It is a week to remember for Laois referee Seamus (Shay) Mulhare, as his talents are shining both on and off the field.
The Heath official marked a major milestone in his growing musical journey with the release of his second song, a stirring rendition of David Gray’s Debauchery.
While also receiving one of the highest honours in local officiating with his appointment as referee for the Junior Football Final between Ballymacelligott and Clogher Éire Óg on Sunday in Croke Park.
It is a remarkable double achievement that underlines a brilliant week for Mulhare, showcasing his versatility, dedication and passion in two very different arenas.
The Heath native spoke to LaoisToday about what inspired him to release the cover and how his childhood memories keep pushing him towards the music industry.
He said: “I have always been involved with music in some form since I was a kid.
“My early memories are of trad and singing sessions in Offaly, which my Mam would bring me to.
“Her brother was heavily involved with Comhaltas down there at the time. He tours with The Furey’s now for the last 15 years or so as an accordion and whistle player.
“So, I have had a love of singing since then and have always enjoyed singing. Depending on the occasion.
“Then, I recorded an EP a few years back after my wife got me some vouchers for Golden Egg Studios.
“Covid put the release of the EP off, and I have been meaning to release it for a few years but kept putting it off because of my refereeing.
“I would be a big David Gray fan, and the album A Century Ends, which Debauchery comes from, is one of my favourites.”
Mulhare didn’t go on the journey alone and paid tribute with several people deserving credit for the culmination of this release; he also spoke about his experiences in the recording studio and what the future holds.
He said: “I have a voice that suits a certain key.
“The great Brian O’Mahoney who produced the track helped me in the studio the day we recorded it.
“He put me at ease, and it just flowed from there really. The instrumental parts of the track are all Brian.
“Lots of people helped. The main one was Brian O’Mahoney. I have known him a long number of years.
“He would call me up to sing with him in pubs over the years when he was playing a set.
“A great musical talent who currently fronts two amazing Laois bands Pogueology and The Outcast Crew.
“He has a lot of producing and digital skills, too, and if anyone is thinking of doing something like this, I highly recommend him.
“Kate Deegan who goes under the artistic name of Warmcans, is a very talented artist and friend. She animated the video for me.
“It was mastered by Richard Dowling in Wav mastering down in Limerick.
“I have none really. Hopefully release the EP later in the year after the inter county reffing season. A friend of mine was on to me to start an Amble tribute band.
“Not sure about that, but if there is any mandolin and guitar players out there want to give that a go, give me a shout.”
Away from the music studios Shay has put behind a difficult few months after enduring a serious back injury and is now set to officiate Junior Football Final between Ballymacelligott and Clogher Éire Óg on Sunday in Croke Park which is a massive honour.
He finished: “I have been out of action in reffing since I reffed the senior county final last year, with a back injury.
“I spent the last two months painstakingly rehabbing that, which wasn’t too easy.
“But I am very happy I took the time to get it right and after a very tough winter, I am looking forward to Sunday as I wasn’t expecting it, it is a huge responsibility and a massive honour.”
From the recording studio to the biggest stage of the junior football calendar, it was a week that perfectly captured his versatility and commitment.
You can listen to Shay’s new single below:
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