Many people took to social media to praise the documentary about Irish singer-songwriter Damian Dempsey that aired last night.
The 47-year-old Dublin resident shot Love Yourself Today live on Vicar Street and across Dublin for Christmas 2019.
Filmmaker Ross Killeen shot the documentary in an attempt to capture the raw and emotional nature of Dempsey’s gig.
“When Ross came up with the idea for the movie, I thought he would never be able to capture what was going on in that room,” Dempsey told RTÉ’s The Ryan Tubulidi Show.
“But for some reason, he did. I think it’s because he wrote about the fans, not about me. It’s very healing.”
Killeen said the film is about hope, positivity, nature, and the power of healing.
“While everyone is at the concert, it is important to say that Damien makes everyone feel great when he plays the last song. I’m surprised it happened,” he said.
“When you go to a gig and look around, you realize that everyone has a story, there are all generations in that room, and they all relate to them.
“I’m trying to understand what his music is that resonates so deeply with his fans and what they’ve been through.”
Dempsey urged people to seek help and talk about the trauma they had endured throughout their lives. He said music was his “healing power.”
“You have to talk about it, face it head-on, talk about it. That’s the only way it can heal. You have to let it go and forgive,” he said.
“I have music. Music helps you. It gives you a better vibe.”
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Viewers praised the “inspirational” musicians and acknowledged the “cathartic” nature of the documentary.
One Twitter user said: His level of passion and enthusiasm is unmatched. ”
“Damien Dempsey’s documentary proves the power of music and how it can literally change someone’s life.”
Another wrote: Damien Dempsey is great and this documentary is absolutely amazing. ”
Love Yourself Today is available on RTÉ Player.
