RTE Behind The Music – Emer Dunne
Laois singer Emer Dunne releases the first single, ‘Daisy‘, this Friday, with all proceeds from the song going to the Irish Cancer Society’s Daffodil Day. We asked Emer the BIG questions . . .
She has recently finished recording her new album Hourglass, on which she worked with Bill Shanley, who has previously worked with Mary Black, Paul Brady, Sinead O Connor, and Gilbert O’Sullivan.
“Bill was my producer/guitarist and backing vocalist. I was fortunate to have a host of wonderful musicians and engineers to work on my album with me. I am excited to get it out there now.” says Emer, who has played support shows for the likes of Phil Coulter, The Fureys, The Irish Tenors, Frankie Gavin, Mick Hanley, John Spillane, and The Celtic Tenors.
Tell us three things about yourself?
I’m from and currently based in County Laois and singing since I could talk. Alongside music, I love drama and acting, and I think this creative aspect can combine with my music and writing.
I was fortunate to be contacted by Leonard Cohen’s management team commending my version of his famous song Hallelujah. They said it was one of their most favourite cover versions of the song, and, needless-to-say, I was thrilled with their comments.
I love meeting new people, travel and helping others.
How would you describe your music?
I am a singer of songs and I guess I don’t like to confine myself to only one box. However, my roots are embedded in folk music. I sang and danced with an Irish dance troupe across Europe and Japan and love performing Irish music and ballads.
