Laois singer songwriter living in Australia releases song about pubs back home

A Laois singer songwriter who is now living in Australia, has released a new song all about his favorite Irish pubs back home, sure to hit a nerve with the Irish community down under.

Starting the year as he means to go on, 26-year-old Laois music artist Barry Deegan from Cullohill, has just released his first track of 2026, Every Irish Pub.

Barry who now lives in Melbourne, explains what makes this tune different to his previous releases.

“This song feels like a step closer to who I am as an artist right now. It’s probably the most Irish folk type song I’ve created and it should definitely be one that hits home”.

“It came to me reminiscing on great memories that I shared with my partner in Ireland. Now that I’m over in Australia looking back, it makes sense to release it. I’m more than excited to get it out there”, Barry continues.

“The chorus reflects on drinking Beamish out in Cork, then some nights out in Kilkenny, while also reflecting on my home in Laois in one of the verses. Basically a nostalgic looking back type of song I wrote while being over here in Melbourne, which I also mention in the song”, Barry reflects.

The artwork for Every Irish Pub by Barry Deegan

“A song basically about reminiscing on great times in Irish pubs, while being abroad over in Australia. in Cork city at valentines, singing Killeagh by Kingfishr a band which have been a great inspiration to my music, Reminiscing on our first in Kilkenny, mentioning my cousins great Irish pub O’Riadas, also A special mention to a local Decs Bar in Laois, etc. Produced
by Gavin Doyle, infused with top quality Irish folk instruments”.

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Barry has been gigging in Australia since the end of last year. He reflects on the past few months performing in Melbourne. 

“Melbourne’s been brilliant. The crowds really love the Irish songs, funnily enough even more so than a lot of bars I played back home, and there’s a real appreciation for live music here. It’s pushed me to grow as a performer, And now that I’ve moved to Sydney to do the same it’s given me a lot of confidence going into this year”.

Barry describes what makes an Irish Pub abroad stand out to him.

“For me, it’s the feeling not just the look. A great Irish pub abroad feels lived, great music and most importantly friendly staff. The pubs and the Guinness back home in Ireland is obviously in its own league, but when you’re out here and you miss home, the little things like Tayto crisps, Guinness that’s poured properly and when the music and the atmosphere’s right, you know
you’re in the right place”, Barry reminisces.

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One of Barry’s favourite pubs in Ireland is O’Riadas, located in Kilkenny. Barry mentions what he loves so much about the pub.

“O’Riadas is a classic Irish pub. Superb Guinness. Right in the heart of Kilkenny. Myself and my girlfriend have often called in for a pint and admired the old school pub. And of course the owners are a relation of mine”.

To follow Barry Deegan’s musical journey check out his socials, his Spotify is @Barrydeegan and his Instagram is @Barrydeeganmusic. You can listen to Barry’s latest release now on all streaming platforms.