Biography: Gareth Dunlop

Gareth Dunlop: Belfast’s soulful songsmith set to appear at the British Country Music Festival 2025

Gareth Dunlop, a Belfast-born singer-songwriter whose music has been featured on hit TV shows like Nashville and This Is Us, is bringing his unique blend of Americana and country to The British Country Music Festival 2025. With experience writing for country stars in Nashville and a distinctive, powerhouse vocal delivery, Dunlop’s performance promises to be a festival highlight.

Born and raised in Belfast, Gareth Dunlop has established himself as a renowned talent. His music has been featured across radio, television, and film, including popular drama series including Nashville, Bones, House, This Is Us, Lucifer, and Suits, to name a few.

Gareth has had five songs featured in the highly acclaimed Nashville TV series: “A Few Steps My Way”, “Together We Stand”, “Falling”, “Keep Coming Back”, and “Moving On Never Felt So Good”.

From Belfast to Nashville: A Musical Journey

Gareth has split his time between Belfast and Nashville for the last decade. There, he worked as a staff songwriter for several publishing companies, penning songs for country music stars such as husband and wife, Tim McGraw and Faith Hill. Gareth co-wrote ‘Sleeping In The Stars’ for the power couple, with over 2 million plays on Spotify.

He has also written songs with and for the legendary John Oates of Hall & Oates fame and Americana legends such as Kim Richey and Matthew Perryman Jones.

Critical Acclaim and Live Performances

His music has been met with critical acclaim, earning the coveted “One To Watch” from Record Of The Day & Maverick Country, stating, “There is nothing quite like his live performance.” 

“With songs from his latest record Animal, along with commercial hit “Devil Like You” (as featured in Netflix’s Lucifer) and 2018’s “Can’t Stand Myself,” Gareth Dunlop delivered a beautiful set of music with a combination of impressive vocals alongside solid guitar and piano work.” Music Connection USA

“Tonight showcases an amazing performance by arguably one of Northern Ireland’s greatest singer/songwriters from the past decade. Dunlop deserves to be recognised on the world stage in a much bigger capacity. Upon judging from tonight’s gig and recent tour, the world could be his oyster if given the chance, and Dunlop himself wants to take it.” National Rock Review 

This raw energy and authenticity have allowed him to share stages with an impressive array of artists. He’s toured extensively across the UK, Europe, and North America, opening for diverse acts such as Bonnie Raitt, Foy Vance, Van Morrison, and The Stereophonics.

The Dunlop Sound

Dunlop skilfully blends the sounds of roots, Americana, country and pop, woven with his poetic lyricism and distinctive, powerhouse vocal delivery.

Recent Releases and Future Prospects

Dunlop’s recent album, Animal, showcases his evolving sound. Recorded at his own Sycamore Studios in Belfast, it demonstrates his growth as an artist and producer. Tracks like “Right About Ready” highlight his knack for crafting catchy, upbeat tunes with meaningful lyrics.

The British Country Music Festival 2025

As Gareth Dunlop prepares to perform at The British Country Music Festival 2025, fans can expect a performance that showcases his musical journey—Dunlop’s set promises to be a festival highlight, from his Belfast roots to his Nashville-influenced sound.

His ability to connect with audiences through his heartfelt lyrics and powerful vocals will surely win over new fans. Meanwhile, long-time followers will appreciate the depth and maturity of his latest material.

As we look forward to his performance, one thing is clear: Gareth Dunlop is an artist who continues to push boundaries and evolve. His journey from Belfast to Nashville and back again has shaped a musician who is as comfortable in intimate venues as on festival stages.

Don’t miss the chance to experience Gareth Dunlop’s soul-stirring performance at The British Country Music Festival 2025. It’s an opportunity to witness a true artist at the height of his powers, bringing his unique blend of Belfast grit and Nashville polish to the UK country music scene.

This is the first time we have programmed an extended set and headline status for the acoustic Horseshoe Pavilion Theatre stage. Gareth is UK songwriting royalty and deserving of special status; he is living proof that homegrown talent can thrive and hold its own in Nashville Music City.