For 2,000 years a grandfather could speak to his grandson in his native language, and be understood. For the first time this was no longer true. That was my family and I was the grandson. "From that moment on I would learn to sing in the Irish tongue, a tribute to those who lived on before me." I would learn it the 'old way', by ear, and not as an academic classroom exercise. Researching ancient Irish genealogy, I knew the old way of spelling names in Irish (gaeilge). I had published books in Irish, hosted a Chat and Sing Irish podcast, and led groups to Ireland, so I had a slight foundation on which to build.

Sean Nós

Four years ago this led me to the old way of Irish singing called 'Sean Nós'. Most often it is sung in Irish, solo, learned by ear, in historical context, with an unprocessed sound. 'Non-modal' some say, to the chagrin of many a practiced musician. It was about the song - not the singer, and that seemed perfect, as I had never sung before. This album then, is a shout out to my ancestors, The O'Laughlins; Donahues; Sullivans, Kellihers; Kellys, Kilmartins, Quinns and Rabbits of Kerry and Clare in Ireland. I think they would approve of it, imperfections and all !

Irish Accent

Fittingly, I started learning Joe Heaney songs. Joe was a native speaker, and had a Galway accent from the west coast of Ireland, near my own family origins. That each region would have its own style of song and dance is quite normal. it was clear that his Irish words were not pronounced the way modern Irish is being taught today. In fact, modern Irish would not do justice to the 'old' song. After all, my ancestors spoke with the old accents of the west of Ireland. (Of course, singing in any kind of Irish is a good thing - and those who are fluent speakers have my admiration.).

Purpose

My endeavor is to sing in Irish as a connection to my Irish family heritage, not to become a 'native' speaker. Let my ancestors be the judge ! One of my six podcast series, 'Hello Fada', was an outside look at Irish (gaeilge), encouraging others to become acquainted with it. I support that whole heartedly.

'Danny Boy' Irish

Foolishly, I once remarked to my mother how out of touch and sentimental the old Irish songs were. Well, I was taught a quick lesson on that. It was not just the song itself, which was sung by people who lived a much harder life than I had. It was not just about our family who came from Ireland with the old ways. It was about all the people, all the times- good and bad, and the gatherings that went with it. From 19th century immigrant songs to Tin Pan Alley, the Irish way with a song was still with us - it was just growing in a different direction and with good reason ! My Lord, I stood on the shoulders of giants! From that moment on I realized why these songs touched the soul of millions of people, and I slandered them no more....