Mandy set to launch singing career

Local Tesco worker Mandy McCullough will be launching her singing career with a special concert next Tuesday night, November 22.

Originally from Ballee but now living in Broughshane, Mandy’s had a keen interest in singing for a number of years but it’s only within the last year she plucked up the courage to do something about it.

“I grew up with a musical background - my late dad had a band called ‘The Velvet’ and he has been my inspiration in life and in making my album,” Mandy said.

She added: “I was a daddy’s girl and that’s why I called the album ‘Forever Love’.”

The album reflects Mandy’s love of country music, and features 10 tracks including “Somewhere Down the Road”, “Wind Beneath My Wings”, and “What a Friend We Have in Jesus”.

Sadly Mandy’s father passed away before he could see his little girl launch her singing career but she has dedicated the track ‘Fly’ on her debut album in memory of him.

“I’m also dedicating ‘Forever Love’ to my best friend, my mum,” Mandy said.

She added: “If it wasn’t for her over the years, I wouldn’t have achieved what I have.

“A big thank you also to all my family and friends for all their support.”

Mandy will be performing tracks from ‘Forever Love’ at Tuesday night’s show in the Michelin Club.

The event starts at 8pm and joining Mandy on the night will be Tony Kerr and band, Justin McGurk, Cowboy Larry, Eugene O’Dornan, Paul McNeilly and Downtown Radio’s Warren Smyth.

“I would like thnak my new friend and producer Paul McNeilly for his experience and professional talent in recording this album for me,” Mandy said.

She added: “I would like to give a big thank you to my king of country music, Tony Kerr.

“Tony has helped guide me in the right direction in making my CD.

“Also a huge thanks to Justin McGurk - I’ve been a big fan of Justin’s for a long time and I love his music.

“Thank you both for taking time out of your busy schedules to duet with me.”

Mandy will make her debut performance at Tuesday night’s show and admits her Tesco co-workers have been hailing her as the new Tesco star, following on from Dublin Tesco worker Mary Byrne’s success on last year’s X Factor.

“They joke I’m going to be Tesco Mandy,” Mandy said.

Admission is £7.50, with proceeds from the event going to Parkinson’s. Copies of Mandy’s album will be available to buy on the night.