U2, Aodhán Ó Ríordáin, and the Irish trying to save America.
In autumn 2017, U2 released their 14th studio album, Songs of Experience. Critical reception on the album was mixed – was it a superstar older rock band’s attempt at political relevance, or a late-career classic infused with the urgency of Brexit, Trump, and a world thrown into uncertainty? In December 2017, the … [Read more...] about The Last Word:
Irish American Agitation in the Age of Trump
Music Archives
The Last Word:
Redeeming Bing Crosby,
the Voice of Christmas
By Bob Lydon
December 22, 2017
December 22, 2017
Bing Crosby was once considered the greatest crooner of all and his recording of "White Christmas" remains the best-selling single of all time, with an estimated 100 million copies sold world-wide. And yet the distortion of Bing Crosby's accomplishments and reputation has been as remarkable as his career. Here, we debunk many of the myths that have circulated since the singer's … [Read more...] about Redeeming Bing Crosby,
the Voice of Christmas
When Irish Eyes Are Smiling
By Thomas Hauser, Contributor
The world has been enriched by many distinctly Irish songs. “Danny Boy” and “MacNamara’s Band” are among the diverse offerings. But no song is more deeply embedded in hearts than “When Irish Eyes Are Smiling.” The history of “When Irish Eyes Are Smiling” begins with Chauncey Olcott. Olcott’s mother, Margaret Doyle, was born in Ireland. In the 1840s, when she was eight, her … [Read more...] about When Irish Eyes Are Smiling
Irish American Musician Advocates for Syria
Dylan Connor is an Irish American singer/songwriter who, inspired by his Syrian wife, Reem Alhariri Connor, has become a celebrated activist for Syria and its refugees. Connor, who is the first cousin of Robert Downey, Jr., has heightened awareness of the Syrian crisis through four solo albums including the 2014 charity album, Blood like Fire (Songs for Syria), all proceeds … [Read more...] about Irish American Musician Advocates for Syria
Forward the Music of the Gael
There’s more to piping than meets the ear. Kristin McGowan talks to Joe McGonigal, the highly sought-after musician and teacher, about his upcoming plans and the influence of his grandfather on the growth of pipe bands in the United States. Once the St. Patrick’s Day parade season is over, some pipe bands take a break for the next round of summer parades, while others gear up … [Read more...] about Forward the Music of the Gael