The resurgence of traditional Irish music has been called a renaissance — awakening a yearning for identity with a deeply rooted culture of oppression, war, courtship and love, liquor worship and emigration stories honored through song. Dublin-born guitarist and singer-songwriter John Doyle has honored this tradition even as he cultivates it on his latest release Shadow and Light on Compass Records. He joined us for our 5GB series before his show at Steve’s Live Music.
What’s the first gig you ever attended?
It was a concert in rockfield, Coolaney where my fathers family are from in co sligo. A band called Stocktons wing that were well known in Ireland at the time, lovely music. They were also playing traditional irish music which helped solidify my feeling towards the music I love.
What is the best gig that you ever played/performed?
There are many gigs that have been memorable for various reasons but I suppose the one I will alway remember is playing with Liz Carroll for President Obama on St Patricks day a few years ago. It was quite something.
What is the best gig you have ever seen?
I went to see a Taj Mahal gig many years ago when he was doing a blues gig. I thought it was just brilliant.
Gig you would most like to play?
I try and treat all gigs I do with equal merit as much as I can,(besides playing for the President of course!) but there are places and countries I love to play for the experience, the food and the culture of the area. France, Italy, Spain, etc, I do want to go to Australia eventually.
What would be the lineup for your dream gig?
Depends on what type of gig it is of course. For trad stuff,
Donal lunny, arty Mcglynn, danny thompson on bass, Mike McGoldrick, Dolores Keane, Sean Keane on vocals, Donald Shaw, John Mccusker and Liz Carroll on fiddles . I could name a hundred more too. I am in Awe of many musician, not only in the traditional world but from every genre for their musicality and their commitment.
See John Doyle Wednesday, Dec. 5th at Steve’s Live Music!
