The Shape I’m In: Derek Ryan

DEREK Ryan believes in thanking fans for their support after a gig. But there are times when he finds it overwhelming, especially when faced with a crowd of more than 900, each person looking for their special moment with the Carlow singer-songwriter.

“I’m a shy, quiet person off stage. We do a meet and greet after every show and if there’s a big rush — I wouldn’t be comfortable with big crowds coming up,” says the 33-year-old, who got married last June.

But he’s not about to complain about his growing success.