Ian Shiply Interviews & Song Surgery – Drogheda Songwriting Festival 2026

Drogheda SongWriting Festival

Founding Team

The Drogheda Songwriting Festival was co-founded by Irish singer-songwriters Darren A. Flynn and Gerry Hodgers, united by a shared passion for empowering independent songwriters and fostering creative community.

• • Darren A. Flynn: A Dublin-born, Choice Music Award-nominated singer-songwriter blending Americana, folk-country, and modern pop. With extensive international touring experience and domestic festival appearances including Electric Picnic, Kilkenny Roots, and Sligo Live, Darren brings a wealth of performance and industry experience to the festival setup.

• Gerry Hodgers: A Drogheda-based songwriter, radio presenter with Downdaroad Radio, and host of the long-running Purple Sessions. Drawing on deep influences from John Prine, Guy Clark, and Simon & Garfunkel, Gerry’s narrative-driven storytelling and community engagement form the heart of the festival’s ethos.