Deep links to country music rooted in drink and death

Garth Brooks in action. Photo: Charles Sykes

Larissa Nolan

A friend of mine moved from Texas to Wicklow as a child. He didn’t realise he’d changed country for years – he was on a chicken farm in Avoca, and everyone listened to Charley Pride.

I was reminded of that story this week when Garth Brooks made his triumphant return to Ireland. It explains the connection those of us from outside the capital have with the country superstar, and with country music itself.