BRIAN Kennedy survived a childhood on Belfast’s infamous Falls Road during The Troubles to carve an extraordinary career in music. "I shouldn't have become a singer really, given where and how my life started, but my voice had other plans and saved me in the end." That voice changed the course of his life. He cut his live performance teeth busking on the often dangerous streets of Belfast before escaping to London at the tender age of 18. After more busking and living in squats Brian’s talent was recognized by Simon Fuller (Pop Idol, Annie Lennox, The Spice Girls).

Brian has worked extensively with Belfast legend Van Morrison, notably as guest lead singer on Van the Man’s Blues & Soul Revue. He ended up sharing vocal duties on stages across the globe over a six-year period with Morrison. During this time he performed with some legendary artists: Joni Mitchell, Bob Dylan, Ray Charles and John Lee Hooker to name but a few. Madison Square Gardens may be a far cry from the Falls Road, but Brian’s unique voice has harmonised with Van’s on five of his major albums.

Despite the demands of touring with Morrison, Brian has carved out a notable solo career. His albums A Better Man (1996) and Now That I Know What I Want (1999), both went platinum and earned him the awards of Irish Best Male Artist and Irish Best Male Album. Brian’s heart wrenching performance of You Raise Me Up at the funeral of football legend George Best earned him a spot in the top 5 of the UK charts. Recently Brian has been busy in the studio recording a double CD Essential Collection comprising all new recordings from the past and present, including a duet with Boy George.

Ever versatile, Kennedy has also featured as coach on The Voice of Ireland. Remarkably he has also found time to publish 2 novels. Over a 25 year career Brian you would think he has fulfilled all his dreams and goals but when asked what else is left for him to achieve, he answers playfully, " Ah sure I'm only getting started!"

Brian Kennedy will be playing live at Otley Courthouse on Sunday, November 19 at 8pm. Tickets are £17.

To book tickets visit www.otleycourthouse.org.uk, call our box office on 01943 467466 or pop into the Courthouse on Courthouse Street, Otley, LS21 3AN