SINGER Mary Black last night said she is "honoured and grateful beyond words" after it was revealed she is to receive a lifetime achievement award at the RTÉ Radio 1 Folk Awards.
An icon of Irish folk music across the world, the Dublin-born performer will be presented with the accolade at an event at Vicar Street on November 17.
Founder and frontman of The Chieftains, Paddy Moloney, who passed away last year, will also be inducted into the Hall of Fame at the awards, which celebrate the best in folk music in Ireland from the past year.
As this year’s winner of the lifetime achievement award, Ms Black joins previous winners Christy Moore, Steve Cooney, Moya Brennan and Andy Irvine. The award will be presented on the night by writer, journalist and documentary filmmaker, Susan McKay.
Ms Black said it is a "great honour" to be the recipient of the award.
"It’s hard to believe that its almost 40 years since my first solo album and I have so much to be grateful for since then," she said.
"The gift of music and song first came from my parents who instilled in us a great love of music.
"I was fortunate to have an abundance of material written by exceptional songwriters who allowed me to share their stories.
"I was blessed also to have the outstanding musicians who worked with me to bring these songs alive and of course to have the audiences who loyally supported me down through the years. Míle buíochas - I am indeed honoured and grateful beyond words."
Presented by RTÉ's John Creedon, the RTÉ Radio 1 Folk Awards will feature live performances from Ms Black, The Chieftains, Sharon Shannon, Inni K, Scullion and Skippers Alley during a night that celebrates Irish folk music and artists, both established as well as emerging.
