Gilbert O’Sullivan was made a Freeman of Waterford City and County at a ceremony in City Hall on Wednesday, March 27. Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Joe Conway bestowed the honour on the Waterford born singer-songwriter whose career has spanned over five decades. Gilbert O’Sullivan and Mayor of Waterford City and County Cllr Joe Conway Cllr. Lola O’Sullivan formally proposed that the Freedom be conferred on Gilbert O’Sullivan, and the motion was seconded by Cllr. Joe Kelly. Born on December 1, 1946, on the Cork Road in the city, Gilbert’s family relocated to Wiltshire, and it was here that his musical journey began, playing the piano and honing his craft not through formal lessons, but playing by ear. Gilbert’s first single Nothing Rhymed was released in 1970, an overnight success featuring in the Top 10 music charts across the UK and Europe. His 1971 debut album Himself was littered with the most perfect examples of his art and craftsmanship. His second, 1972’s Back to Front, firmly cemented Gilbert amongst the world’s best, with Top 10 singles and No. 1’s around the world, including the classic Alone Again (Naturally) which topped the US charts for six weeks and earned him three Grammy nominations. British recognition soon followed with the songs Clair and Get Down reaching the summit of the UK singles charts and his LP Back to Front topping the album charts. In the same year at the 18th Ivor Novello Awards, Gilbert was named ‘Song Writer of the Year’. Mayor Conway said, “It is with great honour and pride that I, as the Mayor of Waterford City and County, extend a warm and heartfelt welcome to Gilbert O’Sullivan – a signal composer and performer from Waterford roots who has made an indelible mark on the world of modern music. “Personally, as a fan of his work for a half-century now, I regularly enjoy his Berry Vest compilation as I drive the miles here and there – my personal favourite being the very sparse and captivating Miss my love today, but I
'I am truly honoured' - Gilbert O’Sullivan granted Freedom of Waterford City and County
