Talking With Paul Byrom

This week on the Talk About Las Vegas Podcast, host Ira Sternberg welcomes acclaimed Irish tenor Paul Byrom, who will be performing at Myron’s at The Smith Center on March 17. In this episode of Talk About Las Vegas With Ira, Paul shares insights into his extensive career in music, the release of his eighth studio album By Contrast, and how he has adapted to the evolving music industry. From his early beginnings as a young singer in Dublin to performing on St. Patrick’s Day in America, Paul Byrom’s journey is as captivating as his voice. He also touches on why he stays physically fit, the story behind "Guinness math," and his experience performing in Las Vegas for the first time.

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Paul Byrom: A Journey in Music

From Young Talent to Acclaimed Tenor

Paul Byrom's career began at a young age in Dublin, where his exceptional vocal talent was recognized early on. He recorded his first album, The Golden Voice of Paul Byrom, at just 14 years old, marking the start of a lifelong passion for music and recording. Paul’s early exposure to the recording studio set the stage for his future success as one of Ireland’s most beloved crossover tenors.

The Evolution of a Crossover Artist

Known for his versatility, Paul Byrom has consistently refused to be pigeonholed as a performer. His repertoire spans traditional Irish songs, pop standards, Broadway hits, and classical favorites, showcasing his ability to cross musical genres with ease. His first major album as a tenor, VELVET, released in 2005, was followed by his Christmas album, I’ll Be Home for Christmas, in 2008, both of which solidified his status as a leading figure in the music industry.

Paul Byrom’s Time with Celtic Thunder

Celtic Thunder: A Global Phenomenon

In 2007, Paul Byrom joined Celtic Thunder, an internationally renowned vocal group created by Phil Coulter. As one of the original soloists, Paul toured extensively across America, Canada, and Australia, contributing to six No. 1 World Billboard Chart albums with the group. His time with Celtic Thunder brought him widespread acclaim, and he performed on various international TV shows, including The Today Show. For fans of Celtic Thunder, this period in Paul’s career remains a highlight, cementing his place in the global music scene.

Leaving Celtic Thunder to Pursue a Solo Career

In 2010, Paul made the bold decision to leave Celtic Thunder and focus on his solo career. His album This is the Moment debuted at No. 1 on the World Billboard charts and was even shortlisted for a Grammy nomination. This marked the beginning of a successful solo journey that has seen Paul perform regularly across Ireland, North America, and Canada, delighting audiences with his powerful voice and engaging performances.

Paul Byrom’s Latest Work: By Contrast

A New Direction with By Contrast

Paul’s latest album, By Contrast, showcases his continued evolution as an artist. This acoustic album features some of his favorite Irish and crossover songs, offering fans a fresh and intimate listening experience. Paul discusses the inspiration behind the album and how it represents a departure from his previous work, emphasizing his desire to continually explore new musical avenues.

Performing on St. Patrick’s Day in America

A Special Connection to St. Patrick’s Day

For Paul Byrom, performing on St. Patrick’s Day in America holds a special significance. He shares his excitement about performing at Myron’s at The Smith Center on this iconic day, explaining how the celebration of Irish culture and heritage resonates deeply with him. Paul’s performances on St. Patrick’s Day are always a highlight, filled with energy, emotion, and a strong connection to his Irish roots.

Engaging with the Audience

One of the aspects Paul enjoys most about performing is the opportunity to banter with his audience. Whether it’s sharing a joke, recounting a story, or interacting with fans, Paul’s ability to connect with his audience is a key element of his live shows. He talks about why this interaction is so important to him and how it enhances the overall concert experience.

Fitness and Longevity in Music

Staying Fit: The Secret to Endurance

Paul Byrom’s commitment to staying physically fit is well-known among his fans. He explains why maintaining his fitness is crucial to his ability to perform at the highest level, particularly given the demands of his touring schedule. From running marathons to regular workouts, Paul’s dedication to fitness ensures that he can deliver powerful performances night after night.

Balancing Fitness with a Music Career

Balancing a rigorous fitness routine with a busy music career is no easy feat, but Paul has found ways to integrate both into his life. He shares his strategies for staying in shape while on tour and how this balance has contributed to his longevity as a performer. Paul’s approach to fitness is not just about physical health but also about maintaining the mental clarity and focus needed for his demanding career.

Paul Byrom’s Legacy and Future Plans

A Celebrated Career Spanning Three Decades

With more than 30 years in the music industry, Paul Byrom has built a legacy that spans continents and genres. From his early days in Dublin to his time with Celtic Thunder and his successful solo career, Paul’s journey is a testament to his talent, hard work, and unwavering passion for music. His ability to adapt to changes in the industry and continually evolve as an artist has earned him a place among Ireland’s finest tenors.

What’s Next for Paul Byrom?

Looking ahead, Paul Byrom is excited about the future. With new projects on the horizon and ongoing tours planned, fans can expect more incredible music and memorable performances. Whether it’s through new recordings or live shows, Paul is committed to continuing his journey in music, sharing his voice and passion with audiences around the world. Stay updated on his latest news and tour dates by visiting Paul Byrom's official website.

Connecting with Paul Byrom

Engage with Paul Byrom Online

For fans who want to stay connected with Paul Byrom, there are multiple ways to engage with him online. His official website offers comprehensive information on his music, tour dates, and latest news. You can also follow him on social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube to get the latest updates and interact with him directly.

Catch Up on Previous Episodes

For those who missed it, Paul Byrom’s previous appearance on the Talk About Las Vegas Podcast is also available. In that episode, he discusses his career in more detail and shares additional stories from his journey in music. You can listen to the episode here.

Paul Byrom Podcast Episode Conclusion

This episode of Talk About Las Vegas Podcast provides an in-depth look at the life and career of Paul Byrom, an Irish tenor whose voice has resonated with audiences worldwide. From his early days as a young singer in Dublin to his success as a solo artist, Paul’s journey is one of passion, dedication, and a deep connection to his heritage. Tune in to hear Paul Byrom share his insights on music, fitness, and the joy of performing on St. Patrick’s Day in America.

For more engaging and insightful conversations, don’t forget to subscribe to Talk About Las Vegas Podcast. Stay connected with Paul Byrom and explore his work through the links provided.

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Talking with Paul Byrom Full Transcript
Ira Sternberg: When Irish eyes are smiling, you know we're getting close to St. Patrick's Day, and one of Ireland's finest crossover tenors is in Las Vegas to celebrate on stage. My guest, Paul Byrom, is performing in Myron's at the Smith Center on Sunday, March 17th—St. Patrick's Day, of course—at 7 p.m. For ticket information, go to thesmithcenter.com, and for everything about Paul, go to paulbyrom.ie, and follow him on Facebook, Instagram, X, and YouTube. Paul, welcome back to the show.
Paul Byrom: It's delighted to be here. Thank you so much for having me.
Ira: Thanks. I was checking, and it was five years ago when you were on the show last.
Paul: Yeah, it seems like it.
Ira: It’s quite remarkable—I mean, five years, and what a five years it has been. Between COVID, recording albums, and touring, it's just kind of flown by. So, I find it quite remarkable that it's been five years, but that's life, I suppose. In the meantime, I lost my Irish accent, so I’ll have to start one.
Paul: Some might say that’s not a bad thing.
Ira: Before we talk about your upcoming performance at the Smith Center, your latest album is called By Contrast, and there’s a reason it’s called that. You’ve produced many albums, but the reason it’s called By Contrast is because it’s acoustic, am I correct?
Paul: Yeah, primarily. This is my eighth studio album, and prior to that, most of the albums I’ve done have had large orchestras. The one preceding this was an album called What I Did for Love, which had a 66-piece orchestra on it. When I did this album, there were only five musicians. I called in five of my closest friends in the business to perform on the album. There are pipes, whistles, and mainly piano, bass, and guitar on the album. It’s a very stripped-back, acoustic album full of some of my favorite ballads and songs that suited that style of music or ensemble of musicians. When I was thinking of an album title, I thought, "God, this is totally contrasting to everything I’ve done before," and I came up with By Contrast—Paul By Contrast. So, yeah, it’s a funny one.
Ira: And for all information about that album and all your other albums, people can go to paulbyrom.ie, which I assume stands for Ireland.
Paul: Yeah, that’s the Irish handle. I did have paulbyrom.com, but I like the .ie because it’s a little bit more Irish.
Ira: Right to your roots. I was thinking about how often you come to the United States. I know you've been performing on St. Patrick's Day in Las Vegas, but do you get a chance to come and perform on a regular basis each year besides St. Patrick's Day?
Paul: Yeah, for sure. I always joke if you're an Irish tenor and you're not working in America around St. Patrick’s Day, there’s something very wrong with you, and you need to look at what you’re doing wrong. Thankfully, we’re very welcomed, especially around March. But I do tour quite a bit throughout the year. I did my first Christmas tour in a number of years just this past Christmas, and that was so much fun. Normally, I do musical theater in Ireland around Christmas time, but this year, I wanted to take a break from it and went out on tour instead. It sold really well, and the reaction was great. I’ll probably come back out for a handful more gigs in July and then do Christmas again. I used to do longer tours, but now I’m kind of dipping in and out. This tour, for example, is just four concerts. It’s easier and less straining. I’m a one-man show pretty much, and traveling alone for long periods of time can be pretty full-on, so I’ve changed tack a bit.
Ira: You probably feel the jet lag a little bit more these days too.
Paul: Certainly when I come home. I find that jet lag is more intense coming back to Ireland. My trick is to drink a whole load of Guinness when I get home, and you’ll fall asleep pretty easily.
Ira: You mentioned traveling alone, but I’m starting a rumor that you’re traveling with a 36-piece leprechaun band.
Paul: If that sells tickets, I’m happy to play along! For the Vegas gig, I have a lovely musician joining me, Garrett Kieran, who’s also from Ireland. He’ll be playing piano and guitar. Myron’s is such a lovely setting, so I’m quite selective about who I work with.
Ira: Well, you’re an established artist, and you’ve been performing since you were a kid. You’re entitled to modify your performance schedule and how you do things.
Paul: You have to evolve. The industry is evolving all the time, and everything is becoming more social. We’re doing a social media interview right now, which we wouldn’t have even contemplated five years ago. You have to keep on top of the curve and adapt. I’ve done gigs with just myself and backing tracks from the albums. I was worried people would be angry, but they didn’t mind at all. They’re there to see me and hear me sing.
Ira: I wonder if the word is not evolve but adapt, because as the world evolves and technology evolves, the artist adapts to the evolution of technology.
Paul: Yeah, adapt is definitely a better word. I started my first professional engagement when I was cast as the lead in an opera called Amahl and the Night Visitors at the age of 12. I released my first album at 14, The Golden Voice of Paul Byrom, and that was 30 years ago this year. I get a great sense of pride in the fact that I’m still going and adapting as I go.
Ira: Well, you look like you’re in good shape. Those who are just listening can’t see you, but the ones watching us can see that you look physically fit.
Paul: I enjoy fitness. It’s a big part of my life. You need to be fit to tour, especially when you’re traveling around a big country like America. Fitness is great for the head, too. It’s an hour every day where I don’t think about singing or music. Plus, in today’s world, people expect you to look well when you come on stage.
Ira: So, let me figure this out—five pints of Guinness versus an hour in the gym?
Paul: There has to be wiggle room! Everything’s good in moderation.
Ira: You mentioned your appearances in the U.S., and one of the things you do is perform the national anthem for teams like the Boston Celtics. That must be fun because it’s a different vibe than performing on stage in Las Vegas.
Paul: Yeah, I’ve been singing for the Boston Celtics for about ten years now. It’s a nerve-wracking experience because you’re singing another country’s anthem, and I take that very seriously. I sing it as it’s written, with gusto and passion, especially in Boston, which is an extension of Ireland. The reaction is always phenomenal, and I love singing it.
Ira: I’m going to switch gears and ask you about Dr. Veronica Dunn, who you studied under. Who is she, and why did she have an influence on you?
Paul: Veronica was a well-renowned European opera star and professor of music in Dublin. She trained some of the top tenors and sopranos from Ireland, including the Three Irish Tenors. I started classical training as a young boy and later studied at the Royal Irish Academy of Music. Veronica was direct and didn’t mix her words, which I appreciated. She took me under her wing and taught me a lot. She wanted me to pursue opera, but I was more inclined toward musical theater, crossover, and Irish music. Opera would have been a challenging path, but I found my passion in other areas.
Ira: I asked you a question five years ago, and I want to bring it back—Is it Celtic or Celtic?
Paul: It’s a minimum dollar question, and there’s no definitive answer. In sports, it’s often pronounced “Celtic,” like the Glasgow Celtics, but when referring to the people, it’s “Celtic.” So, it’s Celtic Thunder, for sure. I have no idea why, but that’s how it is.
Ira: You were one of the founding members of Celtic Thunder, and you’ve done well in your solo career. When you plan your performances, do you take a different approach when you’re traveling with just a couple of musicians versus a large orchestra?
Paul: Yeah, when you’re performing with a large band, you have to pick songs based on the arrangements you have. With just one or two musicians, your repertoire is larger, and you can adjust the setlist as you go. It also keeps things interesting for me. I like having the freedom to change things up depending on the crowd’s vibe. When I was with Celtic Thunder, the setlist was set in stone, and there was no talking between songs. I love interacting with the audience and telling stories, so I enjoy the flexibility of my solo performances.
Ira Sternberg: Do you ever check to see what percentage of your audience is Irish versus everyone else?
Paul Byrom: When I do a concert, I usually ask, "Who here has a bit of Irish in them?" It’s easier than asking who doesn’t! Maybe three or four will raise their hands claiming they’re not Irish, but I joke that they just haven’t looked deep enough. In the U.S., most people who come to the shows are of Irish descent. By the end of the show, everyone feels a little bit Irish, and that’s the idea. Even though my shows are predominantly Irish material, I like to sprinkle in other genres too. I like to think of it as a show for all ages—something that should appeal to everybody. The songs I sing all have a story behind them, and I try to bring that storytelling aspect to the stage.
Ira: When you come to Las Vegas to perform at Myron’s at the Smith Center on March 17th, St. Patrick’s Day, are you setting it up so you have perhaps three to four songs that you definitely plan to perform?
Paul: Absolutely. There are certain songs I always include, like Danny Boy. It’s a must—if I didn’t sing Danny Boy at some point, I probably wouldn’t get out of the country! Most of my setlist is set in stone by the time I’m on the plane, but I always keep a few songs in reserve that I might switch in or out depending on the mood.
Ira: The Vegas show is an interesting one. I remember when you were first booked, you thought, “Of all the shows in Vegas, with all the big superstars, who’s going to turn up to see me?” But it turned out to be a big success.
Paul: Yeah, I remember being a bit nervous about it. When I first got booked, I was worried that nobody would come to see me, but when I arrived, the theater was sold out. Every time I’ve come to Vegas, the audience has been huge. I pinch myself sometimes, thinking, "I’m performing in Vegas—this little lad from Ireland." It’s quite funny, but I get a great kick out of it. After the shows, I love to walk around and take in the sights. Vegas is the wildest and greatest place in the world.
Ira: Before I let you go, what’s your favorite song to perform?
Paul: It depends on the genre. For example, I’m singing Ave Maria at a funeral tomorrow in Dublin. It’s a beautiful piece that suits the occasion. For something more fun, I enjoy singing Those Were the Days, My Friend—it’s great fun and gets the crowd going. But nothing beats Danny Boy. It’s a song I’m very proud of, and it resonates with so many people, especially in America. The song captures the powerful emotions of leaving home, possibly forever, which is something a lot of Irish immigrants experienced. There’s a deep sense of pride and sadness in the song, and I love bringing that emotion to my performances.
Ira: That’s a great way to leave it. My guest has been Paul Byrom. He’s performing in Myron’s at the Smith Center on Sunday, March 17th, at 7 p.m. For ticket information, go to thesmithcenter.com, and for everything about Paul Byrom, go to paulbyrom.ie and follow him on Facebook, Instagram, X, and YouTube. Paul, thanks for being on the show.
Paul: It’s been an absolute pleasure, as always. Thank you so much.
Ira: See you next time.

FAQS About Paul Byrom

What is Paul Byrom doing now?

As of 2024, Paul Byrom continues to thrive as a solo performer, regularly taking the stage in both Ireland and the United States. He remains engaged with his audience through social media, where he shares news about his music, life events, and future performances, keeping his fans up to date with his journey.

How old is Paul Byrom?

Paul Byrom was born on April 11, 1979, which places him at 45 years old in 2024.

How tall is Paul Byrom?

Paul Byrom stands at about 6 feet tall, which is equivalent to 183 centimeters.

Is Paul Byrom married?

Paul Byrom was previously married to Dominique Coulter, the daughter of renowned Irish musician Phil Coulter, but they divorced in 2018. As of the latest information available, Paul Byrom has not remarried.

Why did Paul Byrom leave Celtic Thunder?

Paul Byrom departed from Celtic Thunder in 2010 to embark on a solo career. While he cherished his time with the group, he felt the need to explore his individual artistic direction and gain more control over his musical endeavors. His decision was motivated by a desire to pursue new challenges and personal growth as an independent artist.

Talking With Paul Byrom – March 4, 2024