Statue to legendary musician Rory Gallagher unveiled outside Ulster Hall in Belfast

A bronze statue dedicated to legendary rock and blues guitarist Rory Gallagher has been unveiled in Belfast.

Hundreds of fans gathered on Saturday to see the tribute to the musician, which is located outside the Ulster Hall, a venue he played on numerous occasions during the 1970s and 80s.

Belfast lord mayor Micky Murray opened the ceremony, with fans chanting ‘Rory’ as a layer of blue plastic wrapped around the statue proved difficult to remove during the unveiling.

The statue is inspired by a January 1972 Melody Maker magazine cover image of Gallagher onstage at the Belfast venue.

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It was created by renowned sculptors Anto Brennan, Jessica Checkley and David O’Brien of Bronze Art Ireland.

The unveiling will be followed by a special screening tonight of the Tony Palmer-directed Irish Tour ‘74 film, which includes live performances and footage of the guitarist in a war-ravaged Belfast, as well as on the streets of Cork city, where Gallagher grew up.

Originally from Ballyshannon, Gallagher moved in 1967 to his “second home” in Belfast, a city that would become a cornerstone of his musical journey.

It was here that Taste, his first blues-rock trio, played the legendary clubs such as Sammy Huston’s, The Maritime and Club Rado.

The final Taste concert, featuring John Wilson & Richard McCracken was at Queen’s University in 1970.

At the start of his solo career, he formed a new band with drummer Wilgar Campbell and bassist Gerry McAvoy. Later he would bring on Lou Martin and Brendan O’Neill, all Belfast musicians, who helped to shape his career.

Renowned for his soulful playing, dynamic performances, and dedication to his craft, he established himself as a trailblazer in Irish rock music.

Over the course of his career, he toured around the world and his albums have sold more than 30 million copies globally. He died in June 1995, aged 47.

In 2010, a statue was unveiled in the town of his birth, which annually plays host to the Ballyshannon Rory Gallagher Festival.

This year marks the 30th anniversary of Gallagher’s passing.

His brother Dónal Gallagher, who was his manager for much of his career, last month said: “It’s fitting that the city he loved so much is where his legacy will be celebrated for generations to come.

“Belfast wasn’t just a place he performed; it was a city that shaped his musical journey and welcomed him like one of its own.

“From the early days when he played here, it became a second home, a source of inspiration, and a springboard to international success.”

Frank Girvan from the Rory Gallagher Statue Project Trust, which has been instrumental in the initiative, said: “It has been many years in the making, and we are incredibly grateful for the support we’ve received from fans, fellow musicians, and all those who continue to show their commitment to keeping Rory’s legacy alive.

“From fundraising to performances, we’ve organised numerous initiatives, including the memorial statue in Belfast, to ensure that Rory’s contributions to music are never forgotten.

“We hope more people will join us in these efforts, as we continue to celebrate the music and spirit of a man who changed so many lives.”

It is hoped the statue will not only commemorate Gallagher’s musical legacy, but also serve as a focal point for local and international music fans, drawing visitors to Ulster Hall.

Iain Bell, acting chief executive at the venue, said: “Ulster Hall has hosted countless legendary performances, and Rory Gallagher’s connection to this iconic venue is unmatched.

“This statue and event are not just about celebrating Rory’s career; they also reaffirm Belfast’s status as a cultural hub.

“It highlights the city’s vibrant musical heritage and its importance as a destination for music lovers worldwide.”