Category: Music

Performing my ‘Song for Brigid’ on St Brigid’s day for patients of Merlin Park Hospital, with the fabulous Niall Teague on lead guitar

Hope Across the Sea – This song is dedicated to all those in our Lifeboat Service, Coastguard Service, Air Corp and ordinary people who save lives at sea, day in and day out. The song was inspired by a plaque I saw on Killmacalogue Harbour in County Cork commemorating those who lost their lives in the sinking of The Seaflower, which left Killmacalogue Harbour on 22nd December 1968 heading for Dursey Island, she never made it. I wish that this song will in some way bring some love, healing and peace to the families of those who have lost their lives at sea, and to the cherished ones who were lost at sea, Ar dheis de go raibh a hanam dilis. Recorded live at a house concert in Brian Callan’s wonderful house in Carrabane Village, County Galway. Lyrics to song here

I wrote this tribute to Terence MacSwiney, Patriot, Poet, Playwright, Musician & 2nd lord Mayor of Cork, who died on hunger strike on 25th October 1920 for the cause of Irish Freedom. He gave the ultimate sacrifice that we may enjoy freedom. I spent a few days leading up to the 100th aniversary of his death writing this tribute poem. I got the idea to set the poem to an old traditional air called Cape Clear that I got from the playing of the wonderful Paddy Keenan & Arty McGlynn. A lockdown project and Sitting room recording. Thanks to Axel Grude from Songcraft Studios for putting his final touches of magical genius to the audio for the track.

Performing The Robin Song in Ballymore Eustace, Kildare with Children from 5 schools. I wrote this song after a Robin sang to me one morning one day when I arrived in work. The Robin is often seen as a messenger from a loved one who has passed on. I dedicate the song to my Wonderful Sister Gemma who died 7 days before Christmas in 2013 and to all of us who hold our departed loved ones in our hearts especially at Christmas time. It is a song of hope. Gemma started the carol service in Ballymore Eustace, county Kildare where 5 schools now come together every year to sing carols. I am so honoured and moved that these children learned the song and sang it with me in this video, a definite highlight in my journey through song to date.

This song is about my younger brother and I growing up adventurous little kids, roaming wild and free through the countryside. Its about looking at the world with eyes of wonder, fun and seeing new possibilities, yes we still can.

This Song for Brigid video was released on Imbolc 1st Feb 2021. The song honours Brigid, Godess and Celtic saint, woman of the earth. It heralds the coming of spring, moving from the darkness into the light and new life.