Rory Gallagher Statue Unveiled in Belfast, But Fans Divided Over Accuracy
A new statue of legendary guitarist Rory Gallagher has been unveiled in Belfast, but fans are divided with statue's inaccurate guitar choice .
Rory Gallagher Statue
The statue, designed by Bronze Art Ireland, depicts Gallagher in a famous pose from a 1972 Melody Maker cover, with his arms raised and a Fender Telecaster slung over his shoulder. While capturing the iconic image, the statue has faced criticism for several reasons.
No Strat?
Many fans have expressed disappointment with the choice of a Telecaster. Gallagher is best known for his mastery of the Fender Stratocaster, particularly his 1961 model, which recently sold at auction for a record-breaking $1.16 million.
Fans took to social media to voice their concerns, with comments like "Wrong guitar" and "Rory owned a Tele. But his… STRAT was his iconic trademark" dominating the conversation.
Slide Guitar
Rory used the Telecaster to play slide guitar, and you can clearly see a slide on his left hand's little finger.
Some fans have also questioned the statue's resemblance to Gallagher, describing it as "feminine" and comparing it to other musicians like Kim Deal and Madonna.
Comments like "I don't know who that is supposed to look like but it ain't Rory Gallagher!" and "Looks more like Madonna" highlight the dissatisfaction with the statue's likeness.
Rory Gallagher Statue Project Trust
Despite the controversy, the statue aims to celebrate Gallagher's enduring legacy in Belfast, a city deeply influenced by his music.
Frank Girvan, a member of the Rory Gallagher Statue Project Trust, emphasized the importance of fan support in keeping Gallagher's memory alive. Donal Gallagher, Rory's brother and former manager, expressed his support for the statue and its placement in Belfast.
A Fitting Tribute For A Legend
The statue was green-lit by the Belfast City Council in 2016. Rory Gallagher. The highly influential blues-rock guitarist, passed away in 1995 at 47. This new statue is located outside the venue on Bedford Street where Gallagher regularly performed throughout the Troubles in Northern Ireland.
The County Donegal-born musician also graced numerous stages across the city with his band Taste and as a solo artist before his passing in 1995.
Inspired by a January 1972 Melody Maker magazine cover image of Gallagher onstage at the Ulster Hall, the statue is the work of Anto Brennan, Jessica Checkley, and David O'Brien of Bronze Art Ireland.
Let us know what you thinkof the new statue in the comments section below.
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