Gareth Dunlop

Shenandoah

Shenandoah is one of the most beguiling songs in the North American tradition. 

Rivers were a very essential part of trading routes, and the boatmen and trappers who plied their trades were well-known as singers – it’s a global phenomenon, singing when working, lessening the chore. 

Some sources suggest the song is based around a trader falling in love with the daughter of the famed Indian Chief, Shenandoah, after whom the river, city and university have been named. 

Whatever its truth, this shanty has found its way into the hearts of people right across the world.

Biography

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Gareth Dunlop is a singer-songwriter who is a multi-instrumentalist, engineer and record producer. His distinct songwriting and vocal styles have led to his songs being featured in numerous television shows, films and commercials. In 2013, Dunlop’s song “Wrap Your Arms Around Me” was part of the soundtrack for the movie Safe Haven based on a romance novel by Nicholas Sparks. His song was the second best selling single on the album. 

Currently Gareth is in a joint venture publishing deal with Moraine Music Group and Round Hill Music. He spends time in both the US and Northern Ireland, but permanently lives in Belfast and operates a recording studio in Hollywood. 

As a songwriter and artist, Gareth has a mix of folk and soul music, which can be heard in films, television shows and commercials, such as for Subaru in the US, Discover Northern Ireland, and Disney Germany. Television shows featuring his songs include NASHVILLE, House, One Tree Hill, Private Practice, Switched at Birth, Army Wives, Lucifer, Cougar Town, and Bones. 

The poetic vulnerability in his songs and distinctive, soulful voice has led to him touring in the UK, Europe and US, opening for a diverse group of artists including Van Morrison, The Stereophonics, James Morrison and more. 

He is one of the most gifted and exceptional live performers Northern Ireland has ever produced.