BY RONAN McSHERRY

The accolades are rolling in for Eamon McCann, one of the most highly acclaimed singer/songwriters in Ireland. Nationally and internationally the Tyrone artist's unique talents are being recognised. He has been offered a record deal plus a tour of the USA and Australian from British and International Artists Management Ltd. Eamon is delighted with the idea of going on the American trail, "The prospect of the USA tour is very exciting. To have someone there taking an interest in me over here in Ireland is a quite an honour. It is a great boost considering how many musicians in America are trying to break through and get going. A tour would be fantastic and we'll see how it goes from there."

Early in his professional career the Creggan crooner became known as Ireland's Voice of Country because of his deep tones and pure country sounds. The country singer continues to go from strength to strength. Seven albums and several TV appearances and numerous music awards later his new album Lay You Down has soared to the top of the country album sales.

Eamon recently received the prestigious Country Music Award at Athlone. He said, "It was a great thrill to get that recognition. A lot of people in Ireland would be doing country and Irish music but very few playing pure country, so it was great to receive that award."

Just recently he joined forces with Omagh's new country star Helena Sherry to record the well known Johnny Cash and June Carter hit, Jackson. Last week it went on general release. Eamon said, "I really enjoyed working with Helena. The single is flying off the shelves and has proved very popular."

Eamon and his five piece band include tributes to Johnny Cash in their show. "The Johnny Cash numbers always go down a bomb. Recently we have been getting a lot of requests to play his music. He seems to cross the age barrier with his music and the country and he appealed to country and pop audiences. I perform a collection of Johnny Cash numbers every night and it is very popular. I hope in the future to do a tribute to Johnny Cash album."

Eamon has, to date, recorded 30 self-composed songs. These days he is flat out with recording and performing live music. It is a labour of love however as he says he is "really enjoying life and playing music with everything going really well."

You can hear Eamon with his band in Kelly's Inn, Garvaghy on Saturday, February 24, singing tracks from his top selling album along with his brilliant tributes to Johnny Cash, Charley Pride, Alan Jackson, George Jones and Neil Diamond.