Gilbert O’Sullivan made a Freeman of his native city
Mayor of Waterford City and County, Councillor Joe Conway bestowed the honour on the Waterford born singer-songwriter whose career has spanned over five decades
When Gilbert O’Sullivan, the award-winning singer-songwriter, was made a Freeman of Waterford city and county at a ceremony in City Hall last month, it was his mother May, who was at the forefront of his mind.
O’Sullivan was born on the Cork Road in 1946. His family later relocated to Wiltshire, in England, when he was just eight years old. But his Waterford roots were never forgotten and it was here that he began his musical journey, playing the piano and honing his craft not through formal lessons, but playing by ear.
“I am proud of my roots,” he told the ceremony. “The biggest regret that I have is that my mother, a Waterford girl, would have loved this. To be here, to be part of this is very special. I kind of like to think that God has given her the day off so she can come back to be here in spirit at least.”
Gilbert’s first single Nothing Rhymed was released in 1970. It was an overnight success featuring in the top 10 music charts across Britain and Europe. His 1971 debut album Himself was littered with the most perfect examples of his art and craftsmanship.
His second, 1972’s Back to Front, firmly cemented Gilbert among the world’s best, with top 10 singles and number one hits around the world, including the classic Alone Again (Naturally), which topped the US charts for six weeks and earned him three Grammy nominations.
British recognition soon followed with the songs Clair and Get Down reaching the summit of the British singles charts and his LP Back to Front topping the album charts.
In the same year at the 18th Ivor Novello Awards, Gilbert was named Song Writer of the Year.
Mayor of Waterford City and County, Councillor Joe Conway bestowed the honour on the Waterford born singer-songwriter whose career has spanned over five decades.
“Personally, as a fan of his work for a half-century now, I regularly enjoy his Berry Vest compilation as I drive the miles here and there – my personal favourite being the very sparse and captivating Miss my Love Today, but I also have a naughty chuckle still at Permissive Twit,” he said.
“I could go on, detailing the milestones and accolades that Gilbert O’Sullivan has achieved throughout a career spanning 50 years.
“However, the essence of the man is captured not just in the length of his career, but in the depth of his impact on music and the hearts of those who have had the privilege to witness his journey.”
Councillor Lola O’Sullivan formally proposed that the Freedom be conferred on Gilbert O’Sullivan, and the motion was seconded by Councillor Joe Kelly.
