Eric Bell will receive the Legend Award during this year’s Northern Ireland Music Prize ceremony.
The Oh Yeah Legend Award is presented annually to ‘an individual or band that has made a significant contribution to the world of music’, with previous recipients including Barry Devlin, ASH, Snow Patrol, Paul Brady and the late Gary Moore.
Set to take place at Ulster Hall in Belfast on 13 November, this year’s ceremony will see PRS for Music present Eric with the honour. Following the presentation, the musician will then take to the stage with his band the Eric Bell Trio for a live performance that will feature some special guests.
Speaking about today’s announcement, Eric said: ‘I would just like to thank every person out there who made it possible for me receiving this award. It's such an honour to be recognised in your own hometown. Thank you all.'
A founding member of Thin Lizzy, Eric was the band’s guitarist between 1969 and 1973 and played on their first three albums: Thin Lizzy (1971), Shades of a Blue Orphanage (1972) and Vagabonds of the Western World (1973).
He was also part of the band’s famous cover of Whiskey In The Jar, which was released as a single in 1972, and co-wrote a number of memorable Thin Lizzy songs, such as The Rocker, with Phil Lynott (vocals, bass) and Brian Downey (drums).
As well as his work with Thin Lizzy, Eric is renowned for working with the likes of Van Morrison, The Noel Redding Band and Mainsqueeze. He has also released a number of solo records with the Eric Bell Trio, who he continues to tour and perform with.
Stuart Fleming, Senior Writer Relations Manager for Northern Ireland and Scotland at PRS for Music, said: ‘Eric is one of the most iconic guitarists and songwriters in contemporary music. From his early days as a co-founder of Thin Lizzy through to his extraordinary solo material, he helped shape the sound of an era and continues to inspire the next generation of Northern Ireland’s blues and rock musicians.
‘We look forward to honouring Eric’s contributions to music, which underscore his status as a true legend.’
Oh Yeah Centre’s Charlotte Dryden added: ‘It was never a case of if, but when, with making this presentation to Eric. He is a true original and an east Belfast rock’n’roll blues hero. He has inspired generations of musicians to start bands and pick up guitars. He gave us Thin Lizzy and timeless classics like Whisky in the Jar and The Rocker, songs that have resonated with fans from all over the world.’
The NI Music Prize is an annual awards ceremony which celebrates the best of Northern Irish music. This year’s event will feature live performances from several of the shortlisted acts. Last year’s winners of the BBC Introducing ATL Artist of The Year award, Tramp, will also perform on the night.
