Majella Yorston is delighted to announce the release of her long-awaited new EP “Majella” featuring a selection of her personal favourite Country music songs. Favourites such as Dixie Road, Majella’s first single release, written by Don Goodman, Mary Ann Kennedy and Pam Rose. Recorded by Lee Greenwood. It went to number 1 in America in 1985; You’re My Best Friend written by Wayland Holyfield and recorded by American country music star Don Williams. The song was the second No 1 hit for Don Williams on the Billboard Hot Country Singles Chart reaching No 1 in 1975 and also reaching the UK Top 40; and Half of My Mistakes written by Radney Foster and Bobby Houck. The song was inspired by the words of Benjamin Disraeli the British Prime Minister 1868 and 1874.
“I’m inspired by songs which tell stories and the best songs for this have roots in Country and Folk music” Majella said. “Most of them are already familiar to many and I hope that by introducing them to a new, younger demographic, they’ll find new fans too.”
Majella is that rare breed of talent that was born into an Irish family, with roots in County Derry, Northern Ireland where music was an important part of family life. The family formed a band and subsequently performed under the name of Majella and the Derry Airs.
Her father Harry Hetherington played piano key accordion, her mother Christina Hetherington played bass guitar, her Uncle Joseph played drums and her sister Dawn Hetherington also a vocalist played guitar. Majella was lead vocalist for the band and also played guitar. They performed Country, Folk, Rock & Roll, Ballads and traditional Irish music and toured widely.
As well as performing their own shows, the family band (managed by Harry), went on to support an array of Irish talent including Big Tom (regarded as the King), Dermot O’Brien, Brendan Shine, Dermot Hegarty Roly Daniels and Johnny McEvoy. Many of whom continue to tour. The success of the band led to Majella and Dawn releasing their debut album “We Should Be Together” on Ringtone records and it featured a song penned by Majella “I Am A Travelling Man.”
Every member of her family has a talent for music and it is a heritage clearly laid out in her forthcoming “Majella” a six track release showcasing her talent for telling stories through her interpretation of Irish and Country music songs most suited to her voice.
As a solo artist Majella has appeared in concert, cabaret and festivals and has worked with a number of artists including support for Chas and Dave.
Majella is multi-faceted. In addition she is an accomplished actress who has appeared on stage, TV and radio.
According to legend, St.Gerard Majella is the Patron Saint of Motherhood and Majella says being a Mum to her now grown up daughters is a role she absolutely loves.
“Majella” release date: 17th March 2020.
Price: £5.99
Record label: Dillon Records.
Critiques:
“Voice of an angel, heart of gold, book her, book her, book her!”Paul Kerensa, comedian and writerPaul is a regular writer for BBC television and radio comedy shows including Miranda and Not Going Out.
"It is always a pleasure to work with Majella. She is incredibly talented and everyone who hears her loves her music. If you are considering booking her for your event or function then absolutely DO."Nick Wyschna, Director, Guilford Fringe "Beautiful music and a beautiful lady - Majella really cares about her local community and has lent her considerable talents each year, to supporting local charities at our Music in the Meadow at Clandon Wood, as part of the Guildford Fringe Festival" Simon Ferrar Clandon Wood
“What a brilliant cd from Majella, a great mix of tracks. It’s a pleasure to play them on my show on Elite Radio” Glen Campbell, Presenter. “Majella weaves her way gently through this Country and Folk flavoured collection of songs. Dixie Road is the trail blazer and she renders a warm and evocative interpretation of this classic country song. Majella’s love for the folk scene is showcased with an endearing rendition of The Streets of London and Leaving on a Jet Plane. The love for music she acquired from her Derry parents shines through and she looks set to grace many a stage in the times ahead” Michael Commins Mid West Radio (Mayo) and The Michael Commins Show Sky 376 Spotlight channel
Notes for Editors: Majella holds a BA (Hons) Education and is a qualified Speech and Drama teacher (LLAM). She strongly believes in the benefits of music and drama and has extensive experience of working in the field of Education including Early Years, Primary and Secondary Schools, Colleges of Further Education and Community Theatre Projects. Majella has also worked with groups of adults with learning difficulties.