New ballad in memory of Martin McGuinness to debut on tribute night

The new song entitled ‘Where My Heart Will Always Be’ was composed by local man Paul McGilloway and is being performed by local singer Ciara McCafferty.

It will be aired at the finale of the tribute night to Martin McGuinness on what would have been the late Deputy First Minister’s 70th birthday.

The performances and tributes will be broadcast via Sinn Féin Ireland’s YouTube, Facebook and Twitter pages from 7pm tomorrow.

A host of major artists and well-known figures have been lined up for the live event, entitled ‘Remembering Martin McGuinness on his 70th Birthday - an Evening of Stories, Song & Music’.

Christy Moore, Matt Molloy and Damien Dempsey are among the artists to feature alongside other leading figures in music and in politics.

Sinn Féin Vice-President Mr McGuinness passed away on March 21, 2017 following a short battle with a rare heart condition.

This weekend’s event has been organised by the Martin McGuinness Peace Foundation, whose spokesperson Paul Kavanagh said it would be a special and poignant tribute.

He said earlier this week: “Obviously the way many of us carry out events of remembrance and celebration have had to change because of the Covid-19 crisis, and we are no different. The Chieftains Walk, which is also organised in memory of Martin, had to be postponed but I know the organising committee are very grateful to everyone who continues to register to take part when the walk is rescheduled.

“Similarly, we have rethought how we intend to mark what would have been Martin’s 70th birthday on May 23. I am delighted to confirm that we will now be holding a very special and poignant night of music, tribute and recollection,which will be streamed online.

“The event will feature musical performances from huge acts including Christy Moore and Damien Dempsey, New York singer Mary Courtney, acclaimed flautist Matt Molloy and a very special rendition from Martin’s granddaughter Cara McGuinness.

“A host of other talented performers from Derry and further afield will also be taking part in what promises to be an incredible line-up.”

Mr McGuinness’ widow, Bernie, in today’s Journal, pays a personal tribute to her ‘soulmate’ on his birthday and shares some photos from the family album. See pages 24 & 25.