At First She Failed But Her Irish Roots Saved Her
Sharyn Ward: An Irish Traveller's Journey to Musical Stardom
In a moment that will be remembered by many, Sharyn Ward, a proud Irish Traveller, left the crowd in awe with her rendition of a traditional Irish song during her audition. Her performance resonated deeply with the audience, evoking a sense of cultural pride and emotional connection.
Sharyn's journey to the spotlight began quite unexpectedly when TV presenter Lucy Kennedy visited a Traveller's campsite for a different reality TV show. During her visit, Lucy had the opportunity to hear Sharyn sing for the first time. It was a moment of revelation; Lucy was immediately struck by Sharyn's exceptional talent and knew she had discovered a hidden gem. She believed that with the right platform, Sharyn could emerge as a formidable contestant in any musical competition.
When Sharyn took the stage for the initial round of the competition, she chose to perform Ben E. King's "Stand by Me." Her powerful, crystal-clear voice captivated the judges and audience alike. There was a palpable sense of excitement in the air as she sang, her voice filled with both strength and vulnerability.
It was after this stunning performance that judge Louis Walsh, intrigued by her background, asked if she ever sang Irish traditional songs. Sharyn's eyes lit up as she nodded and began to sing Finbar Furey's "Sweet Sixteen." The transformation was instantaneous and profound. Her rendition of the traditional Irish melody was nothing short of mesmerising, and it left not only Louis Walsh but also the other three judges—Michelle Visage, Jason Byrne, and Denise Van Outen—completely blown away.
Louis Walsh's instinct had proven correct; Sharyn's voice was indeed a perfect fit for Irish traditional music. Her performance was not just a display of vocal talent but a poignant reminder of her rich cultural heritage. It struck a chord with everyone present, leaving the audience with goosebumps and a newfound appreciation for the beauty of Irish Trad.
Sharyn Ward's rise to fame is a testament to the power of music and the enduring spirit of the Irish Traveller community. Her story serves as an inspiration to many, showing that with determination and a bit of serendipity, dreams can indeed come true.