Well-known singer-songwriter Larissa Tormey has just released her new single, ''Kilbeggan’s Heart,' a tribute to the town of Kilbeggan, Co. Westmeath, where she has happily lived for over 20 years with her husband, farmer, Christopher Tormey.

After meeting him when he visited Moscow in 2001, Larissa, who trained as a classical pianist and mezzo soprano, moved to Kilbeggan.

She threw herself into the beef farm and rural life, helping with administration work, lending a hand during busy times, and assisting with moving cattle. She also made a name for herself on the Irish country music scene.

Originally from the Soviet Union, Larissa now proudly calls Kilbeggan home. Known for her emotive storytelling, soulful melodies, and heartfelt lyrics, she has found that living in a small rural town has kept her grounded, happy, and deeply connected to nature.

However, Larissa isn’t new to country living. Her parents worked as foresters and her family home was in the middle of a pine forest until she was 11-years-old, when the family relocated to the city. That move, she said, changed her life and brought many challenges.

"That income helped our family stay afloat, especially since wages in the Soviet Union were so small.

"We produced our own food - potatoes, vegetables, fruits, and berries - and my mum made homemade butter, jams, and pickles to prepare for the long winters," she said.

Reflecting on her inspiration for ''Killbeggan’s Heart', Larissa said: “I missed that part of my childhood, and I miss my parents, who have both passed away. When I moved to Kilbeggan, I felt like I was returning to that safe, happy environment from my childhood.

"The people here are so warm and friendly. They would do anything to help you if you needed it. I wanted to express those emotions in this song, and I hope anyone who grew up in a small town can relate to it.”

While Larissa composed the melody, she collaborated with Katherine Brown from the UK on the lyrics. The two met through Larissa’s songwriting work with DWB Publishing.

“Katherine wrote a brilliant chorus that truly brought the song to life,” Larissa added.

The track was produced by Florian Bray, a young German producer based in the UK. Known for his versatility and skill as a multi-instrumentalist, Florian brought Larissa’s vision for the song to reality.

“Florian did an incredible job, and I couldn’t be happier with the final result,” she said.

The music video for 'Kilbeggan’s Heart' was filmed at the historic Kilbeggan whiskey distillery. Larissa expressed her gratitude to Ruth Wyer and the distillery management for their support.

Directed and produced by FoxMediaCreation, led by Rafael Jesus and Jeniffer Zdroewski, the video is set to premiere very soon. For full details. see Larissa's social media.