FORTY years of showbiz memories are featured on the new CD from Cork man Pat Lynch.

The Bantry native, who retired from the showband scene in 1975, has just re-issued for the first time on CD the original recordings of 24 songs from back the years.

Pat fronted the Clipper Carlton for a time in 1964 and early '65 before joining the Airchords. He recorded his first single, Noreen Bawn, in that year but it never made it in to the public domain. Now, 40 years on, it is included in the new compilation.

He scored his first chart success in 1966 with The Leaving of Liverpool. The following year saw him hit the jackpot with two hugely successful records, The Irish Soldier which reached No.3 and Treat My Daughter Kindly which spent four weeks at No.1.

In 1968, he entered the National Song Contest with a number called Kinsale. It was arranged by Johnny Tate and to this day remains a special favourite with many of that generation. It is among the songs included on the new release.

Pat said: "It was around 1970 that I recorded Hush A Bye Bye. This track will always hold a special place in my heart as my reluctant five year old daughter accompanied me on this up-tempo lullaby. A song my grandchildren now sing for me."

When We Were Young was the song that took Pat to the top of the charts for the second time. He was working with the Airchords in 1971.

"Originally, the lead guitarist in the band, Fergie Burke, was going to sing the track but, before we got to record it, the band had gone its separate ways and so I ended up recording this song as a solo artist. It stayed at the top for six weeks while I searched for another band.

"Most of the songs were arranged by my great friends, Jack Bayle and Noel Keelehan and all have a story to tell. I am sure many who hear them again will have memories of their own."

Pat acknowledges the special contribution made by Eddie and Peggy Kelly in Longford to the issue of the current CD.

"Without their input, many of these tracks would have been lost in the sands of time. I would also like to acknowledge all the musicians, technicians, and producers I worked with over the years.

"A special mention has to go to Liam Hurley who, as the musical director for the Airchords in the early days, was a major influence in the success of the band."

WHEN WE WERE YOUNG is sure to find favour with many who remember Pat from the 1965 to 1975 era. Songs from the album look set to become firm favourites all over again for the genial Cork man.

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