Pat Byrne

     . . . hails from Borris, County Carlow, Ireland, southwest of Dublin.  In 2012 Byrne was crowned the winner of the inaugural series of The Voice of Ireland.  The win may have confirmed Pat's talents as a singer and interpreter of song but it was not an entirely satisfying experience.  Byrne was not sure he wanted to mold himself into a young Irish Bruce Springsteen.  Once his obligations to The Voice were complete, Pat began his migration to Texas.  He was fortunate to have made friends with Austinites who recommended he try his luck in the city.  In Austin Pat found himself in the company of musicians willing to help him build an image and craft music that was primarily his own.  He wisely also borrowed fom Texas legends, like Guy Clark.  In fact, Clark's "Dublin Blues" was added to his repertoire with a perfect nod to locations old and new.  

     In 2019 Pat decided to make Austin home.  It was also his year for breakout performances at 30A Festival, SXSW, The Kerrville Folk Festival, and the Americana Festival.  Being immersed in the Texas music scene, Pat's latest release, Into the Light, has an edgier feel underscoring both emotional depth and greater confidence, while also reflecting greater control of his artistry.  Pat has been a welcome addition to the Austin music scene.  As proof, he has been a frequent collaborator with other artists, both in the studio and on live performances.  He has had frequent residencies at the storied Saxon Pub, where he can be heard with his bank or with the Irish-inspired band, Ulla.