A Dream Come True at Belsonic
A Belsonic concert transformed into a life-changing experience when 16-year-old Paul was unexpectedly invited on stage by American singer Zach Bryan to perform in front of an audience of 45,000 people.
Having purchased golden circle tickets back in November and prepared a handmade sign, Paul’s sole ambition was to join Bryan on stage for the song "Nine Ball." Against all odds, that aspiration was fulfilled.
As Bryan began playing the intro to "Nine Ball," it initially seemed the opportunity had passed. However, the singer noticed Paul's sign and halted the performance.
Security personnel then lifted Paul over the barriers and onto the stage, marking the beginning of a memorable moment.
The Unforgettable Duet
"He said: 'Play for your dad, I've never seen a poster like that before… do we trust him?'" Paul recalled, as the crowd erupted in cheers.
"I walked out on the stage and 45,000 people were cheering at me," he added.
What followed was a surreal duet of "Nine Ball," with Paul performing alongside one of his musical idols despite having only taken up guitar ten months earlier.
During the performance, Bryan asked Paul why he wanted to play the song for his father, a conversation that helped ease his nerves.
"Before this, I wouldn't have even had the confidence to record myself and post it so, it's a little bit of a leap," Paul said.
Previously, the largest audience Paul had played for was just three friends, and he was apprehensive about their reactions.
"I honestly can't explain it, I don't know what gave me the courage to think, I want to go on stage now.
"I didn't feel a single bit of fear on that stage, all I felt was confidence, courage and support from the crowd."
From Injury to Inspiration
The teenager, who hails from Buncrana in County Donegal, revealed that music became his focus following a sports injury that left him sidelined.
"I got a sports injury and had nothing to do and decided to pick up the guitar and it must have worked."
A longtime admirer of Bryan, Paul explained that the songwriter’s storytelling was what initially drew him in.
"I love his genre of music, it's not just country, although, a lot of people think it is."
Looking Ahead
Paul hopes that this unforgettable experience will mark the beginning of a larger journey in music.
"It's always been my dream to pursue music, sing my own songs and tell my own stories.
"The only thing stopping me was confidence but after having 45,000 people staring at me, I think I can handle a pub or two."
If he were to describe the evening in a single word, Paul chose "astronomical."
"I think that is the happiest I've ever felt in my entire life... Winning the lotto wouldn't give me that much happiness."
A Special Bond Through Music
For Paul, the moment was made even more meaningful by the person with whom he shared it.
The song "Nine Ball" holds particular significance for him and his father, reflecting their close relationship forged through years of playing pool together.
"We've been playing pool anywhere really, since I was seven.
"If we went out to watch the football match, we'd always play a little bit of pool and it's never stopped from seven to 16 although, I've never really beat him yet."
Witnessing his father's reaction added emotional depth to the occasion.
"I've never seen my dad cry before but last night, he did shed a wee tear. I'm honestly happier for him than I am for me."
