Veteran singer songwriter Francie Conway has released his new song, Hit by a Hurricane. We asked him the BIG questions . . .
Francie began his recording career with RCA Records and has hits with track such as . To The Edge Of Time, One Night In Amsterdam, Striking It Rich, Somewhere In Heaven, Walking On Seashells, and Peace, Love & Rock 'n’ Roll.
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Speaking about Hit By A Hurricane, he says, "This song was written and recorded at a time when peace was at risk, no-one could never imagine it would apply to the apocalyptic times we’re experiencing today."
Tell us three things about yourself . .
Originally from Tralee, lived in Amsterdam, Geneva and London, currently living in Dublin.
Started my professional career in London with RCA Records, had a few hits, including To The Edge Of Time, One Night In Amsterdam, artists covering my songs, plus many notable gigs, including Paleo Festival Switzerland where 4,000 were expected and 25,000 people turned up. Gave everything up for many years when my son Rory got meningitis, we came very close to losing him. Round two of my musical career started when David Richards producer with Queen, David Bowie called to invite me out to Queen's studio in Montreux, to write and record.
One of the founding members of the original Rock School in Ballyfermot, now called BCFE. Songwriting coach for many artists including Damien Dempsey, Mundy, Wallis Bird, Lisa O'Neill, Fiach Moriarty, Mickey Harte, Lucy Blue, Junior Brother plus many, many more...
How would you describe your music?
Rock music bringing the gift of Peace, the gift of Love and the gift of rock `n’ roll.
Who are your musical inspirations?
Bob Dylan - the greatest lyricist of our time. Rory Gallagher for breaking every rule in the book. Argent, an incredibly innovative band, who I had the honour of recording with in London. They say you should never meet your heroes but I guess I’ve played with a lot of mine.
What was the first gig you ever went to?
Skid Row in the youth club in Tralee, Gary Moore, Brush and Noel Bridgman. Noel joined me for some gigs years later
What was the first record you ever bought?
The Beatles, Abbey Road. It’s such an incredible collection of songs, sublime performances and a side two that brings dreams alive.
What’s your favourite song right now?
I'm For Gallipoli by Fiach Moriarty with Damien Dempsey. Such an incredible angle for a song, plus wonderful vocals.
Favourite lyric of all time?
John Lennon's Imagine, the world needs this song today more than ever.
If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be?
The Show Must Go On by Queen. Freddie, Brian, Roger, John and David Richards were on fire at this time in Montreux, helps us realise whatever life throws in our way, we must keep going.
Where can people find your music/more information?
I guess, online, or maybe your local police station...
Alan Corr
