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23 Oct 2025

Celebrating old Leitrim: John Gilheaney’s nostalgic new song

Wales-based singer John Gilheaney, soon to become a Carrigallen resident, celebrates Leitrim’s old days with his new song inspired by his ancestry.

Celebrating old Leitrim: John Gilheaney’s nostalgic new song

John Gilheaney, a journalist and aspiring singer based in Wales is set to release a heartfelt song inspired by his Leitrim heritage.

John’s father hails from Fenagh, where the video for his song, ‘The Photos on the Wall’ was filmed.

The video features stunning shots of Fenagh, along with cherished family photographs, creating a nostalgic journey to a simpler time before the conveniences of modern life.

"The lyrics to ‘The Photos On The Wall’ were inspired by old photographs I was framing for my Dad," John shared.

"Old family photos are a cherished link to the past. They make me dream of what Ireland was like from the '40s to the '60s and how so much has changed since then. 

"I'm fascinated by the pace of life today, how it has revved-up this century because of mobile phones and technology. I yearn for simpler, more relaxed times,” he added.

For John, living in Ireland has been a long-term dream, delayed by health challenges.

“I had cancer a few years ago, Whooping cough last summer, but I'm fighting fit now and raring to go at the ripe young age of 55,” he enthused.

Now, John is preparing to move to Carrigallen where he hopes to pursue his musical dreams.

“I am returning to the Land of My Fathers!”

‘The Photos on the Wall,’ is a single from John’s debut album titled ‘Going Out Tonight’ which will be released in Spring of this year.

"The video is a way of connecting with my ancestors both from Leitrim and my Mum's county of Mayo,” John explained.

"The video includes the famous Abbeys, the Selton Hill Memorial and treasured family photographs of my folks.

“It also features the wonderful Leitrim scenery which was made more beautiful by the lush Autumn sunshine we had during filming.”

John’s tribute to Leitrim, ‘The Photos on the Wall,’ will be officially released on Monday, January 6, with the video now available to watch on YouTube.

 

READ MORE: ALERT: Leitrim placed under Status Yellow ice warning as temperatures plunge

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