This haunting melody, performed here by Christy Moore, was written by Micky MacConnell (pictured in cover photo) from Fermanagh in the Occupied Six Counties Of Ireland (OSC). The lyrics lament the bondage of colonialism that Ireland has endured for too long. Only Our Rivers Run Free is one of the most popular ballads to be heard […]
Impromptu Irish Session In Airport – Galway Girl
Spur of the minute is a good way to describe how Irish people often enjoy themselves. Airport security? What’s that? I reckon I could hijack a plane just by threatening to play the fiddle… – If you liked it, give it a share –
Carly Simon – Danny Boy
This has to be one of the most powerful renditions of the classic Irish ballad. This melody was taken from an old Gaelic air and had lyrics put to it by the English song-writer, Frederick Weatherly. https://youtu.be/_fwUT25TBMQ
Mundy And Sharon Shannon – Galway Girl
The Lakes Of Pontchartrain – Various Artists
This beautifully haunting song is set in Louisiana. It is a creole song but has become a firm favourite across Ireland. Here it is performed by a number of talented Irish musicians. Which do you prefer? – If you care, give it a share –
John Lennon And Yoko Ono – The Luck Of The Irish
This is a bit twee but Lennon’s heart is in the right place. Sadly, the same could be said for his unfortunate decision to let Yoko sing on this. Jaysus, but she’s brutal. She sounds like a badly injured crow trying to imitate Janice Street Porter.
The Pogues – Lullaby Of London
This is a beautifully gentle song from one of the greatest bands of all time, and from one of the greatest songwriters.
Damien Dempsey – Other Voices (live recording)
Here is an introduction to one the greatest Irish balladeers of today, or any day. Damien Dempsey is from working class Dublin. His songs are based upon the struggles of life to be found in everyday Ireland. If you want to understand life in modern Ireland, then let Dempsey be your guide. https://youtu.be/Q9Wwg0Y1Sc4?t=1m41s
Wolfe Tones – Joe McDonnell
This song is about one of the 10 Irish martyrs who died on hunger strike in 1981, fighting colonial rule and oppression. The lyrics tell a very emotive story and will be found to be relevant to those who fight injustice across the globe.
Planxty – Only Our Rivers Run Free
This is a standard that is regularly heard in Irish pubs the length and breadth of the land, with good reason.
Planxty – Johnny of Brady’s Lea
Welcome to the warming world of Irish folk music. This song is from Scotland. Johnny was one hell of a man. I bet the Scottish Independence movement wish they had a few more like him at the present time as he makes William Wallace look like Rab C Nesbitt. https://youtu.be/i8EbatNG6uk If you enjoyed this, please […]