Niamh McGlinchey may be a name you've heard before, and if it isn't - I'd suggest you check her out!

The Lady from Lavey is living the dream; literally! She explains; "I have always been singing from as far back as I can remember and being a professional singer was always a dream. Then I suppose when people started to ask me to sing at functions and weddings I began to believe that I could maybe make a living out of it. Being paid for a hobby I love sounded like a pretty good career choice!"

She continued, "My first performances would have been in my early days at Scor na nOg competitions. I progressed on to singing at weddings and funerals then began gigging in bars until Nathan Carter asked me to support him."

After meeting Nathan, Niamh got involved in Glór Tíre about 3 years ago, where she competed against other country singers whilst being mentored by Carter himself.

"I'm a folk singer originally but Glor Tire encouraged me to learn country music and introduced me to other country artists. It also introduced me to a brand new audience and took my music down south."

She admits that she has plenty of inspirations.

"I love loads of artists in a range of musical genres including Willie Nelson, Alison Krauss, Cara Dillon, The High Kings, Dixie Chicks etc."

Personally speaking, I've always dreamt of making it as a singer too. There's only been two factors putting me off the idea:

1 - the thought of getting 'dolled' up several times a week and prancing about a stage in high heels

2 - the fact that I can't actually sing!

Niamh admits it isn't always easy.

"I think the lifestyle is harder for a female e.g. On tour and being away from home as men are more rough and ready!

This past while it doesn't seem to matter if you're male or female as long as your music is good people will support you. It's just great to see live music is on the rise again!"

She continued, "I think the most important things are to make your own mistakes and learn from them and also to record some songs because it's easier for people to hear your music then through radio stations. Never sell yourself short because anything is possible with a bit of belief and dedication!

"I've had a few good achievements so it's hard to narrow it down to just one. I won an All-Ireland medal for my singing when I was just 16 and that gave me great confidence in myself. My TV appearances in "The All Ireland Talent Show" and "Glor Tire" and having several CDs to call my own.

Since starting off she's released an EP followed by three albums, the latest one being entitled 'At Long Last.' Here's hoping there's another one to come soon, and if you haven't heard her music before now - get to it! I guarentee you won't regret it.