This wonderful folk classic is about the highwayman, Willie Brennan, said to be from Kilworth just outside Fermoy in County Cork. Brennan robbed the rich and sometimes gave to the poor at the end of the 18th and start of the 19th centuries. There are numerous theories about Willie Brennan and his exploits, but it […]
Here’s a lullaby from one of the most influential folk singers ever to have emerged from the USA. Arlo Guthrie is the son of Woody Guthrie, nemesis of fascism. If you enjoyed this, please share
Black is the colour is one of the best known folk ballads in The Celtic Isles, being covered by many notable artists, some of whom are shown here. Amazingly, no one knows who wrote it. It apparently came over to the USA from Scotland during the massive wave of migrations that took place during the […]
This ballad by the Cavan singer-songwriter, Lisa O’Neill, speaks of the way in which machines are replacing people without improving anyone’s lives. We could be forgiven for thinking that increased mechanization is going to create a new society where technology does all the work and we can enjoy a life of leisure. Sadly, and at […]
This is a haunting ballad about a dog. OK, so you might wonder why go to all the bother for a mutt, but Michael Jackson sung one about a pet rat (Ben), so Rebel Voice prefers this one about man’s – and woman’s – best friend. Keep the tissues close… If you enjoyed this, please share
Lisa O’Neill is from Cavan close to the English-imposed border in Ireland. She is a fairly fresh voice on the Irish folk scene and a favourite of local DJs who know their music. He voice is certainly distinctive and her lyrics are insightful and profound. She is one to watch for the future. If you […]
This haunting ballad was written by the Derry song-writer, Phil Coulter, for his disabled child. Coulter was insistent that Luke Kelly should be the one to sing it. He recognized the strength of Luke’s voice and the passion that he would bring to the song. The version here contains some static. There are other studio […]
Here’s one for all you folk aficionados. Woody is a legend slightly diminished by his Toy Story namesake (feckin’ animation). Have a listen to a true hero of Socialist USA. If you enjoyed this, please share
This is one of Woody’s best known ballads. Is there an equivalent troubadour of the blue collar worker today in the United States? Perhaps Bruce moved in that direction at times, and Dylan certainly tackled some topical issues in his time, but have any presented as solidly working class and highlighted the continuing travesties being […]
Arlo Guthrie is the balladeer son of Woody, no, not from Toy Story but from the proud folk tradition of the USA. Arlo is a great entertainer in his own right and performs this classic track admirably. The lazy rhythm is appealing of those who enjoy kicking back and chilling out with a beer or […]
Planxty were widely regarded as the foremost folk music act in Ireland of the 70s and early 80s. They were instrumental (and sung a bit as well) in helping to revive the folk scene. bolstering it internationally. Today, their former members can still be heard on the airwaves of Ireland, and Christy Moore is still […]
Here the beautiful ballad, Song For Ireland, is performed by the musical genius, Dick Gaughan. This fine rendition is an example of what can be achieved when Ireland and Scotland work together. Rebel Voice truly hopes that the proud people of Scotland get the freedom they so richly deserve. Perhaps all of Ireland will be […]
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