically & melodically.

The latest single from Marc Roberts, “The Promise” will be available for download on iTunes from  Friday, 18th September 2009.


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on August 25, 2009, 09:01PM
 Tuesday, August 25, 2009
   
Arthur's Day

Hey all,

Very exciting news.........

The High Kings have been confirmed to join some of the world's biggest music act's to celebrate the 250th birthday of "Guinness"  and indeed celebrate the great vision of one Arthur Guinness!!

This will be a global celebration on September 24th and more details can be found at www2.guinness.com
(I hope)

We are thrilled to be involved in such a massive worldwide party to celebrate all that is great about Ireland!

Slainte,

DH.


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on September 05, 2009, 11:04PM
 Saturday, August 29, 2009
   
Great to be home.


Hi all,

I was invited by the Kilkenny Hurling County Board to make an appearance and perform a few songs at the annual fundraiser last night in Langtons Hotel, in the city.
What an amazing night. Huge crowd who were really into it, and some of Kilkenny's finest hurlers of the past, including our current manager Brian Cody.

The event was broadcast on KCLR FM which covers 5 counties, and reaction has been fantastic, Michelle and I were interviewed which was fun, and I believe former chairman of the board Ned Quinn spoke on air about my hurling days! Ahh the memories.

Great event and a cool excuse to go back home.

Chat soon,

D


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on September 27, 2009, 11:41PM
 Tuesday, September 08, 2009
   
Latest HK News and "Up the Cats"!

Hi everyone,

Recording on the new High Kings album wrapped today, and I think its gonna be well received indeed.

Its been a long road to get it where its at, and our gratitude goes to our super producer Mark Murphy and musical maestro Ewan Cowley who were with us all the way!

We had great fun in the studio every day and take away great memories of the sessions.

The final song selection has yet to be decided so I can't give any info on that, but hope to soon.

Finally, has it really been a year since my beloved Kilkenny senior hurling team won the 3 in a row?!
It sure has and what a way to mark that occasion that by winning an unprecedented "4 in a row" on Sunday last!!  What a team, what a game, what an atmosphere. Incredible.

My hat is perpetually tipped to the great men who make up the squad and management! and I thank them for the pride they instill in Kilkenny people all over the world.

Chat soon,

Darren.



Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on September 27, 2009, 11:42PM
 Thursday, September 10, 2009
   
Arthur's Day details.

Hi Everyone

The High Kings will be performing gigs at two venues in Dublin as part of the Guinness 250 Arthur's Day celebrations on 24th September.

We will be performing at O'Donaghues in Merrion Row off of Baggot St with Sharon Shannon and also at the famous Brazen Head on Lower Bridge St. I am not aware of the times of the gigs, but the following links to their respective websites and phone numbers may help you if you are in Dublin and would like to attend.

O'Donaghues Website

+ 353 1660 7194



The Brazen Head Website

+353 1677 9549


The High Kings have now been added to the list of artists performing at the pub venues. You can see the list of artists and venues, with maps and venue details, on the following link.

Guinness Website - Arthurs Day gig details


Slainte!


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on September 27, 2009, 11:42PM
 Tuesday, September 15, 2009
   
Patrick Swayze.

Hey everyone.

Just logging on quickly as I am up to 90 this week.

Couldn't let the passing of Patrick Swayze go without paying a little tribute to him.

Again, like Farrah Fawcett, Michael Jackson, and John Hughes, the world of entertainment that some of us grew up with, has lost yet another huge star.

I remember Swayze in "The Outsiders", the movie that  launched the "Brat Pack", which included Tom Cruise and Rob Lowe among others.

Like everyone else though, I was blown away by his  phenomenal performance in "Dirty Dancing", and  watched that movie a million times with my buddies, convincing ourselves that thats how you got the girl!
He has left us such great memories, including "Roadhouse" and "Point Break".

He fought his illness with strength and courage and massive positivity, and held on as long as he could. My prayers and wishes go to his wife Lisa and family.

My "Swayze" claim to fame came in September 2004, when we opened "Movin' Out" at The Pantages theater in Los Angeles.

Patrick had just finished starring in "Chicago" there the previous night, and I got his dressing room!   I called everyone I knew to tell them!
 I know, its sad, but I just thought about it today, after hearing of his very sad passing
.
I hope he has hooked up already with Jacko, and they are planning the best dance show ever seen in Heaven!

My he rest in peace.

D.





Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on September 27, 2009, 11:43PM
 Sunday, September 20, 2009
   
High Kings to perform our Anthem at International Boxing match!

Hey guy's,

Logging on to tell you that that " The High Kings" have been confirmed to perform our National Anthem before the major International Bernard Dunne boxing match, next Saturday evening at Dublin's O2 Arena.

The fight will be televised on RTE I believe and indeed will show up internationally too!

All 15,000 seats for the fight have been sold, so an incredible atmosphere is guaranteed.

More interesting news just in, but I will tell ya about it in the coming days.

Best wishes,

Darren.


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on September 27, 2009, 11:43PM
 Friday, September 25, 2009
   
Arthurs Day Shenanigans.

Hey there.

Well, Arthur's Day was as brilliant as everyone had hoped for, with huge crowds turning out for both our gigs in Dublin.

We arrived at "The Brazen Head" pub to find that Tom Jones...yes that Tom Jones was performing before us. Now thats special!! We said a very quick hello afterwards and he was very gracious. What a star in the true sense of the word.

The show was off the scale with the crowd singing along to every song and tons of guinness everywhere!

After the show, we were whisked to O'Donahues pub on Baggott St, home of "The Dubliners" for an incredibly charged hour long set which had the heaving crowd screaming along and sweating even harder than us! Super stuff and an unbelievable reaction!

Tomorrow night we step into the ring in front of 15,000 boxing fan's at Dublin's O2 Arena to sing our National Anthem. We can only imaging what the atmosphere will be like!!

Another amazing night for HK in a year full of them.

Thanks to all of you for helping us achieve so much in such a short time.

We hope there is more to come.

I am off to Peru on Sunday for the Autism Awareness fundraising mountain trek.

If its possible, please donate whatever you can to the cause by reading my last bulletin and clicking on the link.
Also, forward the link to as many people as you can.

Talk to you all when I return home.

Love,

Darren.


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on October 23, 2009, 09:55PM
 Monday, October 12, 2009
   
Stephen Gately

Hi guys.

Once again we have been cruelly reminded of the abrupt nature of life.

Early yesterday morning, we awoke to the terrible news of the tragic passing of Stephen Gately.

All I can say at this time, is that anyone who knew him personally and professionally are hurting right now.  I can't imagine how his family and Andy are feeling.

I have some fantastic memories of the great tours  I did with Boyzone in the mid 90's.

Stephen was always a barrel of laughs and a very warm, caring and considerate guy.

We would all sit around and sing old Motown songs 'till the early hours and swap jokes.

His hero was Michael Jackson, and he was very upset by 'his passing in June.

I hope they do a few duet's up there now.

Only last week I spoke to the guys about their future plans and dreams for the future.

How quickly it can all change.

I wish his family  and Andy strength, courage and healing during this awful time.

To the boyz.......You did it all guys and each of your dreams came true ten fold.

Remember the great times, as there were many, and in time your hearts will show you how to proceed.

You will be missed always Stephen.


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on November 05, 2009, 10:49PM
 Thursday, November 05, 2009
   
Wendy's World- New/Old Demo

Hey everyone.

Sorry I haven't blogged in a while but I am getting back to normal now, and will be here quite a bit.

I was recently sent a demo of a song called "Wendy's World" that I wrote a few years back with grammy winning Country music legend Rodney Crowell.

This demo features Rodney on accoustic guitar and myself on vocals and synth.

Its a song that has sat around for a while, but is now getting some interest from a few folks who may want to record it soon.

Let me know what you think.

There are more unearthed tracks coming soon. These are from the "Capitol Records" Nashville vaults. Thats another story!!

Tell you about it soon.

Thanks for all the good wishes and thoughts that you all sent out recently.
It was a tough time for a lot of people and really nailed home the fact that life really is too short.

God Bless and thanks.

Darren.


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on November 14, 2009, 12:20AM
 Saturday, November 07, 2009
   
Very exciting news!!!!

Hey everyone,

Hope this find's you all well and enjoying your Saturday.

Thanks so much for the fantastic response to "Wendys World" and "Suddenly".
I had no idea they would be so warmly recieved. Very cool

Some very exciting news.

Rockband video games are launching their brand new game in time for the Christmas market and I am thrilled to announce that I will have 3 songs from my Roadworks album included in it!

I would like to say a huge thank you to Donna Britton of "Shadow Mountain " Publishing for being instrumental in making this happen.
Their will be more news shortly too regarding yet another world famous video game manafacturer, that has also included my music in their forthcoming game!
However, I will save that until everything is in order and ready for lift off.

While things are quiet on The High Kings front right now, its the complete opposite for me. Just the way I love it.
Last night Michelle and I joined my good friends, Keith Duffy, Brian Kennedy, Rosanna Davison, Jenny Lee Masterson and a host of others to celebrate the official opening of the brand new "Bodybyrne" exclusive gym in Dublin. It was an amazing night with everyone enjoying each others company and a great industry buzz going on. Lillies as always, was hopping at the end of the night and still ringing in my ears today!
Huge congrats to Paul Byrne on a job well done.
I  will blog again soon with an official video from the Rockband game advertisement that will run shortly.

Best wishes to you all.

Darren.




Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: OldFatGuy on November 24, 2009, 04:21PM
 East Coast Times article accounting Darren's Trek to Peru.
Review of our Peru trek written for East Coast Times by my fellow trekker and friend Alan Earls.

D

It isn't the mountains ahead to climb that wear you out; it's the pebble in your shoe."

Muhammed Ali


As I headed to Dublin Airport, I was excited, anxious, nervous and oblivious to what lay ahead of me! I walked up to check in, and there in front of me, was a group of 30 strong strangers. I wasn’t sure, if these people, who I would be spending the next week with, were friendly or good humoured or if indeed I would ever see them again after this trip…I need not have been worried. This wonderful group of volunteers have become my closest friends, and none of us will ever forget our Trek in Peru. After the initial meet and greet, we hopped on a plane and flew to Peru, via Amsterdam, where lo and behold we met Keith Duffy and Mikey Graham from Boyzone and Darren Holden from The   High Kings fame. If any of us were to be star struck, it didn’t last for long. These guys are the most down to earth lads, with no airs and graces and they joined in the buzz of getting to know each other, as we all did. We had plenty of time as your typical scenario of late flights, lost luggage and hanging around the airport for hours on end was certainly in full force on this trip. My own luggage was left behind in conveyor belt heck, but was eventually reunited with me, two days late! This 12 hour flight was the longest I’ve ever been on a plane, and boy was it a great time to get to know my fellow trekkers. Everyone was in great form, all eagerly wanting to know everything about each other. The buzz was contagious, despite the long haul. We were eager to get going and the atmosphere was electric, I’m surprised all that energy didn’t cause a malfunction with the control panel on board!


We landed in Peru and went straight to our hotel in Lima. That night we settled into getting to know each other more, over dinner, but no partying or anything like that, as we had an early start the following morning, where we headed to airport again then got a flight to Cusco. When we stepped off the plane here, the heat met us like a wall! Boy it was hot! We did a little sight-seeing in the few hours we had before heading onto the trek, around this beautiful city. There is a fabulous Cathedral here; you really have to see it to believe it! This Cathedral of Cusco is jam packed with gold and silver adorned alters, hand crafted wooden furniture, made from rich mahogany toned wood, the finest leather upholstery and art including canvasses and sculptures worth over 2,000,000 million dollars! It was fantastic. One of the cathedral’s paintings really reflected the Peruvian way of life after it was occupied by the Spanish. The Spanish, back in the day, were in conspiracy with the Roman Catholic Church and made every attempt to keep the native people in line by the use of religion. One attempt that is shown in the Cathedral is a painting of "The Last Supper" by Marcos Zapata. It shows Christ and the Apostles about to dine on guinea-pig, washed down with a glass of chicha! Also to note in this painting was Judas depicted with his back turned to Jesus, holding a bag of silver. Not sure what that meant, it was a very peculiar piece of art altogether! Over time the Peruvian’s rebelled in a way, and adapted a lot of their religious artefacts to incorporate their own beliefs, like carving Black Leather Jesus statues using the leather from the native alpaca animal. So now, a little history lesson, my goodness this place is steeped in history. And from the tour of the Cathedral that is obviously soaked in wealth to see then a short distance away shanty towns in the hills where the extreme poverty was quite evident. It was heart breaking to see parts of this beautiful country living in third world conditions. Not enough attention is brought to these peoples needs. When we think third world we immediately relate to Africa. It is so very sad, to see children from the age of 5 upwards selling chewing gum for a few coins. I would hate to see my kids who are the same age having to sell on the streets for food. It certainly is an eye opener to witness this way of life, we live in luxury compared to these people.


Day 1: Up at dawn to catch a bus! Today we begin our trek. We arrived to our first point, a small little village, and a school. That was it, no shops or restaurants, just a school. As poor as these people are, they value their kid’s education very much, I wasn’t expecting that. The children where playing football, and as knackered as we were still from the travelling and the heat adjustment!! The energy was on over drive, so we joined in. We had great craic with the kids, and when they were finished fleecing us at football, they tried to fleece us from our money by selling all sorts to us! They are quite the hagglers but in such a good humoured way. I’m a born salesman, so I know a good pitch when I hear one and can out bargain anyone, or so I thought! I bought loads of bubblegum and sweets I did not need that day, and every other day for that matter!


The whole group on day 1 were filled with enthusiasm and vigour. Our goal today was to climb a mere 3500 feet and 10 kilometres, easy peasy! Ya right! When I say this was like climbing the steepest set of stairs you could ever climb, the whole way, without a single flat piece of land to catch our breath, or to ease up on the legs, I’m not exaggerating. This was not what I was expecting. Sure, I knew we were climbing a mountain, but I just did not expect it to be this steep! We had to traverse all the way, the whole 3500 feet of it, and on each side of us there was thousands of feet - to fall! One slip and you were gone, honestly I’m not messin’. This was dangerous stuff. If that wasn’t bad enough for the first day, we had the ordeal of having to adjust to the altitude to contend with. I had heard of how thin the altitude gets, and this can lead to severe problems, in some cases life threatening problems, but I’m a tough man, sure I can handle anything, right? WRONG! My lungs did not like this thin air! But it was the first day, so the naivety kinda took over, and I pretended not to notice the sheer scale of what I had volunteered for! And me being the total alpha male dummy I am, I decided to go on the harder trek. Yes we had an option, and easier version or the thigh breaking, foot bruising version. And because I wanted to see the waterfall on the Iron-Man, 3 times Olympic champion trek, I went on that one! It was worth it though. This waterfall was breathtakingly beautiful, a magical scene where you would expect to see some goddess swimming in the crystal blue stream! Instead, my fellow trekkers gathered around, all sweating and panting and gasping for air as we took snapshot after snapshot. A great sense of achievement was felt by all of us, and this was only Day 1. However my sense of euphoria did not help, as we descended to base camp and at 17.30 that evening I collapsed from exhaustion into my tent. I was dehydrated and my appetite was gone. I passed on the dinner and slept more or less until the next morning, oblivious to the chronic drop in temperature. It got to minus 10 that night!


Day 2: 07.00 am, Brekkie first, then climb a mountain! Today our target would be 10500 feet above sea level! Easy peesie? No way, that attitude was firmly given the heave-ho! Day 2 is officially known as the hardest day. And if yesterday was a shock to the system, this day almost killed it! The ascent was even steeper, like that was even possible! And the air, well, what air?! You know the craziest thing of all, even though this trek, is by far one of the most gruelling experiences any of the group will ever face, the spirit of camaraderie, the support we gave each other, it’s like we’d known each other our entire lives, so great and quickly formed was our bond. And to think we were total strangers a couple of days ago, is something I will take with me to the grave. Grim thought as I traversed and climbed and scrambled my way upwards and upwards, always upwards!! No flat land AT ALL and a death fall on either side!! As I went higher and higher, and the heat seemed to enter my body and expand into every cell and suck the air out as it did, I thought my lungs would explode. I could not breathe and was in real trouble. I fell behind the rest of the group and the intensity of gasping for air, finally got too much. I gave up! I sat on a rock and desperately tried to get a signal on my mobile, so I could text my wife, and get some re-assurance, and support. I was knackered! Then, one of the gang, Ger and absolute Legend, turned to see the state I was in, and he, rescued me in a way. I told him I could not go on. I was only 30 meters from the top, and he took hold of me and said ‘Come on Alan, we’ll do it together one step at a time’. And that’s what we did, 5 steps then rest, another five then rest, then another 5, and so it continued all the way for the 30 meters and when I got to the top, the whole place erupted with clapping and cheers, with lots of hugs and slaps on the back to follow. It was probably the most humbling unique experience I will ever face and I cried as did the others. There was a monument made up of flat stones, on the path and I took two stones that were loose on the ground and placed them onto the monument. One for my daughter and one for my son. This trip, this trek I was on, was truly the most magical experience I have ever had and I urge anyone to give it a go. The world and its troubles seemed so insignificant on that mountain top that day. And I don’t mean that in a flippant way, it’s just when you accomplish a goal, like this, which you never thought in a million years you’d ever achieve, you get a sense of clarity and peace. I think everyone could do with a trek up that mountain! Some world leaders certainly could! Day Two was also the day part of our group broke the world record by 15 minutes for the quickest team to the top! Keith, Paul, Jenny-Lee, (not me) Annika, Rico, Chris, John and of course the Legend Ger are record breakers now and I am so incredibly proud of them! Even with their titles of fame, I have never met a more down to earth group, who would do anything for you. They roughed it like the rest of us! We arrived back to Base Camp by 12 noon. Yes we climbed 7000 feet to 10500 in 5 hours and back again, no wonder I practically passed out! So what do you do, in the middle of nowhere, for hours on end, while you’re waiting for dinner? Have a sing song around the camp, of course we weren’t allowed to light a fire of course, and it was icy cold, courtesy of the wonderful Darren Holden of The High Kings!! The atmosphere was relaxed, chilled and did I mention we were having a sing song with Darren!! He played to us as if he was performing in front of a sell out tour at the O2 Arena, it was priceless, never to be forgotten!! Anyone who wants to relive this, head to Youtube and you can see for yourselves!


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: OldFatGuy on November 24, 2009, 04:22PM
Day 3: Oh for a long lie in, but no, up at 07.00am to begin another hike for 4500 feet, the goal today 14500ft, above sea level!!  Now when you think of it, the highest point of the Eifel tower is roughly 1069 ft and if you don’t take the lift, that’s one heck of a climb. Well take that, quadruple it over and over, and then add a 14500 foot drop on each side, in the sweltering heat and ever decreasing air, sounds like a lazy day to me! Not! Today was by no means uneventful, not that any day on this trek was uneventful. Sarah, one of the girls in the group, really became very ill, very quickly. The altitude sickness took over at an alarming rate and suddenly it became very dangerous for her. Our brilliant guides, the Sherpa’s, took control of the situation immediately and literally grabbed her in their arms, and raced her back down the mountain, at almost warp speed. I have never seen anything like it, they almost appeared super-human. Now as difficult as it is, to climb this mountain, and as much pain as they must have been in, like the rest of us, they raced down that cliff side with huge skill and I was in awe of their bravery. As you know what goes up, must come down, and believe me, coming down is a heck of a lot harder than going up! My feet are still bruised and it’s 3 weeks after the trek. The mountain is so steep you have to sort of shuffle down sideways, and you experience a whole new set of muscle pain, ligament strain, dizziness, and you find a new found respect for gravity. If you get sick up one of these mountains, you’re pretty much on your own. We we’re so high that Helicopters can’t even fly. So without the bravery of our Sherpa’s, Sarah would not have made it. Thankfully she made a full recovery once she got to the nearest town and a doctor, and none of us can thank our Sherpa’s strongly enough. They fed us, watered us and truly looked out for us. Although I could not eat for the 3 days I was on the Trek. I just couldn’t do it, everything smelled, tasted, even looked like garlic. I’m a basic meat and 2 veg kinda guy, and I just could not handle the food. Don’t get me wrong, we got the best of what resources we had, but I couldn’t do it. And that sure didn’t help my altitude sickness or the fact that my stomach was totally empty! On the way down from Day 3, we came across a small graveyard, and out of nowhere a group of condors appeared, literally out of the blue. One minute the sky was empty, the next these birds swept over the graveyard. It was the eeriest sight, but not scary, it almost felt surreal, magical in a way. This whole trek was full of magical moments; flashes in time that make you reflect and appreciate your life. When we finally shuffled our way back to base camp, I had no choice, my boots we’re not made for walking mountains, so I gave them away, along with my pants! My feet we’re no longer Pasty Irish White, they we’re quite simply black, blue and purple with patches of green!


Day 4: Our last day, the day we visit Machu Picchu!  We got a bus ride from base camp, and I’m not telling you a lie, it was like a scene from The Italian Job. This bus managed to stay in one piece as we literally struggled up the steepest incline on the planet, which may as well have been a sheer vertical wall. And on the way back down after our tour of The Lost City, it may have well been a rollercoaster ride in Alton Towers! We prayed for dear life that day, I almost expected someone on the bottom to be taking one of those pictures you get, with everyone’s arms up in the air! Bus driver obviously got lessons from The Michael Schumacher School of driving, however, and we made it safely to The Lost Village The city of Machu Picchu is Cusco’s most important tourist attraction. On official record the city was discovered in 1911 by the American explorer, Hiram Bingham, but it is widely believed and accepted by the locals of Peru that an ordinary farmer from the valley below actually discovered this fabulous place first, which is considered to be one of the most extraordinary examples of scenic architecture in the world. I have no idea why it’s not listed as one of The Wonders of the World. It’s absolutely breath-taking. The city of Machu Picchu was built at the top of a granite mountain. The Incas, using ingenious engineering techniques, were able to transport heavy stone blocks up the mountain side, and once there, they used their excellent masonry skills to produce amazingly polished stones that fit together perfectly. How on earth could an ancient civilisation manage to construct an entire city, on a cliff-face, 20,000 feet up a mountain and keep it hidden and a secret? The city only has one entrance, two stone pillars mark the only way in, or out, protecting the ancient Inca’s from attack. Although Peru was taken over by the Spanish, they never discovered this city. Machu Picchu really is an architectural diary of how the Inca’s lived. There are many places of worship in the city and indeed many of the relics discovered here, showed signs of how the Inca’s adapted their religious beliefs from the Spanish, but added new dimensions to that religion, defiantly making it their own and not just their occupying governments. They were a deeply spiritual society and who could deny them that, considering the majestic surroundings they built their home in. You need only look at my pictures folks; honestly my words could not do this place justice.

 

We did it. We climbed 14,500 feet and 35 kilometres in 3 days, that’s 26 miles for those that haven’t done the change over yet! And strangely enough, as we left Machu Picchu and its lush green mountainside, and as we said goodbye to our brave and humble Sherpa’s in Cusco and arrived back in the hotel, all I could think of was McDonalds!! Yes, I heard there was one here and as I hadn’t eaten for 3 days, I wanted a McChicken Burger and wanted it NOW! After we landed at our hotel we had about 10 minutes to make it to McFry Heaven before it closed down for the night, and there were no signs of bruised feet as I raced to the Big M! When I got to the counter they informed they opened all night!! At last…FOOD! Real Food!!! That night, all of us realized what we had just gone through as a group. The next day we headed back to Lima, we had a few beers, lots more food and a lovely concert was performed by Mikey and Darren! We sat and talked about what this trip meant to each one of us, and why we did it. More tears of course, but the bond we’ve all shared, is a bond that will never be broken. They’ve all become very dear friends of mine and I am so grateful to have met each and every one of them.


And, when I finally made it back home, the first thing I saw was a sign in the window of my house that said ‘Well Done Daddy’. And that was even more magical than standing on top of that mountain only a day and a half earlier (give or take) I cannot rate this trek highly enough for anyone who wants to experience the ultimate mountain climb, or for anyone who wants to absorb nature at it’s most astounding or for anyone who wants to immerse themselves in an ancient civilisation! But there are a few things I’d like to pass on, words of wisdom if you like. Firstly, sun-cream won’t work! End of story! Wear sun hats and have walking sticks. Secondly you must must must get altitude training before you go. Climbing Croke Patrick a few times before you go to Peru would be an excellent way to prepare. Thirdly…Prepare! You need well fitted hiking boots that won’t kill you, clothing that will keep you cool and breathable! Fourthly you need to know the terrain. Seriously, we had no idea their where Puma’s only a few feet from us at any given time! These animals are extremely shy and will keep their distance, they feed on the local wildlife so you are pretty much safe from them, and still, if they decided to attack, you would have no chance! Our Sherpa’s told us that on the last night, not sure if I’d stayed had I known earlier! But they were looking out for us all the time, we were protected, if you go alone, know the terrain! There are lots of places to fall, and I mean fall thousands of feet, so again, know the terrain inside out! Know if you are allergic to anything, food, insects that sort of thing, and know what type of water supply you will be exposed to. Know what kind of foods you can tolerate or not tolerate in my case. All this is so important, because once you’re up that mountain, your up. There is no fast track back to the nearest town and your very life could depend on how well you have prepared. And also while your there, remember to respect where you walk. This place has been preserved for thousands of years, especially Machu Picchu and nobody will take kindly to you at all, if you drop even a tissue by accident. Besides once your there, you no doubt will bond with Mother Nature as I did, and you’ll feel an urge to protect it anyway, such is it’s power!!


I would like to thank my family and friends, who supported me throughout, from the beginning right to the end. Without them texting me and giving me words of support and many a joke to keep my spirits up, on the long haul up the trek, I don’t know what I would have done. It meant so much to me. Thank you too, to my sponsors and businesses that helped me raise money.  Let me also give a very special mention to Lizzy and Jim Ellis who did most of my fundraising.


No thank you of course is as big as my thank you to Gemma, my wife, for holding the fort with the twins and for being by my side all the way. I really could not have done this at all without her or the kids. They’re the best!


I would personally like to praise everyone who I met on the trip. These amazing people took time out of their lives to raise money for Irish Autism Action and without people like them, much needed funds could not be raised. So thank you to the crew who came from Cork to London to Spain to Peru!


Kevin, Luke, Keith, Paul, Jenny Lee, Darren, Annika, The two Dave’s,Niall, Declan, Mark (Lambo), Vincent, Jenny, Fiona, Mary, Ger, Mervyn, John, Mickey, Fiona, Mary, Rico, Chris, Alvero. Emily, Fred, Nigel, Colette, Sarah Aiden and Peter.


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on January 02, 2010, 12:27AM
 Thursday, November 26, 2009
   
New Photos
Hiya

Just had new photo shoot done here at home. Lot of laughs during the session. Here are a couple of shots, more will be posted asap. Photography by Declan Masterson.

Getting ready to go to my spiritual home. Big Apple here I come.

D


Pictures here: http://blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.ListAll&friendId=134975287&page=1








Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on January 02, 2010, 12:28AM
 Wednesday, December 02, 2009
   
Charity Events December
Category: Music
Darren has added two events to his calendar where he is making a guest appearance for Autism charities, a cause he has been supported for several months, including his trek to Peru.

Official press release for the Keith Duffy Masquerade Ball in aid of Irish Autism Action and Saplings School for Autism in Rathfarnham - 5 December

Boyzone's Keith Duffy: Pain over Stephen Gately death is ‘easing only slowly’ Friday, 20 November 2009
Stephen Gately and husband Andrew Cowles



Boyzone's Keith Duffy last night described the pain of struggling to come to terms with the death of his “dear friend” Stephen Gately.
He said he is “coping much better now” and is trying to move forward with his life.
“The first three weeks were very tough and I couldn't see any light at the end of the tunnel, but now, things have started to ease. I'm getting back to work and managing to get through the day,” he told the Irish Independent.
Mr Gately died last month on holiday in Majorca, aged 33.
“I'd never experienced losing somebody so close to me, somebody I kind of looked after and was a very dear friend of mine. It's hard to deal with.”
Boyzone split up a number of years ago before reuniting in 2007.
“We're lucky we got back together. . . there was a lot of things to talk about and a lot of things to catch up on and we managed to do that so there's no regrets,” he said.
“There would be massive regrets if Stephen had passed away and I hadn't seen him in a while but we were pretty much living in each other's pockets.”
He was speaking at the launch of The Keith Duffy Masquerade Ball 2009, in aid of Irish Autism Action and the Saplings School for Autism in Rathfarnham, at the Westbury Hotel in Dublin yesterday.
The event is held on Saturday December 5, at the Royal Hospital, Kilmainham, Dublin, with special guests Aslan, Darren Holden and Keith Barry.
Belfast Telegraph


Poster for the Charity Gala Fashion Show in Aid of Newtonmountkennedy Primary School 10 December







Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on January 02, 2010, 12:28AM
 Friday, December 04, 2009
   
Liam Clancy- RIP
Hi all.

Greeting from The Big Apple.

I have just been informed that Finbarrs uncle, the great Liam Clancy, has passed on to his eternal reward.
I would like to take this opportunity to send my deepest condolences to Finbarr and the entire Clancy family, at this very sad time.
No words I can put here, will add to what's already been written and achieved by Liam Clancy.  The man was a legend.
He, along with his brothers and Tommy Makem, kicked open a very important door for Irish artists in the US.  A door that remains open today.

Bob Dylan once referred to Liam as the greatest ballad singer of all time.

May God rest his soul, and prepare Heaven for the greatest Irish ballad re-union it's ever going to see.

The Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem.   Back together again.

RIP.


I am about to hop on a flight back to Ireland, and do a show tomorrow night.

I will catch up with you all very soon.

Take care,

Darren.


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on January 02, 2010, 12:29AM
 Monday, December 07, 2009
   
HOT PRESS ARTICLE
hotpress.com Logo..

Liam Clancy 1935-2009
04 Dec 2009
The great Irish ballad singer Liam Clancy has died at Bon Secours Hospital in Cork.
 
He died as a result of pulmonary fibrosis – the medical term for scarring of the lung. He was aged 74.Described by Bob Dylan as the greatest ballad singer of them all, Clancy was a legend in Irish music.Coming from Carick-On-Suir in Tipperary, Liam emigrated to the US in 1956 and along with his brothers Paddy, Bobby and Tom, became involved in the theatrical scene in New York.He first emerged as a star as part of The Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem, who played the hugely influential Ed Sullivan Show in 1961 – and never looked back. They became a huge succcess in the US singing raucous Irish rebel songs and emotional ballads – and returned to Ireland as stars. On the Ed Sullivan Show they had worn bawneen jumpers – or Aran sweaters – which became their trademark stage gear for many years afterwards.Liam was the youngest and last-surviving member of the group. All of the group died relatively young: Tom at 66, Paddy at 76, Bobby at 75 and Tommy Makem at 74.

Regarded by many as the finest singer in the Clancys, Liam also enjoyed a very successfulsolo career, which highlighted his unique delivery of songs and his extraordinary interpretative ability.“He was a wonderful singer,” Niall Stokes, Editor of Hot Press said. “There was a richness to his voice which was amazing, and a clarity of diction and enunciation which came from his grounding in theatre. To hear Liam Clancy sing was to a fantastic privilege. His passing will be greatly mourned by anyone with a love of, or a feel for, Irish folk music. But his marvellous legacy will live on.”The film The Yellow Bittern, directed by Alan Gilsenan, and released in 2009, is a fine tribute to one of the great legends of Irish music. Liam’s last album The Wheels of Life was released late in 2008 and was voted the No.2 album in the Hot Press Folk Albums of the Year in the latest issue of the magazine, which hit the newstands yesterday.

“I am very saddened to hear about the passing of Liam Clancy. I know he had been ill for a little while, but news like this still comes as a shock,” Darren Holden of The High Kings said on hearing the news. “Liam Clancy, along with his brothers, kicked-open a very important door for Irish music and artists in the USA. That door remains open today for countless singers from our country and indeed The High Kings, which features Liam’s nephew, Finbarr.“I talked to Finbarr a little while ago from New York and he is overwhelmed by the amount of calls and messages of sympathy that the family have received. Liam Clancy was a legend, a poet and musical diplomat, the likes of which will never be seen again.”


Thew Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism, Martin Cullen also paid tribute.“Liam Clancy was a nationally and internationally renowned folk singer and was an example of an absolutely dedicated artistic craftsman,” the Minister said. ”This generous and life-giving person enriched all of our lives with memorable songs and was part of the fabric of Ireland’s proud traditional music culture.“Universally known as a folk singer, Liam – as both a soloist and as a member of The Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem – greatly enhanced the reputation of Ireland and Irish music. Their performances during the folk music revival era set them apart from others, particularly in the States and Liam’s superb singing, warm voice and gift for communicating in a unique story telling style with his audience, attracted the appreciation and admiration of people everywhere.

"It was always so obvious with Liam Clancy that he loved what he was doing, and his precsence made you feel welcome. People in An Rinn in Waterford, in Carrick-on-Suir, and around the world, will mourn his passing. I extend my deepest condolences to his wife, his children and his extended family at this sad time."

HotPress also extends it's most heartfelt condolences to Liam's family and friends at such a sad time. The world has lost a great artist. RIP





Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on January 02, 2010, 12:30AM
 Tuesday, December 08, 2009
   
entertainment.ie Article
Entertainment ie article
Liam Clancy R.I.P.07 December 2009

Liam Clancy of The Clancy Brothers passed away on Friday at the age of 74.
The traditianal music luminary died from pulmonary fibrosis (scarring of the lung) after a long illness, at Bon Secours Hostpital in Cork. Clancy performed his final gig at the National Concert Hall in pay, when illness forced him to cut short the second of a two night sold out run.

A statement on Clancy's official website reads, "Liam, the last surviving member of the Clancy Brothers, is survived by his wife Kim and their four children, Eben, Siobhan, Donal and Fiona, his eight grandchildren and his sisters Joan and Peg. He will be sadly missed by family, friends and his many fans throughout the world."
Many tributes have been paid to Liam Clancy, a singer even revered by Bob Dylan, who once said that he could not "think of anybody who's a better ballad singer than Liam".

"He was a wonderful singer. There was a richness to his voice which was amazing, and a clarity of diction and enunciation which came from his grounding in theatre. To hear Liam Clancy sing was to a fantastic privilege. His passing will be greatly mourned by anyone with a love of, or a feel for, Irish folk music. But his marvellous legacy will live on."- Niall Stokes, Editor of Hot Press.

"I am very saddened to hear about the passing of Liam Clancy ... Liam Clancy, along with his brothers, kicked-open a very important door for Irish music and artists in the USA. " - Darren Holden of The High Kings

"Liam Clancy was a nationally and internationally renowned folk singer and was an example of an absolutely dedicated artistic craftsman. This generous and life-giving person enriched all of our lives with memorable songs and was part of the fabric of Ireland’s proud traditional music culture." – Martin Cullen, Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism

entertainment.ie


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on January 02, 2010, 12:30AM
 Tuesday, December 08, 2009
   
Keith Duffy Masquerade Ball plus 2 new Christmas songs uploaded!
Hey everyone.

What a week it's been!

Spent some quality time in my favourite city in the world, New York. Saw some old friends, met a few new ones too! Sang the hits....ya know the rest!  Oh...and far too much Starbucks!!

As I posted before I left  New York on Friday,  Finbarr's uncle and Irish folk music legend Liam Clancy passed away.

I attended the funeral with my dad yesterday in Dungarvan, Co Waterford. In freezing temperatures, a packed church bade farewell to the youngest Clancy brother amid bittersweet laughter and a few tears. Liams son Donal played exquisite guitar as always throughout the service and our mentor Shay Healy spoke poignantly before they carried Liam out of the church. I saw a few old friends at the church including my buddy Davey Cashin from the up and coming group "The Kilkennys". Look out for them.

The masquerade ball was a huge success on Saturday night, with the Royal Hospital Kilmainham providing an exquisite setting. I did a mostly Billy Joel/ Beatles set with the 400 strong crowd taking over on "Hey Jude". Great to see some old friends again, including Keith and Ronan from Boyzone,  Keith Barry and Michelle Heaton.

What a great laugh we all had! Nuff said! lol

Finally, I have uploaded 2 Christmas songs that most of you would not have heard yet.

" Bring us Peace" and "All I want for Christmas is you" are both Bryan Steele compositions and recorded a few years back.

I keep meaning to finish the Christmas album that we started 2 years ago and hope to have it ready for next year!

Hope you enjoy!!

Take care everyone!

Darren.


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on January 02, 2010, 12:31AM
 Friday, December 11, 2009
   
Last Nights "Autism Charity Fashion Show" in Wicklow
Category: Music
Hey everyone.

Well, what can I say about last nights "Autism Action Ireland" charity fashion show in Wicklow!

So great to see so many of my friends from our Trek to Peru again, and what a time we had!

A superb event,  with my friend Jenny Lee Masterson, the start of the catwalk, and an incredible crowd that showed appreciation at every opportunity.

Irish Tenor Des Willoughby stopped by to sing 2 songs, and he was excellent!

Your's truly opened the second act with a set consisting of  a Billy Joel medley, Ballads, and Originals, all of which were thankfully, gratefully recieved.

"The Star" photographer Declan Masterson travelled with me to the show, so no doubt there will be lots of new pics to show you soon!

There is lots going on  at the moment, so I will blog again really soon.

Have a great weekend everyone!

Darren.


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on January 02, 2010, 12:31AM
 Saturday, December 12, 2009
   
KCLR 96 FM Sue Nunn Show Monday 14 December
Darren will be on the Sue Nunn Show on KCLR 96 FM on Monday morning, 14 December. The show runs from 9am until midday and he will be one of a few guests talking about their favorite books in the 'Christmas Books Special' part of the show. This is due to be broadcast around 10.30am Ireland time.

Excert from the KCLR Site

9am-Noon: The Sue Nunn Show
Join us for our flagship show. Each day, just after nine, we feature a guest newspaper reviewer. Pat Treacy will also be joining Sue in the studio to look back at the weekend's sport.
Today is a "Christmas books special" - we'll have lots of guests with their favourite books. There'll be book revieews, books for kids and books for the man or woman in your life. There'll be sports books, there'll be cookery books - in fact there'll be books for everyone - along with plenty of music and craic. Today's show is brought to you iin association with The Book Centre on High Street Kilkenny, a real bookshop and an Irish owned family business since 1974” -
You can find out more by joining Sue's facebook page by clicking here or on her twitter page by clicking here. We also love for you to get involved in the show by phone, by text or you can e-mail the show directly by clicking here.


Please tune in if you can, you can listen live online on the link below. The listen live link is on the top right of the page.

KCLR 96 FM Listen Live



Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on January 02, 2010, 12:32AM
 Monday, December 14, 2009
   
Munster Express Newspaper Report.

Good night and joy be with you, Liam
By Dermot Keyes. Published on Friday, December 11th, 2009 at 4:37 pm
It was the sort of day that Liam Clancy would have revelled writing about. Orating about. Singing about.
A grey and moody sky hung over Helvick, complimented by a cutting, wild wind skirting in from the sea that would have left even the hardiest of folk longing for indoors and its many comforts. Company. Family. A high stool. Craic. A guitar. Life and all its many glories.
But Monday was no ordinary day. For Liam Clancy’s stories are now told, his songs are now sung, the guitar and concertina now quietened, the final curtain on the stage of his life now drawn.
“Have ye no homes to go to?” were whimsical words which surely ran through minds in Dungarvan, in his native Carrick-on-Suir and indeed the world over as Liam was laid to rest in An Rinn.
That his was a life well lived was spelled out eloquently by Father Conchúir Ó Ceallaigh, Parish Priest of An Rinn, whose words of tribute would have earned warm palms from Liam himself.
“It has been said that God made Man because he loves stories,” said Fr Ó Ceallaigh during his homily before a packed church.
“And the stories that He told well need great storytellers. And if that be so, then the Lord has called to Himself a great storyteller in Liam Clancy. And in song and verse, we can believe that the Lord is enjoying some wonderful stories now.”
Fr Ó Ceallaigh then shared the first poem he ever learned from Liam with the congregation, words he learned from a Clancy record when just a teenager, the words of French poet Charles Baudelaire.
“One should always be drunk. That’s all that matters; So as not to feel Time’s horrible burden that breaks your shoulders and bows you down, you must get drunk without ceasing.
“But what with? With wine, with poetry, or with virtue, as you choose. But get drunk. So that you may not be the martyred slave of Time, get drunk, get drunk and never pause for rest. With wine, with poetry, or with virtue, as you choose.”
Fr Ó Ceallaigh added, to laughter from those assembled: “I’d like to think that Liam wouldn’t be expected a priest to stand up here in front of all of you this morning and say ‘get drunk’.
“But then I don’t think he was speaking about the inebriation that comes from a lot of alcohol so much as he was speaking about the intoxication that comes from being passionately involved with and totally committed to what you were doing.”
Speaking of Liam Clancy’s “joie de vivre, the exuberant spirit of a life lived to the full,” Fr Ó Ceallaigh said that through his music and performing, Liam helped others to share in that same sense of exuberance.
“He brought happiness to so many people that he had to have a reservoir of joy within himself.”
An intelligent man and a deep thinker, Liam Clancy was a man who felt deeply about his family, friends and life in general, Fr Ó Ceallaigh told mourners.
“Such a person reminds us that we can often live our lives in a much too shallow way. Liam would, no doubt (tell us) that life is too wonderful and mysterious to just get through each day by skimming the surface of experience.”
Liam Clancy, a man with a great sense of humour, offered himself to the world as he was, never trying to be anyone other than himself, added Fr Ó Ceallaigh.
“He was sincere and passionate about what he believed was right. He never gave less than his best and he stood up and was counted when it came to things that others might have kept quiet about.
“He lived to the full all the years that were given him and now as he leaves this world behind, he enters into an even bigger story and into a fullness of life that we can only guess at.”
Fr Ó Ceallaigh, sounding a note that many surely shared since last Friday’s sad news from Cork, spoke of Liam Clancy being reunited with his family and friends who had gone before him.
“The great band is together again and the music is fierce and the craic is mighty.”
Among the congregation were many of Liam’s colleagues from the world of music, including Paddy Reilly, Finbar and Eddie Furey, Liam Ó Maonlaí and Darren Holden, who performs with Liam’s nephew Finbarr in The High Kings.
Also present were ‘Yellow Bittern’ director Alan Gilsenan, broadcaster Sean Bán Breathnach and Donncha Gough of traditional group Danú.
Minister for Arts, Tourism and Sport Martin Cullen represented the Government at the Funeral Mass, while Deputy John Deasy, Dungarvan Mayor Damien Geoghegan and Councillors from Dungarvan and Carrick Town Councils were also present.
President McAleese was represented by Aide de Camp Captain Brian Walsh while the Taoiseach Mr Cowen was represented by Aide de Camp Commandant Michael Treacy.
Fr Ó Ceallaigh was joined in the celebration of the Requiem Mass by Fathers William Ryan, Paul Waldron, Richard Geoghegan, Milo Guiry, Brendan Crowley, John Kiely, Seamus Humphries OSA, Paddy Creed and Flor O’Callaghan.
The ceremony began with music from Kevin Evans and Paul Grant, who performed a medley of tunes made famous by Liam Clancy.
Son-in-law Cárthach MacCraith sang ‘Ag Chríost an Síol’ and ‘Ár nAthair’, while his son Dónal played the traditional farewell lament, ‘Mo Ghile Mear’, which the congregation spontaneously began to hum before breaking into heartfelt, dignified song.
During the bi-lingual ceremony, Liam’s coffin was adorned by his concertina and corduroy cap, a photo of him performing and a copy of the collected poems of William Butler Yeats, its spine held intact by Sellotape.
As Liam Clancy’s remains were lowered into the earth in An Rinn, a rainbow shot across the sky, while the air was filled with the strains of ‘Will Ye Go Lassie Go’ and ‘The Parting Glass’.
Liam Clancy, the youngest of 11 siblings, was born in William Street, Carrick-on-Suir on September 2nd 1935, son of Robert Joseph Clancy and Joanna McGrath.
He is survived by his wife Kim, their four children Fiona and Siobhán, Eben and Dónal, daughter Anya (from a previous relationship), sisters Joan and Peg along with his eight grandchildren.
 
http://www.munster-express.ie/community-notes/carrick/good-night-and-joy-be-with-you-liam/


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on January 02, 2010, 12:32AM
 Thursday, December 17, 2009
   
Keith Duffy Charity Ball review


Monday, December 14, 2009
Keith Duffy Ball



Keith Duffy hosted the last ball of 2009 in aid of charity last week. The Keith Duffy Masquerade Ball took place in the Great Hall, at The Royal Hospital Kilmainham. The gala, in association with Raymond Weil, was held in aid of Irish Autism Action and the Saplings School for Autism in Rathfarnham.

As guests arrived at Kilmainham they were greeted by all the magic of Christmas. Each guest was given a mask on arrival to keep with the theme of the night, with RTE’s Brian Ormond acting as MC. The evening commenced with a drink reception, after which guests enjoyed a four-course meal with entertainment by a host of celebrities and stars including Keith Barry and Darren Holden. After dinner there was much dancing to legendary band Aslan.

Among those who attended on the night wereKeith and Lisa Duffy, Ronan and Yvonne Keating, Caroline and Denis Desmond, Morah Ryan, Liam Cunningham, Michael and Kim Wright, Michelle Heaton and Hugh Hanley to name but a few.


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on January 02, 2010, 12:33AM
 Friday, December 18, 2009
   
KCLR Radio interview on Monday last
Hey everyone.

Last Monday I had the privilege to be a guest again on  the KCLR Radio show "Off The Record" with my friend Sue Nunn.

Its always nice to go home, and the welcome I get at the station makes it worthwhile.

I was to discuss the last two books that I have read as part of a book special, but was asked to sing also. As I didn't have my guitar with me, I sang a few songs unaccompanied. You can check it out by clicking on the link below and having a listen.

KCLR Radio Show - download

Hope you are gearing up for Christmas and have your shopping done!

As usual I am useless and way behind!

Talk to you all soon.

Enjoy the radio show.



Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on January 02, 2010, 12:34AM
 Wednesday, December 23, 2009
   
Merry Christmas
Category: Music
Hi everyone,

Well...it's that time of year again and Santa is on his way!

The Holden household is heaving with with excitement at the thought of his arrival, and I have a feeling this could be a very Merry Christmas!

As a little thank you to you all for your continued and tireless support throughout 2009, I have attached a copy of my performance with the US Marine Corp band, at the Annual Christmas tree lighting at The White House in 2004. President Bush later joined me for a moment on Jingle Bells!!

I am happy to finally be able to share this momentous night with you all. It really was a career highlight.

May God bless you all this Christmas and keep you safe and sound, surrounded by your loved ones.

Thats how I am spending this years Holiday season.
2009 has blessed me with a loving family, old friends and some incredible new ones!

Finally...

The High Kings photo/TV shoot took place yesterday for the brand new album due Feb 12th.

All I can say is....WOW!!!!...and  "You ain't seen nothing yet"!!!!!!

Merry Christmas everyone!

Darren.

http://blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.ListAll&friendId=134975287&page=1


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on January 02, 2010, 12:35AM
 Thursday, December 31, 2009
   
Happy New Year!!!
Hey Everyone.

I would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a very happy and healthy 2010, and I hope all your dreams come to pass!

Thank you so very much for the constant support throughout 2009, and being with me every step of the way in my various solo projects.

Things on the HK front have been a bit quiet since the summer, but I can tell you now that 2010 is shaping up to be a mammoth year for us.

If the incredible recent  photo shoot and video shoot are anything to go by, then you are in for a treat.

Universal Records are now on board, which is a massive dream come true for me, as many of my favourite artists are on their roster, including Bryan Adams and Bon Jovi.
Can't quite fathom sharing a label with them just yet!!!!!!

The new look for the group is very stylish and you would be forgiven for thinking that we may show up on a catwalk somewhere in Europe yet!!  ha ha

So.....please stay on board with me for the coming year, and once again let me wish you and yours the very best for 2010!

God bless,


Darren.


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on January 09, 2010, 01:07AM
 Friday, January 08, 2010
   
New songs uploaded very soon!

Hey everyone.

I am aware that the Christmas songs are still up, but please be patient as I am in the process of uploading alternate versions of the " Live and Learn" album that were recorded for "Capitol Records" in 2002.
There are some pics from a photo shoot that they had me to do in  Carolina from that period too that will appear soon.

Hope you are all well and back in the swing of things!

God bless,

Darren.


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on January 15, 2010, 11:13PM
 Wednesday, January 13, 2010
   
Live and Learn-The Capitol Tracks.

Hey everyone.

As promised, I have uploaded 3 alternate versions of songs from the "Live and learn" sessions that I recorded for Capitol Records in 2002.
These were only recently sent to me from Capitol Nashville where they have been since that time.

To make a long story short, Mike Dungan, the president of Capitol Nashville contacted my manager at the time, Don Dinicola after hearing a demo of "Blood and Smoke".
Mike wanted to record an album with me in the style of Roy Orbison and Chris Isaak, so needless to say I was pretty excited.  Due to a clearout at Capitol not long after the sessions were wrapped, the plan was put on the back burner, and  I subsequently released the album with Blacksmith/Universal in 2003.

Anyway, there is one track that you have never heard before called "Small Town Life".
A Rockabilly groover, with a tongue in cheek lyric and myself imitating the Jordinaires on backing vocals.
Blood and Smoke has the Orbison/Isaak vibe.

Live and Learn is pretty old country and slightly different from the album cut a year later.

I will upload some pics from that photo session in 2002 as soon as possible.

Hope you enjoy!

DH.


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on January 20, 2010, 10:17PM
    
Variety magazine articles 2004
Hi everyone

We thought you might enjoy reading a couple of Variety magazine reviews from 2004 when Darren was performing as Pianoman in the Billy Joel/Twyla Tharp show Movin' Out. The reviews are from Detroit's Fisher Theater and the Pantages Theater in Los Angeles.

Myspace has reduced the size of the photos in the blog, you can see the articles full size in the Press and Media photo album.

Press and Media




click here to read the articles
http://blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.ListAll&friendId=134975287


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on January 24, 2010, 10:58PM
    
East Coast Life Magazine Interview

Hi Everyone

This is a recent 2 page interview Darren has done for East Coast Life magazine in Ireland.





http://blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.ListAll&friendId=134975287


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on January 31, 2010, 11:06PM
    
The High Kings promotion trail across the pond
Darren's old friends at Broadway World leading the push for The High Kings in the USA.

The High Kings Announce New CD To Be Released 2/12

Monday, January 25, 2010; Posted: 12:01 PM - by BWW News Desk

 
Platinum selling The High Kings have now signed to Universal Music Ireland and are delighted to announce their 2nd CD MEMORY LANE which will be launched on February 12th. This new album, the second CD for The High Kings, follows their hugely successful debut self titled album and features a modern take on classic Irish Ballads like 'Step it out Mary' and 'On the One Road'

The High Kings have also announced a 25 date Irish tour. Following on from their 2 previous sold out tours 2010 will see them perform in Galway, Tullamore, Drogheda, Wexford, Offaly, Monasterevin, Cork, Thurles, Waterford, Ennis, Killarney, Derry, Wicklow, Castlebar, Athlone, Armagh, Limerick, Enniscorthy, Castleblayney, Kilkenny, Sligo, Letterkenny, the Grand Canal Theatre Dublin and Carrick-On-Suir. In this new show, The High Kings showcase their incredible versatility and skills as multi-instrumentalists and will perform songs from their highly anticipated new album. The group will also be touring the USA in April and the UK in May.

Tracks on the much anticipated new CD include: Step it out Mary, As I Roved Out, The Fields of Athenry, On The One Road (featuring The Wolfe Tones), Raglan Road, Whiskey In The Jar, Leaving of Liverpool, Red is The Rose, Star Of The County Down, Boolavogue, Cavan Girl, The Rising of the Moon, Green Fields of France, The Irish Rover.

"It is great to bring Irish Folk music to a new generation. We're very passionate about our music and we hope people find the album as inspiring as we do"
For more information visit www.thehighkings.com.


Broadwayworld.com article

The High Kings Official Site - Tour dates and ticket links



Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on January 31, 2010, 11:07PM
    
"Darren to star in Hope for Haiti Charity Concert"
Darren is delighted to be heading home to St Mary's Cathedral, City, Kilkenny tomorrow night to sing with his friends in the sensational Kilkenny Gospel Choir. The event is aimed to raise money for the people of Haiti.

Darren is the "very special guest star" on a night that will feature a host of singer's and personalities, and will perform the inspirational new anthem for Haiti "We will Rise" with the choir.

This follows on from last March's sellout concert at the same venue with Darren and the choir which marked Daffodil day and raised funds for cancer research.


Article from the Kilkenny Advertiser



Gospel choir hosts gala concert for Haiti

Kilkenny Advertiser, January 29, 2010.

Kilkenny Advertiser
The Kilkenny Gospel Choir

The Kilkenny Gospel Choir will host a gala concert for Haiti on February 1, in St Mary’s Cathedral Kilkenny beginning at 8pm

The concert brings together some of Kilkenny’s greatest talent including Darren Holden, Don Mescal, Mick Hanley, the Dungarvan Gospel Choir, Tukolo, the Thomastown Choir, Jim Maher and Jim Fitzpatrick, Mog O’ Grady, and uileann pipe player Billy Carrigan. Reflections will be read by Sue Nunn, Brian Cody, and Bishop Seamus Freeman. Sr Maeve Guinan who has just returned from Haiti will share her experience of the devastation she has seen there

Sr Maeve is a member of the Cluny sisters who are based in Haiti and whose schools were destroyed. Most of their pupils were lost in the earthquake and now they must find money to feed the children who are orphaned. A collection will be taken up in the cathedral for her. Further information from the Kilkenny Gospel Choir.

www.kilkennygospelchoir.com


Kilkenny Advertiser


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on February 06, 2010, 09:55PM
    
Amazing to be the main attraction on such a special night
Category: Music
Wow!!!

What can I say about last night at St Mary's Cathedral in Kilkenny!

The love in the house was surely felt in Haiti, and I hope that the 13 thousand Euros raised will help out in some way.

An emotional night which included a host of name's  from entertainment, sports and radio and a capacity crowd.

I have to say, I was blown away to be asked by Fr Willie Purcell and The Kilkenny Gopel Choir,  to be the headliner on such a huge night!  I have to admit that the home crowd always give me an insane welcome, and last night was no exception.
I love performing with the gospel Choir, such a polished and professional outfit, and boy can they sing!

It was great to hang out afterwards with everyone and chat with all the gang from KK, but it's so difficult to leave that great city when the time comes.
To everyone who made it so special to be home.....Thanks!!!

For the generosity from Kilkenny to the people of Haiti....Huge Thanks!!!

Talk soon.

Darren





Gala Concert in response to Haiti Disaster

The Kilkenny Gospel Choir once again decided to take an active role in involving the people of Kilkenny and surrounding counties in partaking in an event while fundraising for a worthwhile cause. Upon learning of the devastation and plight of the people of Haiti, we sat down and wondered what we as a choir and outreach group could do and a decision was made that we would host a concert in aid of the people of Haiti. Fr. Willie went on local radio and made an open invitation for people to join us on the night. The number of people and various groups who approached the choir was truly heartwarming

Over €12,000 was raised during the collection made on the night. We can never express our gratitude for the generosity shown on the night by all those who attended. We are also very grateful to all those who performed on the night, Darren Holden, Don Mescall, Mick Hanley, Stephen Murphy, Mog O’Grady & Billy Carrigan, Jim Maher & Paddy Fitzpatrick, Thomastown Choir, Dungarvan Gospel Choir, Thukolo, Scoil Airegail and Na Fianna. We were also honoured to have Bishop Seamus Freeman along with Brian Cody, Sue Nunn, Sr. Maeve Guinan and many others in attendance on the night and for a huge thank you to them for giving their time. We also have to thank Edwina Grace for her fantastic job as compare on the night, Seamus Reade for his position as stage manager and to Conmore Press for printing the posters. All of these people gave of their time freely and the Kilkenny Gospel Choir are grateful that we have friends such as these on hand.

Lastly I would just like to say a big thank you to our own members of the Kilkenny Gospel Choir, who give of their time so generously time and time again.


kilkennygospelchoir.com


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on February 06, 2010, 09:56PM
    
Official Rockband pic & HK single for Haiti

Darren's official photo for his 'Caught' track on the new Rockband game has been released.



There's also exciting news of a new High Kings single being released on 12 February to raise money for the Haiti Earthquake appeal. Broadwayworld are once again quick with spreading the news.

The High Kings Perform With The Wolf Tones For Charity

Thursday, February 4, 2010; Posted: 12:02 PM - by BWW News Desk

Finbarr Clancy, Brian Dunphy, Martin Furey & Darren Holden and THE WOLFE TONES will be performing together for the very first time on a very special charity single "ON THE ONE ROAD".

Proceeds from the single will be donated to GOAL'S HAITI EARTHQUAKE APPEAL http://www.goal.ie

Available on download only from February 12th

"We are delighted to be able to help GOAL's work for the relief effort in Haiti. We were all greatly moved by the extent of the tragedy and hope that the proceeds from this single can go some small way towards helping the people most affected," the guys said today.

GOAL CEO John O'Shea said: "This is a very generous and a very welcome gesture from The High Kings and The Wolfe Tones. People who buy the single can be assured that all proceeds will be used to support our relief and rehabilitation efforts in Haiti and further alleviate the suffering of some of the survivors of the earthquake."

This very special single will be available across all digital platforms from February 12th. ON THE ONE ROAD is a single from The High Kings forthcoming new album Memory Lane which will be released on Universal Music Ireland label February 12th just before the group start a 25 date Irish tour on 22nd February which will include Galway, Wexford, Cork, Waterford, Thurles, Castlebar, Athlone, Sligo and the Grand Canal Theatre Dublin.

www.thehighkings.com


Broadwayworld.com article


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on February 06, 2010, 09:57PM
    


High Kings and Wolftones Release Haiti Charity Single

By dionsis • February 4, 2010


The High Kings, With the Wolfe Tones, 2 of Irelands longest running and respected Traditional Musicians have banded together to perform together for the first time for a very special charity single.

“ON THE ONE ROAD” is the name of the single and all the proceeds from the single will be donated to Goal’s Haiti Earthquake appeal. http://www.goal.ie

Its available at download only from february 12th 2010

The Wolftones and High Kings had this to say…..

“We are delighted to be able to help GOAL’s work for the relief effort in Haiti.  We were all greatly moved by the extent of the tragedy and hope that the proceeds from this single can go some small way towards helping the people most affected,”
GOAL CEO John O’Shea said:  “This is a very generous and a very welcome gesture from The High Kings and The Wolfe Tones. People who buy the single can be assured that all proceeds will be used to support our relief and rehabilitation efforts in Haiti and further alleviate the suffering of some of the survivors of the earthquake.”






Goldenplec.com article




Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on February 07, 2010, 11:18PM
    
Irish Sunday Mirrror national newspaper article
Category: Music
Article in the Irish Sunday Mirror national newspaper today


Funnyman can crown Kings in the US

by Richie Taylor
7 February 2010

Chart topping group The High Kings have a secret weapon that they hope will help them conquer America - Hollywood star Steve Martin.

The A-list actor, who is also an acclaimed banjo player, is a huge fan and hopes to gig with them and appear on TV.

The band - Darren Holden, Brian Dunphy, Finbarr Clancy and Martin Furey - are due to release their second album in the US in April and hope to hook up with Martin.

Piano player Holden revealed: "I met Steve in New York before Chrismas last year and he told me he loved The High Kings. We're hoping he'll play with us and endorse us. If he takes us under his wing it help tip the balanace over there. He's a brilliant banjo player and actually preferes to talk about Irish Music than the movie business."



[Irish Sunday Mirror national newspaper 7 February 2010]


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on February 15, 2010, 12:34AM
    
New High Kings album Memory Lane out Friday!

Just a little reminder that the long awaited second album from The High Kings will be released in Ireland on Friday, 12 February and will be available in the Irish record stores.

The album 'Memory Lane' includes: Step it out Mary, As I Roved Out, The Fields of Athenry, On The One Road (featuring The Wolfe Tones), Raglan Road, Whiskey In The Jar, Leaving of Liverpool, Red is The Rose, Star Of The County Down, Boolavogue, Cavan Girl, The Rising of the Moon, Green Fields of France, The Irish Rover.

The High Kings have been signed to the major label Universal Ireland and Managing Director Mark Crossingham said:
"I'm incredibly excited about the new High Kings album and we have huge ambitions for them. It's an amazing record that will appeal to young and old alike"

Unfortunately for American fans, the album is not due for release in the US until April. If you can't wait that long to get your hands on a copy, do not despair! The album will be available to buy from Amazon UK on Monday 15 February and is already available to pre-order now! They will ship internationally and with the current exchange rates you can have a copy in about 10 days for $24.89.

Memory Lane - Amazon UK

We hope you enjoy listening to it, as much as the High Kings did making it!

Thank you all for your continued support!




Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on February 15, 2010, 12:35AM
    
Broadway World Favorite Love songs article.
Hey everyone,

Broadway World have ran a feature on the favorite love songs of many of Broadway's singers and actors.
They have included a comment from me.

Click the link below

www.broadwayworld.com


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on February 15, 2010, 12:36AM
    
Late Late Show video and Memory Lane preview
Category: Music
Hi Everyone

Yesterday was a very important day for Darren and the High Kings as their second album Memory Lane was released in Ireland. The signs are good that they have another hit on their hands! The itunes charts showed Memory Lane at number 6 this morning, which is a great start. The reaction so far has been fantastic.

It has a very different sound to the last album, it's much more stripped bare and traditional, in line with their new stage show. Darren has two solo songs on the album, Leaving of Liverpool and Cavan Girl, and features in verses on some of the others too.

Fans outside of Ireland won't have heard it in full yet. The download sites such as itunes and 7digital only have it on their Irish stores and can't sell it to IP addresses not resident in Ireland. But if you would like a preview of the album tracks to wet your appetites for the real thing, you can have a listen on this player! Please note the 'Get these downloads' option is available to Irish residents only, they will let you sign up, but won't allow you to buy. You can still buy the CD version for international shipping from

Amazon UK - Memory Lane



The High Kings marked the release of the album with an appearance on RTE's Late Late Show last night. They performed the charity single 'On The One Road' with the Wolfe Tones and it sounds amazing! Sorry we weren't able to blog this is to let you know, it is a condition of performing on the show that artists don't put publicise their performance in advance. In doing so, they could jeopardise their appearance.

We did manage to record it for you though, so here they are with their first TV apearance of the year with On The One Road! Let's hope the song raises lots of money for the GOAL Haiti Appeal.

Thanks for your continued support.





Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on February 15, 2010, 12:41AM
    
National Anthem Performance at National Stadium Dublin
Category: Music
Hi Everyone

The High Kings were invited to perform the Irish National Anthem, Amhrán na bhFiann, before the Irish Lightweight fight between Andy Murray and Oisin Fagan at the National Stadium in Dublin tonight. The fight was part of the Yanjing Fight Night broadcast on RTE 2.

They did a grand job. The ring announcer gave a great plug for the new album before and after their performance. A brilliant opportunity for them to promote the album and the tour to a packed audience.

It's been a fantastic weekend for The High Kings!



Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on February 15, 2010, 12:41AM
    
First chance to breath
Category: Music
..Hi everyone,

Well, what an opening weekend for The High Kings and "Memory Lane".

Two prime time TV slots and the new TV advertisement being ran on RTE, MTV, LIVING, SKY and many more.

We are totally enjoying the whole buzz of the new album and the reaction is amazing so far. The Late Late show was great fun and I think it came across that way in our performance with The Wolfe Tones. We are hoping that enough people download the track during the coming week to send much needed funds to Haiti and send us and the "Tones" to number 1.

This coming week has us moving rehearsals into a sound stage in Dublin, where we will fine tune the upcoming show and really get a feel again for being on stage together. I imagine there will be radio interviews and newspaper slots happening too , so keep your google alerts at the ready, as we don't always see the press when it appears.

Thanks for all the support always and stay on for a wild ride!

DH.






Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on February 25, 2010, 10:54PM
    
HIGH KINGS ALBUM DEBUTS AT NUMBER 5 !!!!!!
Hey everyone.

Some of you will have already heard the news, but for those who haven't here goes........

THE HIGH KINGS NEW ALBUM "MEMORY LANE" HAS DEBUTED IN THE IRISH ALBUM CHART AT NUMBER 5!!!!!!!!

We got the news today during our final rehearsal for the tour, and we were absolutely ecstatic!!

This is a huge day for HK, and a major reminder that the Irish people are behind HK in a big way. No amount of thanks will cover that aspect. I am so proud of everyone involved with us, from management to Brian. Martin, Finbarr and myself.
I can tell you now, HK has never sounded tighter or more together than we do now. Rehearsals are on fire and we hope that the audiences all over the country are going to feel the flames!!!!!!!!!

The champers was popped tonight here at home with family and friends, and we are all enjoying this momentous day for HK.

Thanks to you all for your continued support. It NEVER goes unnoticed!!!!

Love to you all.

Darren.


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on February 25, 2010, 10:54PM
    
High Kings - on RTE 1 tonight!
Category: Music
Hi Everyone

Just to let you know. The High Kings will be performing on the 'Results' show of the 'All Ireland Talent Show' tonight.

The programe is broadcast at 8.30pm Ireland time and should be available to watch online worldwide.

RTE Live

The advert for the new album Memory Lane has been running on various TV stations all over ireland since the release. You can now see the advert on The High Kings official website

Memory Lane TV advert



Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on February 25, 2010, 10:59PM
    
The High Kings on the All Ireland Talent Show - Video
Category: Music
Hi Everyone

The High Kings performed Whiskey In The Jar as guests on RTE's All Ireland Talent Show this evening. Here they are if you missed it,

They did a grand job!

http://blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.ListAll&friendId=134975287


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on February 25, 2010, 11:00PM
    
High Kings Interview - Ireland AM video
Category: Music
Hi Everyone

The high Kings did a 10 minute performance interview on TV3's Ireland AM this morning, fresh back from a fantastic sell out in Galway last night to kick off the 2010 national tour.

They chatted about the album, the tour and Irish music in general before performing a shortened accoustic version of Steppin' Out Mary sitting on the sofa.

The Ireland AM website has the full performance interview and has dedicated a whole page to the High Kings

Interview - The High Kings - Ireland AM TV3

Please click the link and take a look.




http://blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.ListAll&friendId=134975287


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on February 25, 2010, 11:00PM
    
HOPE concert for Haiti in Kilkenny - Videos
Hi Everyone

We hope you will enjoy watching two videos of Darren's performance at the HOPE concert for Haiti at St Mary's Cathedral in Kilkenny 2nd February. Darren was very honoured and proud to be invited to headline such a huge event.

Special thanks to Joe Cashin for sharing them.


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on February 25, 2010, 11:01PM
    
Latest Happenings.
Hey everyone.

We have had another day of rehearsals today, just to fix a few nagging problems, followed by a pre-record Radio interview with Newstalk here in Dublin, which will be  broadcast this Saturday after 11am I believe.
This was quite an interesting interview, and you won't believe what song we finished off with!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Thats all I am saying!

The Town Hall Theatre in Galway was heaving with HK fans for the opening night of the 2010 Irish tour, and what a night we had.
The crowd sang along and roared approval from start to finish and really took this whole trip to another level.
"Memory Lane" has cemented the groups popularity in Ireland like never before, and sales etc are through the roof!
We are having a ball and enjoying the ride.
The tour continues with Radio Interviews on Dublin's Country 106.8FM, and East Coast Radio on Monday March 1st, followed by  the journey to Tullamore where we have local Radio on Monday morning. (Details will be posted)
Hope you are all well.

I am back to normal after a weird weekend which saw the passing of yet another good friend, way too early.
Life's too short folks so .....Live it Up.

See ya out there!

DH.


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on March 06, 2010, 10:37PM
    
HK on Newstalk, the songs, and more radio

Hi Everyone

The High Kings pre-record performance interview for Newstalk was aired yesterday morning. The producer wanted them to sing something to take him back to the 80’s?? Having to come up with something quickly they decided on Norwegian band A-ha’s huge 1985 hit 'Take On Me'.
Newstalk have now added the song to the player on their website. Please click the link and have a listen and let Darren know what you think! A-ha are on the same label and The High Kings so, maybe a collaboration for the future?



After the interview was over, they stuck around in the studio and did a private performance of Step It Out Mary the studio team. They have also added that to their player to share with you all.





The High Kings will be back on the radio again tomorrow. They will be on Dublin's Country Mix 106.8 FM chatting to Lynsey Dolan on her Dublin's Talking show. The show runs from 9am - 11am and Darren expects them to be on around 10.30. You can listen in live here.

Listen Live - Dublin's Country Mix 106.8 FM

Following the Country Mix Show, they will be stepping next door to East Coast FM, who share the same building, for an interview around 11.10am. You can listen live to that too on the following link.

Listen Live - East Coast FM

The tour kicks off for real at Tullamore on Tuesday with back to back shows through to Easter where they have a huge night in Dublin at the brand new Grand Canal Theatre and a final show in Finbarr's home town of Carrick on Suir. See the High Kings official site for dates and ticket links. If the fantastic reaction to the debut show in Galway is any measure, this tour is going to be one not to be missed. Some shows are already 'Sold Out' so don't leave it too long to book!

www. thehighkings.com Tour Dates

That's all the news for now. Enjoy the rest of your weekend.




Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on March 06, 2010, 10:38PM
    
Listen to HK on Country Mix - Midlands 103 FM tomorrow
Hi Everyone

The High Kings were in the studio at Country Mix FM this morning chatting to Lynsey Dolan on her Dublin's Talking Show. They also performed a great version of Whiskey in the Jar.

You can download and listen to the inteview here.

Darren Holden Official Facebook

The High Kings have now hit the road on the first leg of their national tour and are in Tullamore tonight ready for the first show at the Bridge House tomorrow. They won't be getting a lay in as in the morning they will be in the studio at Midlands 103 FM at 09.10am having 'Breakfast with Ann-Marie' for another interview.

You can listen in online here.

Midlands 103 FM


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on March 06, 2010, 10:38PM
    
Listen to Midlands 103 FM and East Coast FM
Hi Everyone

The High Kings dropped by for breakfast with Ann-Marie at Midlands 103 FM this morning. As well as an amusing interview, they also performed As I Roved Out live in the studio.

We also have a recording of yesterday's interview on East Coast FM with Declan Meehan. This included live performances of both Step It Out Mary and the beautiful a capella Red Is The Rose.

Unfortunately Myspace blocks the links to most file hosting sites. But, you can listen to both the interviews, with an option to download, on the links on Darren's official Facebook. We will post more radio interviews there as the tour progresses.

Darren's official Facebook


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on March 06, 2010, 10:39PM
    
Tullamore Rocks.
Hey everyone.

Wow! What a fantastic, loud and rowdy crowd tonight in Tullamore. Great great show!

They knew every word of every song, young and not so young!

This is what HK are all about, and we are enjoying every minute of it.

Tomorrow we are heading to Drogheda for a radio interview with LMFM at 11.30, followed by a signing at "CD World" at 1pm.
Then its the show at TLT.

Talk to ya soon.

Folk N Roll baby!

DH.


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on March 06, 2010, 10:39PM
    
Listen to HK Performance Interview LMFM 95.8 today
Hi Everyone

The High Kings were in the studio at LMFM95.8 this morning, chatting to Daire Nelson. Listen to the interview as they chat about Irish History, the High Kings name and their music heritage and professional careers. They also performed a live studio version of Red Is The Rose.

Drop by Darren's official Facebook page and take a listen.

Darren's Official Facebook page
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Darren-Holden/24990486788

Enjoy


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on March 10, 2010, 09:51PM
    
MONASTEREVIN ETC

Hi Everyone.

I am sitting in Cork city where we drove to last night after Monasterevin.

Without a doubt, last night was the most fun we have had onstage in ages, and with people wedged everywhere in the venue,  bar the stage, it was destined to be a stormer!
It was hot, loud, rowdy and they sang and stomped along with every single song all night!

This is what HK thrive on and it makes it so worthwhile!

We have a signing in The Mahon Centre today at 1pm, and then on to Rossmore for the show tonight. Immediately  after we leave for Dublin, as we are doing the Ryan Tubridy Radio show at 8am.
We also record a show for 4FM tomorrow afternoon. Details of broadcast to follow.

The first week is over and if the rest of the shows can match what we have already experienced, the this tour will be one to live long in the memory.

Thanks to everyone for keeping us at number 8 and in the Top 10 for a 3rd straight week!

See ya soon.

DH.



Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on March 10, 2010, 09:51PM
    
CORK ROCKS!
Hey everyone.

First of all, a big thank you to the many Cork fans who were at the Mahon Centre for our cd signing yestreday! We were blown away by the turnout!

Once again the reaction to HK at Rossmore was beyond anything we hoped for!
An amazing audience who were only too willing to get in on the act, and as always, we welcome that!

Afterwards we headed back to Dublin where we had an early start this morning.

RTE Radio 1 was the port of call, as we we had an interview with our friend Ryan Tubridy who genuinely seemed blown away by a very different version of "Step it out Mary".

We also  performed "Red is the Rose" to finish the interview.

Today we have more pre recorded interview for 4FM plus a much needed evening off!

Cheers!

D


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on March 13, 2010, 10:34PM
    
The Strabane Chronicle - High Kings article
Category: Music

Let's hear it for the High Kings

By Conor Sharkey

   


Billed as one of the most exciting Irish ballad groups in decades, The High Kings perform in the Millennium Forum in Derry on Sunday, March 14.

NAMES such as Clancy, Furey and Dunphy will forever be associated with the finest balladry this country has ever produced.

For decades the Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem endeared global audiences with their beer-soaked tales of drinking, fighting and women. Similarly, the Fureys gave the world some of the most beautiful airs these shores have ever known. Look no further than classics such as The Green Fields of France, Sweet Sixteen and the Red Rose Cafe for example

Sadly, many of the old guard, particularly with regard to the old Clancy/Makem line-up, have passed on.

But while the legends may be gone, the music very much lives on in the sensational High Kings.

Touted as "The most exciting Irish ballad group to emerge since The Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem", The High Kings have been blazing the trail to become the hottest folk and ballad act of the new millennium for the past couple of years.

If you haven't caught them yet, well now is your opportunity. The quartet bring their unique show to the Millennium Forum for one night only on March 14.

Already a multi-platinum selling act, The High Kings brings together Finbarr Clancy, son of Bobby Clancy of the famous Clancy Brothers, Martin Furey, son of Finbarr Furey, Brian Dunphy, son of showband legend Shaun Dunphy and Darren Holden, who has recently returned from playing a lead role in Billy Joel's Movin' Out musical.

Although still somewhat in their infancy in terms of being a band, the quartet has had a remarkable career so far. Along with achieving platinum status with their Debut CD and DVD, the lads have racked up numerous television appearances, Including ringing in the New Year with Ryan Tubridy and closing out Pat Kenny's last ever Late Late Show.

Already The High Kings have completed two sell out tours of Ireland and spent almost all of the Summer 2009 appearing in festivals the length and breadth of the country.

In their latest show, they showcase their incredible versatility and skills as multi-instrumentalists, bringing a rousing acoustic flavour to well-loved folk songs such as The Rocky Road To Dublin, Will Ye Go Lassie Go and the absolute crowd pleaser, The Parting Glass.

Don't miss this chance to see The High Kings up close and personal as they continue to live up to their reputation as a phenomenal live band, serving up laughter, craic and even the odd sing-along.

There is much more to come from this energetic outfit and they take to the stage of the Millennium on Sunday night.

Tickets are £23 and available from the Forum box office, 02871 264455.


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on March 13, 2010, 10:35PM
    
Cork, Waterford.
Hello there!

Well, here we are in sunny Waterford the morning after an absolutely senational night back on  home turf....kinda.
Waterford was very good to me back in the day and so many family and friends turned out last night to give HK an incredible welcome.
Beautiful theatre and and very loud atmosphere and craic.
It seems that audiences all over the country really want to be part of the show and thats always ok with us.
Cork opera house was fantastic as always. Again, a super crowd and a memorable night.
More friends to catch up with there.
Tonight we are in Ennis Co Clare, last time was a sell out. Should be fun.

Hope to catch up soon.

Take care,

D.


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on March 21, 2010, 11:43PM
    
Happy Paddy's Day.

Hey everyone.

We are on a much needed day off at home after a whirlwind week of amazing gigs and crowds around the country.
Killarney was the biggest  and wildest audience yet on the tour. 1,800 people who were up for it from the get go. What a night!! Loved it.
The Millennium Forum in Derry last night, was again a huge crowd who sang along all night and clapped from start to finish. Beautiful theatre  and great atmosphere.
Its been so hard to pick a favourite show so far on this tour. Each one brings a totally new high.
Definitely our most successful tour of yet.

Tomorrow I have a pre-record interview with Billy McCarthy on WLR FM, which will be broadcast on St Patrick's Morning.

THK are performing outside HMV's Flagship store on Dublin's Grafton St, at 11am St Patrick's Day. We will be signing copies of "Memory Lane" afterwards, then its straight on to The Royal Theatre Castlebar for the show.

Hope you are all doing well.

Happy Paddy's day!!

D.


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on March 21, 2010, 11:44PM
    
Great US Review for The High Kings
..The High Kings (Music Review)
Written by Greg Victor on March 17, 2010
highkings2

*** ½ (out of 4)
Label: Universal Music Ireland

If it’s traditional Irish music with a fresh sound and a soulful delivery you’re after, then you want The High Kings. They are fast becoming known as the traditional Irish group for the 21st century. The High Kings are named after the legendary Kings who claimed lordship over the whole of Ireland. The utopian harmony such kings presided over is nothing compared to the perfect musical harmony that these guys create.

Just in time for St. Patrick’s Day, the Platinum-selling Irish vocal/instrumental group The High Kings have released their second amazing album. Titled “Memory Lane,” the new CD is only available as an import so far, but you can always purchase/download their self-titled first album as well. If you’re planning on celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with any authenticity, you are going to want to have the infectious High Kings river-dancing out of your speakers.

The High Kings feature modern takes on classic Irish ballads (a “ballad” in this case isn’t necessarily a slow song – it is a song that contains a complete story. Most Irish ballads are in English, and the musical form originally arrived in Ireland with Scottish settlers.) The High Kings sing these songs with passion and stun audiences with their versatility as multi-instrumentalists. They place equal emphasis on ballads and up-tempo, and excel in performing rhythms so intricate that they usually require a pint or two to even begin to decipher. You can see all of this live when they tour the U.S.A. this spring. So far, no dates have been announced, but they should be soon. If they don’t make it to a concert hall near you, the rousing High Kings TV special that was on PBS last year is also available on DVD.

The High Kings are: Darren Holden, Brian Dunphy, Martin Furey, and Finbarr Clancy (and yes, he’s from that famous Irish music family). All are incredibly talented volcalists and musicians. The group’s producer is David Downes, the former musical director of Riverdance and the creator of Celtic Woman. (Perhaps you’ve seen this feminine Irish import on PBS whenever it’s time for a pledge drive…) When such a talented group of artists comes together, you know the vocals will be awe-inspiring, but what comes as a pleasant surprise are the superb instrumentals that drive the album and set your feet tapping. The rapidity with which the group changes rhythm within a song, within a verse, within a phrase, within a stanza of music is nothing less than the most sophisticated, world-class musicianship. If there isn’t a classification of music known as “Irish Folk Jazz,” The High Kings threaten to invent the category.

Prominently featured is Darren Holden, who might be a familiar face to anyone who saw the Billy Joel Broadway musical “Movin’ Out.” In that show, he starred as The Pianoman, singing the entire evening of Billy Joel songs and playing amazing keyboards both on Broadway and on the national tour. Darren has a voice that pulls you in with a natural ease that sounds so good it convinces you that even you should sing along, and when the emotional heights in a song are called for – he hits notes that soar from someplace you’ve been long ago into someplace you’ve never been before. Darren makes you realize that superior vocals are in fact a God-given gift, and he is one of the chosen few who prove that. For just a taste of what Darren can do with a song, download “Galway to Graceland” and “Cavan Girl.”

For more information visit www.thehighkings.com.

Download these from The High Kings album “The High Kings”:

“Galway to Graceland”
“The Black Velvet Band”
“Marie’s Wedding”
“The Wild Rover (live)”

Download these from The High Kings album “Memory Lane”:
“Cavan Girl”
“Red Is The Rose”
“Leaving Of Liverpool”
“Raglan Road”
“As I Roved Out”

EDITOR’S NOTE: “Ceol binn agus ruille buille” translated from Gaelic means ‘Sweet music and good times’. Happy St. Patty’s Day!



Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on March 21, 2010, 11:45PM
    
Fantastic High Kings Review - Munster Express
Category: Music
Review: The High Kings
By Liam Murphy. Published on Thursday, March 18th, 2010 at 1:11 pm

High on fame, high on the music, the craic, high on public acclaim, The High Kings packed out the Theatre Royal for a one-night return to the euphoria of the ballad session. To heck with recession, let’s have a session and what a rockin’ session it was. A night of great music, wild fancies, shut-eyed wans, come-all-yes, rowdy songs, rebel songs and sweet sad memories, rockin’ and rollin’ with Whiskey In The Jar and the anachronistic On The One Road.

This was polished entertainment, no rough edges, no long tuning; this was an Irish super group – a ballad and folk quartet of multi-talented, multi-instrumentalists.

With bottled water on stage not flowing pints, featuring a Mooncoin neighbour Darren Holden in powerful voice, Finbar Clancy of the famous family, Martin Furey of another legendary family and Brian Dunphy, a son of a showband hero. They gave us a great night out, a dash of nostalgia, some Clancy Brothers, some Dubliners, a lash of Wolfe Tones, a hush of the Voice Squad and great harmonies that Crosby, Stills and Nash would be proud of.

They ran out on stage and opened with Step It Out Mary and an amped-up bodhran and a drum pad to amp-up the foot on the floor taps.

The Fields of Glory – where boys become men changed into Cavan Girl with The Black Velvet Band, shining like diamonds lots of energy, attack and exuberance for Rocky Road to Dublin and Martin Furey hushed the house with Raglan Road.

An acapella The Auld Triangle slipped into a sweet, sensitive Fields of Athenry, full of beautiful harmonies. A Liam Clancy style The Rising of the Moon closed the first half.

A long interval suited the audience in need of cool air and cool refreshment and you could bring drinks into the auditorium (The Barn Bows to Booze).

Red is the Rose and Willie McBride opened the second half as the mood got more clappy with a clever hand clapping routine for a lilting Little Beggar Man.

This band showed their pedigree with such musicianship and vocal skill for Is A Eirne and a haunting Boolavogue before Darren Holden rocked the place into The Leaving of Liverpool and the party was in full happy swing. Five happy girls in the front of the balcony were a cheer leading section, carefree and rockin’.

A Clancy medley was sad and nostalgic with a rousing salute to Liam and his brothers, not forgetting Tommy Makem, before the house rocked into On The One Road (Fintan O’Toole ate your heart out). The Irish Rover was a massive blast of a finale with a beautiful Parting Glass and a wild Whiskey In The Jar.

What a night, it really was, such a night.

Munster Express - High Kings review Theatre Royal Waterford


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on March 21, 2010, 11:46PM
    
Castlebar, Athlone.
Hey folks!

Just finished the show in Athlone, and what a night it was!

Brilliant audience and a great vibe which made the 2 hours fly by. Great stuff.

Castlebar was amazing as always, and huge thanks to the massive crowd for turning out to see us again.

Tomorrow we travel to Armagh to play the St Patricks Festival.  Its a very short 40 minute set for a change, which should be fun.

Then its on to Limerick for our third appearance at The University Concert Hall.

Hope you are all well. Talk to ya soon.

D


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on March 28, 2010, 06:51PM
    
High Kings - Kilkenny Advertiser article
..High Kings to pack out Langtons ballroom for sell out gig

Kilkenny Advertiser, March 26, 2010.

By Naoise Coogan


Kilkenny Advertiser

The High Kings need no introduction in County Kilkenny — their reputation precedes them, and no doubt their Kilkenny performance this weekend will be a lively affair with a packed audience.

With names like Furey, Clancy, Dunphy, and Holden, the audience has certain expectations, however the High Kings rise to the expectation with gusto, turfing out stunning versions of Ireland’s most-loved folk ballads and classic Irish tunes, many of which feature on their newest album Memory Lane.

Kilkenny is proud to have one of its own sons, Darren Holden, as part of the High Kings and Holden will be singing and playing traditional music on his home turf along with Brian Dunphy, Finbarr Clancy, and Martin Furey this Saturday night at Langtons.

Their debut album was produced by David Downes (Riverdance, Celtic Woman) and the live concert DVD, recorded over two nights at Ardmore Studios in Dublin, was directed by Declan Lowney (Celtic Woman) and produced by Ned O Hanlon (U2).

Both were released in the US, and within three weeks of release the album broke into the Billboard Top 200 at No 154, and went to No 2 on both the Billboard World Chart and Billboard’s Heatseekers, as the week’s highest climber.

The High Kings gained fans in their thousands as they toured the US with Celtic Woman in April and May 2008. They returned home to Ireland in June for their own sold out Irish tour, performing to some 30,000 people with a fantastic response from both the fans and the critics. It was then back to America to prepare for their headlining tour of the US. They made a whistle stop return to Ireland on Sept 7 to perform ‘Fields of Glory’ at the All Ireland hurling final where Kilkenny was on the pitch in front of 82,000 hurling fanatics, before heading back across the pond to kick off the tour on Sept 9 in Baltimore.

In October they returned home to Ireland to embark on a second sold out 23-date Irish tour, receiving a phenomenal reaction from audiences at every show.

The full production show with the band was a huge success both sides of the Atlantic, but March 2009 saw a change in format as they presented audiences with their new ‘stripped bare’ show during a five-night run at The Olympia Theatre in Dublin. The new show was an overwhelming success, with the group playing all their own instruments.
As they have taken the show on the road, performing at various theatres and festivals around Ireland, they continue to be met by thunderous applause from sell out audiences at every venue. The group were thrilled to have been nominated as Best Newcomer and Best Folk Group at the IMA awards in Castlebar, and received a huge response from the crowd when they picked up both awards.

They play Langtons ballroom on Saturday March 27 at 8pm and tickets are €25.
HMV will also welcome The High Kings to HMV Kilkenny on Saturday March 27 at 12 noon at MacDonagh Junction where the group will perform an acoustic set and will also sign copies of their new album Memory Lane.



Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on March 28, 2010, 06:53PM
 Catching up.
Hey everyone!

Very late here in Sligo, but wanted to catch up before I hit the hay!

Sorry I have not been updating by the gig, but this tour has been so demanding on us, not that we are complaining!

All of the  shows have been as good, audience wise as the previous.
As I write this, we have just completed a 3 hour journey from my beloved Kilkenny to Sligo, where we have a HMV signing at 2pm tomorrow, followed by the show at 8.

Kilkenny, as always, was a massive night for me personally, and the lads helped make it very memorable. Huge, loud, and rowdy crowd, who were with us all the way.
Many family and friends there which is always cool

Great article is the "Kilkenny Advertiser"  this week also! Thanks to them for that!

We are nearing the end of our most successful Irish tour to date, with only 4 shows remaining. Crazy!

Hope to check in soon with you all!!


Take care,

DH.


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on April 18, 2010, 10:42PM
Category: Music
..
THE HIGH KINGS Come To The Grand
Canal Theatre April 3





Monday, March 29, 2010; Posted: 01:03 PM - by BWW News Desk
THE HIGH KINGS: Finbarr Clancy, Brian Dunphy, Martin Furey & Darren Holden set to play one night only  at The Grand Canal Theatre on Easter Saturday 3rd April 2010 as part of their National Tour.
The High Kings are still in the National Charts and had the only Irish Album Memory Lane in the top ten for 3 weeks.

The High Kings will Tour the UK in September 2010 USA in October and November and then Australia. The High Kings will be announcing the international release of Memory Lane in September

The High Kings are currently on a 25 date Irish tour with dates including Grand Canal Theatre, Dublin, INEC Killarney, Royal Theatre Castlebar and Cork Opera House.

The High Kings have had rave reviews for their Nationwide tour so far, including Killarney, Castlebar, Waterford, Athlone and Kilkenny.

Platinum selling The High Kings have now signed to Universal Music Ireland and their 2nd CD MEMORY LANE is now available. This new album, the second CD for The High Kings, has enjoyed severAl Weeks in the top ten Irish charts and follows their hugely successful debut self titled album and features a modern take on classic Irish Ballads like 'Step it out Mary' and 'On the One Road'.

The High Kings are currently on a 25 date Irish tour. Following on from their 2 previous sold out tours 2010 this tour takes in Galway, Tullamore, Drogheda, Wexford, Offaly, Monasterevin, Cork, Thurles, Waterford, Ennis, Killarney, Derry, Wicklow, Castlebar, Athlone, Armagh, Limerick, Enniscorthy, Castleblayney, Kilkenny, Sligo, Letterkenny, the Grand Canal Theatre Dublin and Carrick-On-Suir. (Full tour dates below) In this new show, The High Kings showcase their incredible versatility and skills as multi-instrumentalists and will perform songs from their highly anticipated new album. The group will also be touring the UK, US and Europe throughout 2010.

Tracks on the much anticipated new CD include: Step it out Mary, As I Roved Out, The Fields of Athenry, Raglan Road, Whiskey In The Jar, Leaving of Liverpool, Red is The Rose, Star Of The County Down, Boolavogue, Cavan Girl, The Rising of the Moon, Green Fields of France, The Irish Rover.

The High Kings also recorded On the One Road with the Wolfe Tones and this is available as a download single on itunes and other digital platforms with all proceeds going to the GOAL Haiti earthquake fund.

Tickets now on sale.

www.thehighkings.com

www.mcd.ie


ORIGINAL BROADWAY WORLD ARTICLE


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on April 18, 2010, 10:43PM
    
Happy Easter Everyone!
Hey everyone,

Just wanted to stop in to wish you all a Happy Easter!

Have a great weekend and enjoy your family time.

Letterkenny last night was a fantastic show with another amazing crowd! This tour is by far the most successful to  date for HK. One thing that has become apparent to us, is that young kids are really into the group this time round, and that is where the future of HK and the future of Irish Folk music lies. Very encouraging.
There are some exciting developments in the pipeline for the Fall, I will reveal more when I can.

Tomorrow night is the big one, the one we have being gearing up for, and our official end to the tour, not forgetting Carrick on Suir on Sunday.
 "The Grand Canal Theatre"   Ireland's newest state of the art theatre.
Universal Records will be out in force as will many friends within and out of the industry.

Hopefully, we will rock their socks off and give everyone a night to remember!

Take care,

Talk to you all soon.

Darren.


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on April 18, 2010, 10:43PM
    
Waterford Today Press article
Category: Music
Sharon Shannon and The High Kings to headline 16th Feile na nDéise 2010

   
   
   

sharon_shannon.jpg
The programme for 16th Féile na nDéise promises something to suit all tastes and ages. Headlinin a full, exciting and star filled programme will be two of the most popular acts in traditional music today, the long established Sharon Shannon and the more recent entrants to the circuit, the High Kings.

Both come with well established reputations for an excellent programme of music and song and both will draw large crowds to their respective venues.

Details of the programme with the two headline acts were announced by Feile supremo, John McGrath, who appeared last week with Sean Murphy (Bachelors in Trouble) on Ian Dempsey's Breakfast Show on Today FM.

On Thursday 29th April, Sharon Shannon will appear in concert in The Town Hall Theatre after the Official Opening of festival with "Micheál Ó Muircheartaigh"
Patrún na Féile. Sharon has a particular appeal across the board, and is truly the darling of the trad music fraternity.

Best known for her work with the button accordion and her violin fiddle technique, Sharon has also played the tin whistle. Her 1991 album 'Sharon Shannon'is the best selling album of traditional Irish music ever released in Ireland. Beginning with Irish folk music, her work demonstrates a wide-ranging number of musical influences, including reggae, cajun music, Portuguese music, and French Canadian music. She won the life time achievement award at the 2009 Meteor Awards.

On Sunday, it will all happen again at The Town Park overlooking the Bay, when there will be 'ceol, craic agus cultur'so Phairc Cois Mara.

The Park will surely resound to the 'beat of the bodhran'and the lusty voices of 'The High Kings', a group which has taken the Irish entertainment scene by storm over the last few years. The group made their high profile debut in 2008 and comprise Finbarr Clancy, Martin Furey, Brian Dunphy, and Darren
Holden, renowned vocalists and musicians, the finest group of performers who have come together since the previous generation clapped and sang with The Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem during the worldwide folk revival of the 1960s.

The High Kings will play a two hour Open Air Concert at The Lookout on Sunday afternoon, starting at 3.30pm, which should send the blood racing among what is guaranteed to be a major crowd.

On Saturday afternoon, there will be an Open Air Concert with Mattie & Paula Weldon in Grattan Square. This talented father and daughter combo have universal appeal to go with their super talent.

That night at 8pm in The Town Hall Theatre, The Déise Singers and visiting Welsh Choir will provide an evening of choral music which promises to be special.

From 2pm-3.30pm there will be Open Air Music featuring Mattie & Paula Weldon, with a Variety Of Family Entertainment as well. This will include The Wobbly Circus – Featuring Stilt Walkers, Paul Wheel - Comedy 'Rideabout'act on a penny farthing bicycle, including new rocket balloons & juggling.

Kate Bow, a unique colourful stilt walker performing poi spinning tricks.
There will also be a Flea Circus from Pignut Productions (Children Theatre Company) as well as Bouncy Castles

This is just a taste of what the Feile Committee has in store this year. The full programme is about to be released and it guarantees something for everyone in Feile 2010.

Waterford Today Article


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on April 18, 2010, 10:43PM
    
High Kings go into 8th week in TOP 20
Hey Everyone,

Chilling out at home today, doing a bit of gardening and making the most of this beautiful day.
Just wanted to check in and let you know that The High Kings have reached a milestone, in that "Memory Lane" is still at number 14, and still in the Top 20 after 8 weeks!!
Thanks so much to everyone who made this happen for us.

The tour finished last weekend and we are enjoying some downtime 'til the festivals and summer gigs start to come in.

Have a great weekend!

Darren.


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on April 18, 2010, 10:44PM
    
YouTube - New 'Video of the Week' feature
Category: Music
Darren will be uploading footage of his early career to YouTube as a brand new 'Video of the Week feature. The initial weeks will cover his performances at a song contest in Moscow as well as his time in Rhythm of the Dance and Riverdance.

The first few weeks will feature his performances at the Graddus Ad Parnasum Song Festival (Stairway to Stardom) in Moscow, back in October 1994. This invitation followed his second place in the Eurovision selection show 'Song For Ireland' where he sang his own composition 'After Tonight'.

He went on the win 1st Prize and $10k, which led him to go back and subsequently tour with Paul Young and Bonnie Tyler.

Please make sure you stop by Darren's Official YouTube to catch up with all you have missed in Darren's career, from his early career, Movin' Out, right through to the High Kings and recent solo performances.

Darren's Official YouTube

Here is the first 'Video of the Week' with Darren performing 'What Could Have Been' to kick things off!
http://www.youtube.com/user/darrenholden72#p/c/17E8666564323311/1/U4NaD-lMcoI


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on April 18, 2010, 10:46PM
    
Review of new Broadway show "Come Fly Away"
By Richard OuzounianTheatre Critic
NEW YORK—“Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee” was always Cassius Clay’s motto, not Frank Sinatra’s.
But I think that if Ol’ Blue Eyes had ever had a chance to see what Twyla Tharp does in her latest piece of dance theatre,Come Fly Away, he would have adopted it in a second, because this sophisticated work combines Sinatra’s songs and Tharp’s choreography in a way that manages to shed inspiring light on both the pleasure and pain to be found in human relationships.
Tharp has always loved the shotgun marriage of pop music and modern dance, having set works to the Beach Boys and their ilk, but it wasn’t until she created Movin’ Out in 2002 that her mash-ups went mainstream.
Taking the songs of Billy Joel, a strong live-music element, a corps of superb dancers and a story in which the war in Vietnam destroyed the personal lives of a bunch of average Americans, she created a theatrical powerhouse.
Her attempt to make lightning strike twice with the works of Bob Dylan in a 2006 show called The Times They Are A-Changin’ was a sorry mistake and so the knives were out for Come Fly Away.
They needn’t have been. It’s a solid piece of work that frequently enchants and delights, but it doesn’t have either the narrative force or the emotional underpinning that made Movin’ Outsuch a hit.
There’s an odd mix this time around. We hear Sinatra’s recorded voice sing the songs (sometimes joined by onstage vocalist Hilary Gardner), but the accompaniment is provided by a full live orchestra, playing along in perfect sync with the Sinatra recordings.
(A major shout-out, by the way to Canadian Peter McBoyle, longtime Stratford veteran, whose sound design mixes all these elements smoothly.)
Now I know that we don’t really want to hear anyone other than Sinatra (no, not even Michael Bublé), sing The Chairman’s songs, but denying us the live performance energy that Darren Holden, for example, brought to Joel’s work in Movin’ Out leaves us with an evening that sometimes soars elegantly through the clouds, but never breaks through the sound barrier into space.
Tharp has come up with a “book” for this show, just like she did for the earlier ones and all of the dancers have character names. But it’s hard to find any real story, just a series of almost random couplings and uncouplings in a dance hall over the course of one evening.
Now that’s not to say that lightning doesn’t strike — and often — on the stage of the Marquis Theatre.
When John Selyea’s muscular body stretches against pressures of time and space in “September of My Years,” you feel the man’s inner pain.
Likewise, when Selyea and the sublime Holley Farmer go through their problematic mating dance in numbers like “Body and Soul” or “Teach Me Tonight,” it’s hot, hot, hot in the theatre.
And a finale in which “My Way” becomes the accompaniment for a series of ethereally paired dancers, each discovering serenity, makes you realize once again what a genius Tharp is.
No, Come Fly Away isn’t perfect. But like Sinatra himself liked to sing, “That’s Life.”


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on May 30, 2010, 11:57PM
    
2nd 'Video of the Week' now on YouTube
Category: Music
Hi Everyone

The second video of Darren competing at the Moscow song contest has now been added to YouTube.

http://blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.ListAll&friendId=134975287

Don't forget to drop back next week!

Enjoy!


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on May 30, 2010, 11:57PM
    
Holden/Steele track now available for Rockband
Category: Music
A while ago Darren was thrilled to announce that his songs, co-written with Bryan Steele, had been selected for the new Rockband game.

This week marks the release of 'Caught' and you can now purchase the track for your XBox on the following link. Please drop by and take a look.

Visit the Rockband website




Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on May 30, 2010, 11:57PM
    
Shanghai Expo Launch Night.
Hey everyone,

Things are going well on this end.

I am enjoying the time off, and writing quite a few new songs for various projects, more of which I will tell you about down the road.

Michelle and I don't always attend the various events we are asked to, but on Monday evening last, my friend Oliver,  who owns the  highly successful "Porterhouse" chain, asked us to the launch of 'Porterhouse' for the Expo in Shanghai this summer.
An amazing evening, with lots of friends in attendance, including the fantastic box player Liam O Connor, who asked me onstage with him during his set to sing a few songs.
The guys is a legend and very inspiring. We had a great night afterwards, and Michelle and I had great chat with The Chinese ambassador to Ireland!

The track I wrote with Bryan Steele, "Caught" is now on Rockband and actually appearing on various You Tube accounts worldwide, which is mind blowing really.
I actually remember writing that song with Bryan in Fort Worth TX one scorching afternoon.

The HK are back on the road this coming Sunday, when we headline Felie na Deise in Dungarvan, Waterford. Looking forward to hitting the stage again.

Hope you are all doing well, and I will speak to ya soon.

Take care,

Darren.


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on May 30, 2010, 11:58PM
    
NEWSFLASH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
High Kings Release Remix The Great Craic
"STEP IT OUT MARY"


Platinum selling artists Finbarr Clancy, Brian Dunphy, Darren Holden and Martin Furey of The High Kings introduce the Great Craic remix of "Step It Out Mary" from their current chart album "Memory Lane."  More information at www.thehighkings.com

Platinum selling artists The High Kings (Universal Music Ireland) introduce The Great Craic remix of the catchy, sing-a-long “Step It Out Mary” from their current chart album “Memory Lane”.

MEMORY LANE, their 2nd studio album on which The High Kings show their incredible versatility and skills as multi-instrumentalists, has spent many weeks in the Irish Charts.

The band has just completed a SELL-OUT 25 date Irish tour and will commence Summer performances from 2 May 2010 (details and dates to be announced).

On the live circuit, Step it out Mary has proven to be one of the most popular tracks from the album. Tracks include: As I Roved Out, The Fields of Athenry, On The One Road (featuring The Wolfe Tones), Raglan Road, Whiskey In The Jar, Leaving of Liverpool, Red is The Rose, Star Of The County Down, Boolavogue, Cavan Girl, The Rising of the Moon, Green Fields of France and The Irish Rover.


broadwayworld.com article

 


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on May 30, 2010, 11:59PM
    
East Coast Life Interview
Category: Music
Darren and Martin were recently interviewed by Ciara Fitzgerald for Wicklow's East Coast Life magazine.

Page 1 http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v258/CarolB2/EastCoastLifeMay101640.jpg



Page 2 http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v258/CarolB2/EastCoastLifeMay102640.jpg




Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on May 31, 2010, 12:00AM
    
YouTube Video of the Week - Moscow Interview
Category: Music
This week's video of the Week is Darren being interviewed with an interpreter while in Moscow for the Graddus Ad Parnasum Song Festival in 1994.

As a little extra, we have also added Darren's second performance of After Tonight.

We hope you have enjoyed sharing Darren's time on Moscow. If you would like to buy the songs Darren performed in the videos, they are all avaialble on his Suddenly album.

http://blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.ListAll&friendId=134975287

Click to buy Darren's album - Suddenly

Don't forget to drop by next week when we will be turning the clock forward to 1999 with the first of 4 performances of Darren in Rhythm of the Dance.







Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on May 31, 2010, 12:01AM
    
Solo Show at the prestigious K Club.
Hey there everyone!

Hope you are all doing well.

Wow, I am still recovering from an incredible night last night at The majestic K Club golf course in County Kildare.

The Marie Keating foundation, Ronnie Whelan Charity and Autism Action Ireland hosted a golf day in aid of all three charities, and my good friend Keith Duffy asked me to provide the entertainment on the night.
Ronans brother Gary was on hand to help me get sorted and big thanks to him for that.

So many friends and famous faces there on the night including Ronnie Whelan, Ray Houghton, Johnny Giles, DJ Carey, and countless people from the world of TV and Radio.
 Great to catch up with everyone and indeed get back to performing with my piano in front of a great crowd who were certainly uo for it!
I performed some Billy Joel/Elton John/Beatles/Stones and by the time I wrapped up a 45 minute set, I was absolutely drenched. hah!
The coolest thing was, Ronnie Whelan leading a standing ovation for me! He would have been a hero of mine growing up and that will be  moment that will stay with me for quite some time.

Loved it, and I could certainly do it again in such an elegant setting.
The one drawback of the day was that I had to turn  down an invitation from Brian Ormonde to play on his team due to a prior commitment.
Wow, imagine palying on a Ryder Cup Course!!!

Tomorrow, the HK play Ballyliffin in co Donegal to an already sold out crowd.

These days are good, and I'm loving every minute of it.

Have a great weekend.

Catch you soon,

Darren.


Title: Re: Darren's Blog
Post by: jillebeans on May 31, 2010, 12:01AM
    
Hello!
Hey everyone.

Hope you are all doing well.

Sorry I haven't blogged in a while, been busy with a few projects and indeed numerous concerts with The High Kings.

As you are all aware by now, HK have been confirmed to play' OXEGEN'!  Europe biggest music festival.  I am so looking forward to performing with the lads at this gig, as we will share the festival with some of the worlds biggest and best acts!

Tonight we are heading to Gorey co Wexford to play the last show before we take a months off to recharge the batteries in preparation for a marathon os shows in July and August and an onslaught on the UK in September!

Please feel free to bombard Mike Harding at  BBC Radio 2, and ask him to include Memory Lane on his playlist in the run up to Sept.

Hope you are all having a great summer.

I will check in with you asap.

Darren.