The long-anticipated statue of Irish guitar legend Rory Gallagher has been unveiled outside Ulster Hall in Belfast, but it has sparked widespread criticism among fans.
The statue, officially unveiled by Belfast Lord Mayor Micky Murray, was created by Anto Brennan, Jessica Checkley, and David O’Brien of Bronze Art Ireland. Its pose was inspired by a 1972 Melody Maker cover, which featured Gallagher performing onstage at Ulster Hall. In the original photo, Gallagher is shown with his arms raised, holding a Fender Telecaster, under the headline “Rory Rocks Belfast!”
While the pose pays homage to the iconic moment, fans were quick to point out the discrepancy in the choice of guitar. Gallagher was famously associated with the Fender Stratocaster, making the inclusion of the Telecaster puzzling. Additionally, the statue has drawn unexpected criticism for appearing feminine in its depiction of the late musician.
Social media platforms were flooded with reactions:
“What’s a chick with a Telecaster got to do with Rory Gallagher?” one user questioned.
Another quipped, “It looks like Kim Deal with Bruce Springsteen’s guitar.”
A third commented, “As a Rory fan, and I met him back in the day, that is bloody awful! Looks more like Madonna.”
“Rory Gallagher looks like Cher,” added another.
Irish musician Thomas Walsh joined the conversation, sarcastically posting, “Ireland has unveiled its latest statue celebrating the life and career of one of our most beloved rock icons—KT Tunstall.”
The statue has been featured in a video from the Historic Ulster YouTube channel and in Walsh’s social media post, where fans have continued to voice their dissatisfaction.
Gallagher, who passed away in 1995 at the age of 47, was commemorated with a plaque at Ulster Hall during a tribute concert in 2007. Plans for the statue had been approved by Belfast City Council’s Planning Committee as far back as 2016, making its unveiling a long-awaited event.
Despite the initial fan backlash, the statue aims to honor the enduring legacy of one of Ireland’s most iconic rock musicians.
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