Billy Connolly’s back in the music studio

Billy Connolly is returning to his folk music roots as he is set to feature on the new album his old friend Phil Coulter.
Billy Connolly - Photo copyright Eva Rinaldi - CC2
The Scottish comedian began his career as a folk musician, as the harpist and singer for The Humblebums back in the 1970s. He then turned to comedy and is now one of the best-loved stand-ups around the world.

Coulter produced The Humblebums’ very first album and the two have been friends ever since.

Coulter decided to team up with his old pal again and invited Connolly to play on Echoes of Home, due out later this year.

Connolly will play the autoharp on Echoes of Home, which will be steeped in Irish tradition and have that classic folk sound.

Coulter is a huge figure in Irish music. He has worked with the biggest names in the industry including Luke Kelly, Van Morrison and Sinéad O’Connor.

In 1995 he was asked to write a song that could be used as an anthem for the Irish rugby team, which was made up of players from both Northern Ireland and the Republic. He came back with Ireland’s Call, which is played before every international game.

Connolly is a renowned comedian all over the world. His knack of telling stories has had audiences crying with laughter for more than 40 years. He is also hugely popular because of his kind nature and his genuine care for others. He has used his global profile to raise awareness and money for countless good causes throughout his career. In 2001 he ran naked across Trafalgar Square, London, live on television to raise money for Comic Relief, a charity that tackles poverty and starvation in Africa.

It is great to hear that the two old friends are collaborating again, and I can’t for the album.

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By Andrew Moore

Andrew Moore is a writer for Irish Music Daily and Ireland Calling. His favourite Irish music bands are the Dropkick Murphys and the Pogues.