Music award for ‘living legend’ Gogan

A HOST of rock, pop, TV and radio stars turned out last night to honour one of the Irish music industry’s “living legends”, Larry Gogan, at a special function in Dublin.

The popular 2FM disc jockey was the star attraction of the evening as he became only the second person ever to be bestowed with the Irish Recorded Music Association (IRMA) honours.

Larry, who first started working in radio in the 1960s, joins Christy Moore in receiving one of the most distinguished accolades for people working in the industry.

President Mary McAleese said the award was a wonder recognition of the broadcasters’ “outstanding talent and magnificent contribution to Irish music.”

“Since 1961, Larry has inspired young and old alike with his enthusiasm and thoroughly professional brand of entertainment,” said Ms McAleese.

Included among a large number of household names present at the gala dinner was Terry Wogan, who flew in from London to present Larry with a specially-designed bronze sculpture by Tanya Nyegaard.

Terry pointed out that he is the only person to have provided more commentaries on the Eurovision Song Contest than Larry.

Music on the night included performances by Paul Brady and The Thrills, while an art auction had works by Graham Knuttel, Jim Fitzpatrick and Robert Ballagh on offer as part of the evening’s fundraising activities.

During the event, which was sponsored by Mastercard, several video tributes were paid by Irish artists including Ronan Keating, The Corrs, Moya Brennan and Westlife, who all credited Larry with playing a vital role in forwarding their careers.

“In the early 80s when there was no-one playing rock music in the afternoons, you were the exception. You still are an exception,” said U2 drummer, Larry Mullen.

Bob Geldof also described the DJ as one of the few champions of Irish broadcasting.

“In Ireland, there’s Gay Byrne and there’s Larry. These men had a profound effect,” he said.

In a moving acceptance speech, Larry thanked his many friends and colleagues in RTÉ and the wider music profession, as well as paying tribute to his late wife Florrie for her loyal support throughout the decades.

Proceeds from the night were distributed between Our Lady’s Hospital for Sick Children in Crumlin, The Chernobyl Children’s Project and the IRMA Trust.