Donegal singer-songwriter Maria McCormack returns with her deeply personal new single “Whiskey and Me”, released worldwide on April 17th, alongside an official music video. A soul-stirring blend of blues, country rock, and raw storytelling, “Whiskey and Me” cements McCormack’s reputation as one of Ireland’s most emotionally authentic voices.
Written in the quiet solitude of her back garden in Letterkenny, the song was born from heartbreak. Following the devastating loss of one of her closest friends, McCormack found herself grappling not only with grief, but with the role alcohol had played in that loss.
“Drink was always something I enjoyed, but suddenly it became the very thing that took my friend from me. I was afraid… afraid I might not be able to stop if I started”. That fear, pain, and reflection pour through every lyric.
Rooted in soulful blues and country rock influences, with echoes of Chris Stapleton, the track carries a haunting honesty, balanced by a powerful thread of faith that runs throughout.
Recorded at Jealoustown Studios and produced by Stuart Gray, the song came together in what McCormack describes as a moment of pure fate. Stuart has recorded some of Ireland’s finest artists including Ryan Sheridan, Dermot Kennedy and Aslan to name a few.
After being selected to perform on the main stage at Lovestock Festival in summer 2025, she was awarded studio time with Gray. In a twist of timing, she was given a full uninterrupted day in the studio ,a rare opportunity that would shape the final recording. “It felt orchestrated by God. Stuart and I connected instantly. He was rehearsing for a ‘Tennessee Whiskey Ireland’ show at the time, and I just knew this was exactly the sound I had been searching for”. The result is a track that is both intimate and expansive, showcasing McCormack’s signature ability to cut straight to the heart.
Early praise for McCormack’s artistry has been widespread: “Maria McCormack is back with a brand new song that has No.1 written all over it – pure class”. Paul McDevitt, Highland Radio. “There is a song that hits you right between the ears… It’s a statement of intent. Great playing and a fine voice to go with it.” Brian Lally, RTÉ Radio 1. “Maria McCormack is an artist of genuine range… capable of being playful one moment, then emotionally devastating the next”. John Creedon, RTÉ Radio 1 (on earlier work) With “Whiskey and Me”, Maria McCormack delivers not just a song, but a testimony, one that speaks to loss, resilience, and the strength found in faith.
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