Rory Gallagher

Gallagher was born in Ballyshannon, Ireland to musical parents. His father played accordion, whilst his mother sang and acted in local theatre.

He received his first guitar age nine and won a talent contest aged 12. He used the prize money to buy his first electric guitar.

His early influences included Muddy Waters, Woody Gutherie and Lead Belly. Whilst at school, he also learned to play mandolin, banjo, and alto saxophone.