Music pulsed from Devlin Hall in Letterkenny today as talented local artists celebrated the launch of Over the West Radio.

Founded by Letterkenny singer-songwriter Maria McCormack, the online station offers a platform for emerging artists across the country.

“Our motto is ‘If You Create It, We Will Play It,'” says Maria.

The idea for an independent station blossomed in 2021, she said.

“I was fed up with so many people locally who weren’t getting their music played on radio stations.

“Instead of trying to email DJs, let’s create something for everybody,” Maria said.

Frankie McCreevy and Maria McCormack with Laura May and Tara Bridget McCreevy at the Over the West Artist Platform and Radio Launch Party

Maria Mc Cormack at the Over the West Artist Platform and Radio Launch Party

Maria heaped praise on the ‘family’ of 52 different artists from all corners of Ireland and all genres of music who have already entrusted their precious music to the playlists. Thirteen DJs make up the team behind the scenes.

The official launch this afternoon was a lively celebration of this supportive community. Over 20 acts took the stage, showcasing a flavour of the “ridiculous amount of talent” featured on the station, according to MC John Muldowney.

“There is so much unsigned amazing talent out there that is not getting any attention and now it is, which is down to Maria,” John said.

One of the youngest bands in Donegal had the honour of switching on the ‘On Air’ sign. Odyssey, which is made up of Rathmullan musicians Dylan Gallagher, Finlay Sheridan, Odhran McGinley and Tony Gallagher, also opened the showcase.

Odyssey band from Rathmullan opens the Over the West Artist Platform and Radio Launch Party

A special tribute was paid to the late Paul Mooney who was involved with the station from its inception. Paul’s tragic passing in a road accident in December has left a void across the local music scene and he was fondly remembered today as a wonderful musician, producer and friend.

“We had great plans for the future,” Maria said, sending love to Paul, whose jingle can now be heard every day on the station.

John Muldowney, Stephen McCollum and Franck Saucian at the Over the West Artist Platform and Radio Launch Party

Listeners can download the Over the West Radio app now to begin listening and supporting. “Start the ripple effect today and start making big waves,” Maria encourages everyone.

For more, check out: https://linktr.ee/overthewestonlineradio

See more photos here on Donegal Daily:

Frankie, Maria and family with the Wynne girls at the Over the West Artist Platform and Radio Launch Party

at the Over the West Artist Platform and Radio Launch Party

Mickey and Luke Duffy at the Over the West Artist Platform and Radio Launch Party

at the Over the West Artist Platform and Radio Launch Party

Gary Graham and Shirley Graham from Bangor FM at the Over the West Artist Platform and Radio Launch Party

Jennifer McGee, Maria McCormack and Laura May at the Over the West Artist Platform and Radio Launch Party

Artists Kevin Gallagher and Kevin Gallagher at the Over the West Artist Platform and Radio Launch Party

Colette Clinton and Mary Dunne at the Over the West Artist Platform and Radio Launch Party

Shauna Scanlon and Aaron McCormack at the Over the West Artist Platform and Radio Launch Party

Maeve Brady and Jenna McCormack at the Over the West Artist Platform and Radio Launch Party

Shaun Doogan and Paul Rodgers at the Over the West Artist Platform and Radio Launch Party

Andrii Kotkovets and Maria Mc Cormack at the Over the West Artist Platform and Radio Launch Party

Cllr Liam Doherty, Frankie Mc Creevy with baby Tara Bridget and Deputy Padraig Mac Lochlainn at the Over the West Artist Platform and Radio Launch Party