THE ROYALTY of Irish folk, The Fureys, were in Belfast this week promoting their upcoming gig, but younger brother George also had some advice amidst the botched energy scandal that has been sweeping Stormont.
The Irish folk band initially consisted of four brothers from Dublin but inevitably there have been line-up changes over the years. Nevertheless founders George and Eddie Furey are hoping to bring the craic back to Belfast amidst the political uncertainty.
“I’m not really into politics, but if a member of the band doesn’t perform the song that they’re asked to then you say that’s terrible, they’re not doing what they’re meant be doing. I suppose it’s similar,” George commented.
“They need to keep the peace going and stop fighting like kids for the sake of the brilliant people of Belfast.”
Proving their Dublin charm is still going strong, eldest brother Eddie, now in his 70s continued: “We’ve said it many times, Belfast is a great city we always try to include it in our tours.
“Like any other place in Ireland it’s changed so much over the years, but it’s still a beautiful place that’s full of brilliant people – and great pubs!
“We will have a great time next month. We’ll be singing funny songs, sad songs and we’ll have the banter. We like to try something new in our shows, but we always play the hits – people want to hear them.”
“Belfast is like Dublin for us,” added George. “We’ve been coming up here for many years. It’s like a home from home.
“We’ve met an awful lot of friends here, we enjoy being on stage just as much as we enjoy the craic off it. If someone comes up to us it doesn’t matter if we know them, well have a yarn and that with them.”
During their 40 year career the brothers have done it all from topping the charts to playing in Carnegie Hall. So what is their secret as they prepare to celebrate four decades of success?
“People often ask me what the secret of our success was when they start up a band,” said George. “I just remind them never forget the people that helped you get there in the first place.”
The Fureys return to the Waterfront Hall on Saturday February 4. Tickets are available by contacting 02890334455.
