Category: Performers

The legendary Dubliners banjo player Barney McKenna has died at the age of 72. He collapsed at his home this morning and was later pronounced dead at Beaumont Hospital in Dublin. His family released the …

After more than 20 years as lead singer with the hugely successful Irish band Dervish, Cathy Jordan has now released her first solo album. Although still a committed member of Dervish, Jordan has often pursued …

A new album from Mary Black always creates a buzz of excitement, especially these days as they’ve become something of a rarity. Mary Black Song for Ireland Mary Black interview Interview – Stories From the …

Padraig Lalor is a singer songwriter from Northern Ireland who has been working closely over the last few years with top performers like The Dubliners and Finbar Furey. Ismay’s Dream is his debut album … …

Sometimes you might be aware of an artist and know that they’re good but you never quite get round to listening to them properly– then one day you do get the chance and you realise …

The Celtic Tenors have been quiet on the recording front recently but now they’re back with a new album called Feels Like Home. For me it’s a welcome return because one of the things I’ve …

I was very sad to hear of the death the Scottish guitarist and singer Bert Jansch. He was a wonderful musician who influenced some of the best guitarists of the last 50 years. Musicians as …

Singer songwriter John Hogan, who performs and records simply as JH, has a new album out called Times Past. As the name suggests, it looks to bygone days but more importantly, it explores the emotions …

I once had a bruising encounter with the legendary folk singer Ralph McTell. Ralph is a peaceful man but he twisted my fingers all over the place – all because of his classic song, The …

Take some magical melodies from the rich vein of Irish traditional folk music. Add some scintillating but tasteful jazz arrangements from the heart of New York City. Throw in the rich and sultry voice of …

Ireland has a new set of world champions. They are the weary but elated men, women and children who smashed the record for the Longest Traditional Music Session ever. The event began last weekend when …

It’s always good to see top musicians putting something back into the community. That’s certainly the case with Martin Hayes and Steve Cooney. Hayes is six times All Ireland Fiddle Champion; Steve Cooney is a …

On May 28, 1779, poet and songwriter Thomas Moore (1779–1852) was born in Dublin. As a child, he enjoyed music and performing arts, and at one point wanted to be an actor. His mother wanted …

It’s always good to come across a talented young artist performing Irish music – when that artist has a style all of their own, it’s even more exciting. Tara O’Grady certainly fits that category. She …