Wilko Johnson, of the legendary rock band Dr. Feelgood, has been unveiled as the main act in 2014's Rory Gallagher International Tribute Festival. He joins a stellar line-up of over 20 acts, including a returning Bernie Marsden, former guitarist with Whitesnake - and huge Rory Gallagher fan.
Fans may be surprised at Wilko Johnson's appearance at the festival as he has sadly been battling cancer but he says, “I am delighted to have the opportunity to come to his birthplace and honour the great G-man. It's going to be a superb gig and I am really looking forward to playing at Rory Gallagher Festival 2014 in Ireland - going to be great!”
At the 2014 festival launch, chairperson Barry O'Neill said, 'This is without doubt the best line-up ever – Rory Gallagher would be honoured and chuffed. We are expecting our biggest attendances ever, this will be one of the most significant tributes to Rory and without doubt the biggest classic rock and rock-blues music festival on the island of Ireland in 2014.'
Other acts hitting the festival include Band of Friends featuring Rory Gallagher Band members Gerry McAvoy and Ted McKenna with renowned Dutch guitarist Marcel Scherpenzeel, Norman Roy-Watt (The Blockheads) Mungo Jerry featuring Ray Dorset, and Eric Bell - the original guitarist for Thin Lizzy - and his band, and many more national and international rockers.
The Rory Gallagher International Tribute Festival 2014 takes place in Ballyshannon, Co. Donegal from Thursday, 29th May and Sunday, 1st June.