Gerry O'Beirne has left an inimitable mark on the face of Irish music with his skills as a producer, musician, and songwriter. An ex-member of
Patrick Street, he acted as producer for the supergroup's Irish Times album and for numerous other albums by artists such as
Kevin Burke,
Martin O'Connor, and
Andy Stewart. As a guitarist, he performed with
Marianne Faithfull, played at the White House, and appeared as
the Grateful Dead's opening act. His songs have been recorded by Celtic artists
Mary Black and
Maura O'Connell, among others. The singer/songwriter also recorded as a solo artist. The magazine Performing Songwriter named his first release, Half Moon Bay, one of the top dozen independent records of 2000.
The self-taught guitarist is a native of Ireland's County Clare. His early years were divided between Ireland's western regions and Ghana. O'Beirne drew musical inspiration from these diverse locations, as well as from superstars of the day that included
the Beatles and
Bob Dylan. For a time he worked in London, where he purchased his first guitar. He eventually learned to play both the 12- and six-string varieties. After working in London, he headed home to Ireland, where traditional Irish music enticed him.
–
Linda Seida, Rovi