First winner of RTE's The Voice of Ireland is taking Texas music scene by storm

Ever wondered what happened to the first person crowned winner of RTE’s The Voice Of Ireland?

Seven years later, Carlow man Pat Byrne is taking the Texas music scene by storm.

Named as artist of the month in The Austin American-Statesman, Pat (30), from the village of Borris, has been winning over new fans with his own songs and adaptations of Texas classics.

Speaking from Austin, the state capital, Byrne said: “I’m so honoured and thrilled to be named artist of the month.

“The last few years have been very challenging; but even more rewarding.

“I would love to get to the stage where it’s possible to sign with a big label. But I’m not chasing it. I just want to be able to make music, and for people to want to hear it.”

US music critic Peter Blackstock hailed Byrne as the next big thing stateside.

“The guess here is that he’ll be playing far larger rooms before long; he’s too good… to not reach his level,” he wrote.

Part-time music teacher Pat added that money is not his motivation.

“I’ve always found it fulfilling and rewarding to create music, and to follow the high that I get from performing,” he said.

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