Scotland’s biggest night of traditional music is all set to celebrate the legendary Glasgow comedy and folk music icon, Sir Billy Connolly, this year at the Hoolie in the Hydro. This year’s event, titled The Big Yin, will be held on Saturday, December 13 at the OVO Hydro in Glasgow.
A group of musicians will come together to honor Sir Billy, his unique sense of humor, and his passion for folk music at the event. The tribute to this Glasgow icon will serve as the grand finale of the night, with artists performing some of Billy’s most beloved songs, such as “I Wish I Was in Glasgow” and “Glasgow Central.”
Sir Billy played a significant role in the Glasgow folk scene during the 1960s, frequently performing sessions at the Scotia Bar and releasing music as one half of the Humblebums. His banjo and folk roots have been a defining feature of his career.
Gary Innes, a broadcaster, musician, and the organizer of Hoolie in the Hydro, expressed his admiration for Sir Billy, stating, “Billy Connolly is a true Glasgow and Scottish hero. His big personality, love for folk music, and the joy of people coming together to have a great time really made him the perfect inspiration for this year’s Hoolie in the Hydro. It’s been 60 years since Billy formed the Humblebums, and 2025 marks Glasgow’s 850th birthday. As one of the city’s great success stories and most famous sons, we just had to pay tribute to the Big Yin.”
Aly Bain, a renowned Scottish fiddler who collaborated with Sir Billy for many years, will also be part of the tribute. Reflecting on their long friendship, Aly said, “Billy and I started our careers on a motorbike with a sidecar, and things only got better from there. Since then, we’ve shared over 50 years of friendship and countless great memories. He’s a very special man and friend, and I’m really looking forward to celebrating the incredible life and times of my old pal at the Hydro.”
Now in its fourth year, Hoolie in the Hydro has earned a reputation as the world’s largest ceilidh and will once again showcase a lineup from Scotland’s vibrant folk and traditional music scene. The event will feature performances from the Elephant Sessions, Trail West, Mànran, and Beluga Lagoon.
For more information about this year’s Hoolie in the Hydro, interested individuals can visit the Ovo Hydro website. Get ready to celebrate the Big Yin in style at this year’s event filled with music, laughter, and the spirit of Glasgow. Cheers to Sir Billy Connolly and his lasting impact on the world of comedy and folk music!
