It’s pretty impressive to be know as the “Jimi Hendrix of the accordion,” although probably more so impressive if you live in Ireland. On this St. Patrick’s Day, Ireland’s own Liam O’ Connor will be jigging it out with traditional Irish music to get your Patty’s day groove on. He joined is for our 5GB series before he starts spreading his luck around.
What was the first gig you ever went to?
As a young person I enjoyed lots of local gigs around my home area of North Cork with many well known traditional musicians. It is from these, including my father and Mother, that I gained my first love of music. The first big professional gig I attended was U2 Live in Párc Uí Caoimhe, Cork Ireland. To this day I include a cover of U2’s ‘”Still Haven’t Found What I Am Looking For” in my performances.
What is the best gig that you ever played/performed at?
I would split this into my time as lead musician with Michael Flately’s Lord of the Dance where Radio City Music Hall in New York. As a solo performer it has to be Croke Park Dublin at the All Ireland Hurling Final in front of 80,000 people. I have been lucky to play at 6 All Ireland Finals in both hurling and football. (Ireland’s Superbowl)
What is the best gig you have ever been to?
Michael Jackson was rightly named The King of Pop. His shows were experiences and his ability to entertain is something that really resonates with me as a performer.
Gig you would most like to play?
I have great hopes that one of my forthcoming albums will be nominated for a Grammy and to play at those awards would be great. But the gig that I would really love to perform is at half time in the Super Bowl.
What would be the lineup for your dream gig?
Paul Wertico on drums, Bella Fleck on Banjo and Mark O’Connor on Fiddle, Jerry Douglas on Dobro, John Themis Musical director and Guitar, Pat Metheny on Guitar, Ian Parker on Keyboards, Alison Krauss on Fiddle & Vocals, Van Morrison on Sax and Vocals. My daughter Saoirse on concertina, Sons Oisín and Cillian on Bodhrán hand drums.
Catch Liam O’Connor tomorrow night at the Buckhead Theater
