Local artist honoured in London for lifetime contribution to country music

In her teens, Eileen, moved to Ballymena where she joined the Ballymena-based band ‘Country Express’ where Eileen lived and worked during those early stages of her musical journey, which became her springboard towards the bright city lights to seek fame.

It’s long way from Ballymena to Tennessee, and that’s where stardom next landed a young Eileen King, where she performed with many of the top county greats including Tammy Wynnette, Don Williams and Johnny Cash. She also recorded in Nashville, which lead to Eileen remaining in the Irish Charts for 26 weeks with her massive hit ‘Beautiful Brown Eyes’.

Recently Eileen joined the stars from stage, screen and sport in London for the prestigious ‘Irish World’ 21st annual awards ceremony hosted by RTE sports anchorman Colm Murray.

Eileen received the ‘Lifetime Showbiz Award’ for her dedication to Country Music when she was flown over to receive the award, alongside fellow artists, Dana, Tommy Fleming, and the relaunched Miami Showband, just to name a few.

Ballymena fans will be in for a treat when Eileen appears in an All Star Gala Country Show in Cullybackey High School, on Wednesday, May 23.

Appearing with Eileen will be Gloria, who needs no introduction, just mention ‘One Day At A Time’ and that says it all,

Ballymoney Country star Kathy Kane, and Ballymena’s own Jason Kernohan, Also appearing will be Gary Gamble, Ireland’s top Daniel O’Donnell impersonator, a very funny guy who you won’t want to miss !

Tickets are now on sale and are available from Cameron’s, Broughshane Street and Partyzone, Greenvale Street, Ballymena, Spar & Cullybackey High School Reception, Eurospar, Portglenone, and also at Broughshane and Ahoghill Post Offices. For telephone bookings, phone 07740 53 12 14.