Status Quo ready to rock castle
A MUSICAL extravaganza will rock Carrickfergus to its foundations later this year.
Guitar greats Status Quo and pianist Jools Holland will headline a two-day festival which takes place at the castle in the summer.
Status Quo frontman Francis Rossi said he was looking forward to the show and acknowledged the austere surroundings.
He added the fact that it's happening outdoors was also encouraging.
"England's just realised they can go out in the summer and people will come out," he said.
"They've only just fell into it in the last five or 10 years but in Denmark alone every year they have roughly 350 outdoor shows."
It is fitting that one of Ulster's oldest landmarks will be hosting one of the most enduring acts in rock 'n' roll.
Formed in 1962, Status Quo found success in the 1970s and have had 60 chart hits including songs such as Rockin' All Over the World and Whatever You Want.
Due to turn 60 this year, Mr Rossi admitted he is surprised that the band's career – which they modestly say is based upon three chords – has lasted this long.
"I couldn't see myself doing this at 30," he joked, "but back when we turned 30 the Rolling Stones were 40, then we hit 40 and realised we could keep going as long as they can."
The veteran rockers are no strangers to Northern Ireland and were one of the few acts who continued to perform in Ulster during the Troubles.
"Whenever I come up here I've always been looked after by lovely people from both sides – any side, I don't care," said Mr Rossi.
Other acts set to play during the event, which is part of a celebration to mark the 60th anniversary of Carrickfergus Borough Council, include The Saw Doctors and Hayseed Dixie.
Local lad Simon McBride will also be performing.
The virtuoso guitarist has toured the world with numerous acts but this will be his biggest show in his home town.
Live at the Castle will take place on August 28 and 29. Tickets for both shows will be on sale from February 27 from all usual outlets and online at www.liveatthecastle.co.uk
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Thursday 24 May 2012
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