As Celeda famously sang, ‘Music is the answer’. For many people music forms an integral part of their daily lives. Here in Northern Ireland especially we always seem to be listening to music especially on the radio, and it is on this particular media platform that one young DJ is beginning to make quite the impression.
His name is Cormac McConvey, and he is a 17 year old DJ and radio presenter from Belfast who, despite his relatively young age, already has his own radio show on Bangor FM. ‘Bangor Fresh’ with Cormac airs every Thursday from 3-5pm and features the hottest tracks in the world right now, and interviews with up and coming artists in Northern Ireland.
He also DJs across the province, recently featuring on the bill for the Feile An Phobil Dance Night in August, which saw over 10,000 ravers flock to Falls Park for an incredible night of dance music, as well as playing at the Botanic Inn on Halloween night .
It’s fair to say that he has had quite a busy year so far, but he already has one eye on next year which is set to be his biggest yet. He has just announced his new radio show ‘Weekend Fresh’ which will air on both Lisburn and Bangor FM on a Saturday night from January.
I recently had the privilege of speaking to Cormac as the anticipation builds for his new show and here’s what the newest Northern Irish radio host and DJ had to say.
LMcC: So what can we expect from your new show starting?
C: A lot of energy! We are going to put loads of effort into the show to make it as fun and as upbeat as possible.
How did you get your break on the radio?
I’ve always had a dream and a passion to be on the radio. I started to make contacts in the industry early and it was just about getting involved as soon as possible.
What do you enjoy most about being on the radio?
Talking for sure. It’s weird sometimes when you realise you’re talking to more than just a microphone but people all around Bangor, Lisburn and people all around the world online. It may sound quite daunting but I really love what I do.
What are some of your favourite songs to play on the radio?
Definitely Martin Garrix tunes! There’s too many to choose from! It’s just a shame I can’t have a fully dedicated show, maybe in the future.
How did you get into DJing?
I started going around to youth clubs and birthdays with my neighbour, who was a DJ and I pressed the smoke machine button for him. I got such a buzz from it and after that I realised I had a passion.
How have you managed to break into the industry?
Making contacts! The more people you know in the industry the better.
How did you find performing at the Dance Night?
The dance night was super cool, its amazing to say I’ve played on the same stage as the legends that were there such as Bryan Kearney, Eddie Halliwell and Darren Styles.
What kind of music do you enjoy playing most in your set?
It depends! I love playing different styles depending on where I am. It could range from deep house to hiphop to hardstyle. Just whatever I’m feeling!
What DJS have inspired you?
Quite a few! Martin Garrix, Idris Elba, Camelphat and Hardwell, so many legends!
What is the best thing about DJing?
The crowd reaction! Dropping a tune everyone knows is so cool.
Remember to tune in to Cormac’s new show ‘ Weekend Fresh’ every Saturday from 6-8 starting on 4th January and airing on both Lisburn FM and Bangor FM.
