1947 – 2016 Johan Cruijff
“Football is simple, playing simple football is most difficult”
Christy's reply
Fair Play. John…you remind me of Harry Fay….he was a pure genius at the ball…he could jink, solo, turn on a penny, bedazzle corner backs, frustrate defenders,he could flick a penny in the air and ,as it hit the ground, flick it with his toe and send it straight back up again,he could kick points from any direction and find the back of the net at will…. he could lilt a tune and loved the songs, Harry was from Wicklow but came to Kildare where he played for my home club Moorefield GFC and also,at Senior County level,for Kildare…
Poor Harry died by the side of the road between Naas and Kilcullen…..he is not often remembered….
I started the process of clearing out my desk in work last week and came across my ticket for Planxty in concert in the Waterfront on 19th January 2005. You, Donal Lunny, Andy Irvine and Liam O’ Flynn… it was wonderful. Our friend was recovering from a serious illness – his wife bought tickets when he was diagnosed and said that she had faith we would all be together to see you all in concert. She was right and we will all be together again in the Waterfront September 2016. I am currently listening to Raggle Taggle Gypsy/Tabhair dom do laimh – Planxty 1973 (You tube) and it brought me back to our radiogram in the front room and the love of the link between the two songs. Yesterday I had to go for a difficult medical procedure in the Royal Hospital, Falls Road and all went well. During the process whilst on gas and air it turned out that the nurse holding my had was from Omagh, Co Tyrone and will also be at your concert in September I told her about my song the fair fields of Tyrone and in the midst of all I recited the verse about my dad…working in Belfast ship yard, Cobh of Cork and Glasgow dry docks etc.. It was a surreal experience but thank God I recited it and did not attempt to sing it! Anyhow your ears must have been burning. Kind regards Mary Oh one more thing I remember we were at one of your concerts in the early 70’s and a helicopter hovered directly,
throughout over the leisure centre and the beam shone down over the crowd…it was either Andersonstown or Whiterock Road!. enough of my waffle!
Christy's reply
I remember the beam from the chopper but can never be precise as to what venue we were in….I have a feeling it was a smaller venue..the same night the Brits actually came into the venue duringthe gig,,,in full black up..I stopped what I was singing and went into Irish Ways,Irish Laws…it was an amazing few minutes..the audience were comepletely silent..I got a feeling that the Squaddies were ashamed but I could be wrong
ps
As I was putting away the Plainsong/Farina CD,I saw a sleevenote quote that I’d overlooked before.Bearing in mind Farina’s premature demise,the following sentiments (in a letter to his father)are ultra poignant…
In life itself,apart from the beliefs in what comes before or after it,there is something magnificent.There is something to be found in life that can give so much to a person that he feels that he could swell up and then just burst.That ‘something’ is simply the act of living life to the fullest.
Hi Christy
Great replies to readers and sentiments that will be widely appreciated,I’m sure.
At times of tension,its great to retreat into music and words.This week for me,its Richard Farina,via Plainsong’s classy tribute album.,Its a culmination of Iain Matthews and Andy Roberts decades long campaign of championing the music of Richard (and Mimi) Farina.
‘The Falcon’ is a masterpiece of imagery and there’s a great RF quote
‘The right chords,in the wrong order,together with a wish for something good,can get you just about anything’
Enjoy gigs,an Easter break, then your return to the home from home…
All good wishes,
Dave
Christy's reply
I have this feeling that I met Richard and Mimi Farina in Dublin circa 1972….I recall Andy Roberts playing at Lisdoonvarna Festival in the early 80s…he played with 3 different Bands each time wearing a different outfit…would this be the same Andy that you reference ?
Thanks so much Christy for listening to my song below and your reponse. The local committee here are working away like beavers.and we will be unveiling a statue in July in her memory.
Keep her motoring Christy. You have brought so much joy and education through your songs to many hearts over a long period of time….
If only Kildare could win a A.I. for you!!! 60 years is a long time.
See you in the Bord Gais in May!!!
Many more years of health and happiness to you, Declan and families.
Shay Connolly
Christy's reply
its 88 years since Sam rested on The Plains but we are a patient tribe in The Shortgrass
Recently we saw Glen Hansard at the Palladium and Mick Flannery at the Albert Hall. Such great performers. But those rooms instil a quiet fear in the audience. So to that end I was forced to suppress my whooping until Guildford, Brighton , Canterbury , and the Festival Hall of Royalness. Sure you’ll hear me before you see me! I’m not going to Cheltenham. I went there once to take the waters with a long haired lothario and don’t remember the rest. His charms and those of Cheltenham faded. Hope you and Mr Divine have fun on the way over. Xx
Christy's reply
tried the Palladium one Sunday Night in the 80s ….Alberts Hall a few times….I’d prefer The Forum in Kentish Town but it seems to have fallen off the gig list….the RFH manages to be a serious concert hall without any elitist snobshite that often prevails in certain aloof quarters….let there be no whoops supressed anytime you grace a gig of ours….I’ve booked Ruby Walsh to Saddle up in Cheltenham
Hello Christy,
All the comments on your guestbook are so peaceful , it ‘seems another world, friendly loving people, beiing gracefully about the fact they’ve had the opportunity to see you live.
And then all those horrible things that are happening all over the world and yesterday in our little country. It makes me very very sad. What to tell our children , is there ever gone be a time we can feel safe?
Anyway your guestbook is given me great comfort and in June we will come to Wexford no terrorist will keep us away from you!!
Peaceful greetings Chris
Christy's reply
Dear Chris,Thank you for sharing with us on what must be dark days in Belgium….we are shocked by the violent acts perpetrated upon you….I hope there will come a time when your children will feel safe in the love you show them….there have been dark days of violence here in the not-too-distant past.. today we live in hope for more peaceful times ahead…..
Hi Christy,
You have heard this all before I suppose – I have just written a song called ‘Margaret Can We Say Hello’
Margaret Keogh, a member of Cumann Na mBan and Congradh Na Gaeilge was 21 years old when she was executed outside her door in 20 Stella Gardens by British forces on the 10th July 1921 just hours before the Truce between the IRA and the British was announced which was to start at noon on the 11th July 1921 ending the War of Independence. Just a few hours before this ceasefire was due to begin at 11.15pm on the night of 10th July 1921 Margaret was shot after answering a knock on her door. She died in St Patrick Dunnes hospital the following morning hours after the Truce set in.
She got a full military funeral but the Civil War broke out almost immediately after and she was forgotten about and now lies in a pauper’s grave in Glasnevin. All this came to light when Historian, Padraic Og O’Rourke published a book ‘Truce, Murder, Myth and the last days of the Irish War of Independence’’ last month. The people around Ringsend and Irishtown were flabbergasted as we had never heard a word of this before and it seems neither did anyone else.
This Margaret Keogh is not to be mixed up with Margaret Keogh who was the first woman to be killed in 1916 whilst nursing the wounded. So Christy, it is now known that the first person to die and the last person to die in the struggle of 1916 to 1921 were both women and both were named Margaret Keogh, an amazing historical phenomenon unknown until now.
Here in Ringsend we have set up a local committee to have a headstone put on her grave and a monument erected in Irishtown in her memory.
When I sat down to write this song Christy I had you in mind in almost every lone and have visualised you singing it every time I play it. I recorded just myself and my guitar in the local Community Centre and through my smokey and sandy voice box and throw in some very hard drinking (but off it almost 16 years now) they stuck it up on you tube. (I made 3 mistakes on it)
The link is https://youtu.be/26fFE0J9cmw
Or just type in Margaret Keogh Song on You Tube.
I would love you to do this song Christy!!!.
Please, Please Christy have a listen, if not for me then for Margaret RIP
Best regards
Shay Connolly
Christy's reply
Shay….Thank you very much for sharing your song in memory of Volunteer Margaret Keogh.You have written and recorded a fitting memorial. I had not heard of either of these women before. I liked your song and singing and hopefully will hear you sing it “live” some day
Oo wee Christy we are greasing up the bun tins in readiness of your imminent eminence. I was at first shocked and then warmed to see your Cambridge appearance in the tap. Needless to say we shall be in attendance. The memory of Mullingar still in my bones and then of course Kilruddery as fresh as a daisy. On that occasion there was a rather intoxicated old lady next to me who kept shouting out ‘Hello Donal Lunny’. Says I ‘No that’s Declan Sinnott’. She says ‘No the dark haired fella is Declan Sinnott.’. I says ‘No no no that’s Jim Higgins’. Says she ‘You’re wrong. And that’s Mary Black in the back.’ Then I remembered my Dad saying you’ll never change the minds of those who have God on their side, so I made Mick stand next to her. Good travels. Pilates and tofu for you. xx
Christy's reply
We’ll keep the Pilates and Tofu in our strict regime…. but could be tempted were a few of thon buns to appear along the way..
for many years I was that intoxicant…could be told nothing by no one….fair play to Mick for blocking her confused cacophony from your gentle ears…..might we see ye along the way ? Dont Forget Your Buns….
I brought my wife to the Athlone gig (Her First) which we enjoyed immensely. My highlight was “Missing You” which is such a powerful song and it reminds me of times i spent abroad. I think i’ll have to add it to my own set. I would’ve loved to hear “Beeswing” alas the fella up the front got the requests in quicker! and i was too hoarse to shout after playing a load of gigs on Paddy’s Day, but there’s always next time I suppose. I was talking to your Merchandise man before and after the gig and I passed him on something for you, I hope you received it. Till the next time all the best and keep her lit!
Cheers
Christy's reply
Morra Capel St….pity about Beeswing in Athlone…its almost always in the set…but we been squeezing some new ones in lately and a few have to fall off the edge….you remind me of earlier times when you mention a “Load of Gigs on Paddy’s Day” that was often my own experience in earlier times….did 4 gigs in Melbourne one Paddys Day in the 80s…same story in London and Manchester in the 60s…porter flyin and paddy cryin
Not much of a year for snow here, Christy, so maybe bring some timely Easter Snow with you.
Travelling by night is what I usually do but it’ll be a daylight run for me, up to Canterbury. I don’t mind what you sing, and don’t want to miss a favourite I’ve half forgotten or a song I’ve not yet met, because you brought a touch of late winter weather with you.
Weather or whether, I expect to be there ;~)
Christy's reply
seldom hit a “new” Town these days but this will be our Canterbury debut..love the sound of its name..I hear bells ringing
Dear Christy,
Great to see you have a section like this on your website, fair play! More musicians need to take a page out of your book.
Anyway, myself and 10 others are heading over from Cavan to see you in London on the 6th of April, my first time getting to see you and I’m very much looking forward to it.
We’ve been arguing about making a sign with a request or two for you, but since I seen this section I thought it’d be a more likely route to hearing our favorites!
We’ve all agreed on a shortlist of three classics (but underplayed) gems of yours, and if you could play any of them it would be fantastic.
The Hackler from Grousehall
Paddy on the Road
Spancil Hill
Thanks a million Christy, hope all is well!
Yours,
Ronan from Cavan
Christy's reply
Ronan…The Hackler had an outing last year…maybe in the Slieve Russell…Spancilhill gets a fairly regular airing the past 2 years having appeared back in the set unplanned nor called for…it might get a run out by the Thames…Paddy on The Road has not featured for decades.
“I was on The Hydro Dam the day that Jack McCann
got the better of his stammer in a week.
He fell from the Shutterin Jamb and that poor auld stutterin man
was never ever more inclined to speak”
I still remember Dominic Behan singing that to me in London in 1968…he bamboozled me with a rake of songs I had never heard before
My good friend John Collins from Elphin in Co.Roscommon penned an excellent song for the trip we are taking to France this summer to support the Boys in Green. The lyrics are excellent and he used the tune to Weekend in Amsterdam for the song! We decided to record it on St.Patricks Day, he is singing and playing the guitar, and is accompanied by Máire Ní Loideain from Trim on the bosca ceoil.
I hope you don’t mind us using the tune, it’s now on YouTube and it’s called “The Ballad of Euro 16”. If you have a few minutes give it a listen, you might even give it your seal of approval… http://youtu.be/j1jaw4ICP2U
Mise le Meas,
Fionnán
Christy's reply
The melody was written by the late Barney Rushe of Sallynoggin for his classic song “The Crack was 90 in The Isle of Man”. Barney also penned “Nancy Spain” and shared both songs with me back in 1969. I was fortunate enough to get his permission to record both these songs 40 years ago
Paul McCormack of Newbridge subsequently used Barney’s tune for “Weekend in Amsterdam” another song which I consider to be a classic of the genre.Excellence is seldom achieved and by a very few
Only the passage of time and legions of listeners can offer the “seal of approval” to any song.
Good luck in France.Go easy on the Ricard and Pastis. Tis lethal gear.
Many thanks to yourself, Declan and Jimmy for a fantastic show in Athlone, Christy., and thanks for signing the songbook., take care and we’ll see you again back in Derry in September.
Christy's reply
glad your trip went well from the Waters of The Foyle to The Broad Majestic Shannon
Thanks for your reply Christy. There’s many interesting discussions to be had these days. I’d agree that its hard to explain how some people get embraced.
The way I’m looking at it, I think sometimes we give certain people too hard a time when they don’t deserve it. The business man is the last presidential race always struck me as a really good man through media but I can’t say I know him personally to vouch for him. Even if he wasn’t the best man for the Irish president’s job, I think some people slammed him because of his business background only. Does that mean we should not encourage young people to want to set-up businesses when they are older? That society would think of them as being greedy and bad if they wanted to do that? Bono should be an Irish hero but many people focus in on the tax thing. They don’t focus on any of the good he does. He also choose to stay here and raise his children as Irish. That’s by no means a sacrifice as Ireland is one of the most beautiful countries in the world but many famous Irish celebs have moved their families to London, New York, LA etc. Whenever Bono or his family goes to shop, they are contributing to the Irish economy. The rolling stones also moved their tax affairs to Holland but yet they’re still cool with no mention of it anywhere.
p.s. looking forward to your new album, tis the month to be talking all things Irish
Christy's reply
If you are referring to Sean Gallagher, in the last Presidential Election Sean was leading the field and would probably have won the day but for revealations about his poltical past not previously known. He was “winning the day”, based entirely upon his “business background”. Only last-minute revealations about some earlier involvement with FF electioneering and other allegations cost him the Presidency. That said, Michael D.Higgins has occupied the Presidency with great diligence, dignity and decorum ( all the D’s)
Bono may very well be the most lauded rock star in the world. He is a brilliant singer, he fronts a great Band, he is a creative spirit and a wonderful artist…sure, he and the band get a “bit of stick” now and then but they are big boys….(mea culpa,I too aimed a verse at their tax arrangements in The Lowlands Low……. I doubt they even heard about it and, if they did, I’d imagine it would flow off them like water off the pigs back, wherever they might choose to be livin)
CM(70)
How are you keeping? What a carry on for St. Patricks day ,
green icecream , wigs ,glasses ,tricolours, the starry plough, shamrocks and clover,parades ,music, high and low mass, bacon and cabbage ,hung dáil,1916 ,gaeilge ‘gus bearla ,dancing and singing,TG4 ,RNAG
The next day out of nowhere with the mackerel to port a monster a big fish 250 kg Yellow fin Tuna,I could fit my head inside his mouth. every tom dick and harry are up to their necks in Tuna, no talk of tuna before but now everyones talking about Tuna ..and a yellow fin tuna. I think I hear the magpies discussing the taste of yellow tuna in the tree.
even the fox has some “and the little ones chewed on the bones oh” ( the fox went out on the chilly night ..ever hear that song?)
CS (11)
PS Tuna is under special conservation status. But when caught by accident they are enjoyed rather than dumped overboard.
Christy's reply
Morra CS(11) I think Burl Ives used sing that verse you mention.He was as American Folk Singer and Actor. I may have glimpsed him in a movie with Paul Newman last night.
Our poor frogs are under attack from the bleddy Magpies but nare a Yellow Tuna to be seen on our road.We do have a fellow with a Harley Davidson who roars up the road at dawn each morn and wakes us all far too early. I have lain in wait manys the morn with my catapult but hes too fast for me. I’m looking into getting a “stinger”.Tried Harvey Norman and the local Parish Priest who thought it was a drink made with Brandy and Creme de Menthe.
Playing a concert this week in Liberty Hall this week with Damo, Matt Molloy, Paula Meehan, Mick Blake, StephenMurphy, Louise Mulcahy, Sean McKeon….run by SIPTU to commemorate Seactain na Cásca it will be attended by Michael D.agus a Bhean Chéile
After that its off across the Briney with us for a brace of gigs i Sasana. I like my trips “over”.Plenty of old pals there to track down.Lots of old ground to cover.
I hope ye are all well wesht, that the bit of Summer be heading your way….
Did you ever see anything like the carry on in the Dáil…is there any hope for us atallatall as Miley would say years ago
That was a cracker of a gig in Athlone, heard some beauties last night, and I never , ever get tired of hearing these songs, old and new..thank you and Declan, Jimmy, and all the outfits these past few years, they have just been amazing…
We had a lovely afternoon sitting around the radio….The Duke of Spring, The Groover from Vancouver, had a 2 hour special on his show this afternoon, with the last hour turned over to yourself as his special featured artist. Listeners gathered from around the world, Tralee, The Bay, Scotland, UK and the Rock, Co. Clare too…and many more. We all agreed it was magic radio, as Duke played some humdingers..so much so, that his selection had some of us listeners in tears around the world. Songs meaning different things to different people, but all united in song..The Hamburg trilogy, Natives, Ruby, Viva live from Barras…and lots of others….I think the mot in the Bay nearly had to close the shop…
I am now sowing the seeds for a gathering, also for Doug to get himself back to this Island again…I said it today on line, it was like we were all sitting together listening in a room with a cuppa, all communicating…and I suppose we were…Hup the Gathering and thank you
Sheesh, Christy, why did no-one tell me that April 3rd (earworm alert) isn’t Easter Sunday, with or without snow?
I couldn’t figure out why you’d be in Canterbury on Easter Day. However it’s not a million miles from here and I might be able to get to the cathedral city on the first Sunday in April.
Will you be around? We keep hitting birthday milestones without catching up, but love and blessings as ever to ya xx
Christy's reply
I’ll be there but passing through..we always travel after gigs when the roads are quiet…if you are comin to the gig let me know and I will try and polish up Easter Snow…it has not featured for a few seasons…my first visit to England’s Canterbury…I’ve played the New Zealand City a few times..always good to play a new town, especially one so ancient ……in the cool of evening
Thanks Christy for choosing Athlone to reveal “Wallflower ” … What a wonderful song, and the audience reaction spoke volumes of what we thought of it.
Congrats and well done.
Ride on
Patsy
Christy's reply
Thanks Patsy…thats 70% of the next album gigged..trying to get it finished these days..we had to re-record 4 tracks…still one to finish…great that the listeners are still coming out to hear the songs..the welcome and the enthusiasm we recieve keeps us going….thank you for all your support and feedback
1947 – 2016 Johan Cruijff
“Football is simple, playing simple football is most difficult”
Fair Play. John…you remind me of Harry Fay….he was a pure genius at the ball…he could jink, solo, turn on a penny, bedazzle corner backs, frustrate defenders,he could flick a penny in the air and ,as it hit the ground, flick it with his toe and send it straight back up again,he could kick points from any direction and find the back of the net at will…. he could lilt a tune and loved the songs, Harry was from Wicklow but came to Kildare where he played for my home club Moorefield GFC and also,at Senior County level,for Kildare…
Poor Harry died by the side of the road between Naas and Kilcullen…..he is not often remembered….
I started the process of clearing out my desk in work last week and came across my ticket for Planxty in concert in the Waterfront on 19th January 2005. You, Donal Lunny, Andy Irvine and Liam O’ Flynn… it was wonderful. Our friend was recovering from a serious illness – his wife bought tickets when he was diagnosed and said that she had faith we would all be together to see you all in concert. She was right and we will all be together again in the Waterfront September 2016. I am currently listening to Raggle Taggle Gypsy/Tabhair dom do laimh – Planxty 1973 (You tube) and it brought me back to our radiogram in the front room and the love of the link between the two songs. Yesterday I had to go for a difficult medical procedure in the Royal Hospital, Falls Road and all went well. During the process whilst on gas and air it turned out that the nurse holding my had was from Omagh, Co Tyrone and will also be at your concert in September I told her about my song the fair fields of Tyrone and in the midst of all I recited the verse about my dad…working in Belfast ship yard, Cobh of Cork and Glasgow dry docks etc.. It was a surreal experience but thank God I recited it and did not attempt to sing it! Anyhow your ears must have been burning. Kind regards Mary Oh one more thing I remember we were at one of your concerts in the early 70’s and a helicopter hovered directly,
throughout over the leisure centre and the beam shone down over the crowd…it was either Andersonstown or Whiterock Road!. enough of my waffle!
I remember the beam from the chopper but can never be precise as to what venue we were in….I have a feeling it was a smaller venue..the same night the Brits actually came into the venue duringthe gig,,,in full black up..I stopped what I was singing and went into Irish Ways,Irish Laws…it was an amazing few minutes..the audience were comepletely silent..I got a feeling that the Squaddies were ashamed but I could be wrong
ps
As I was putting away the Plainsong/Farina CD,I saw a sleevenote quote that I’d overlooked before.Bearing in mind Farina’s premature demise,the following sentiments (in a letter to his father)are ultra poignant…
In life itself,apart from the beliefs in what comes before or after it,there is something magnificent.There is something to be found in life that can give so much to a person that he feels that he could swell up and then just burst.That ‘something’ is simply the act of living life to the fullest.
Hi Christy
Great replies to readers and sentiments that will be widely appreciated,I’m sure.
At times of tension,its great to retreat into music and words.This week for me,its Richard Farina,via Plainsong’s classy tribute album.,Its a culmination of Iain Matthews and Andy Roberts decades long campaign of championing the music of Richard (and Mimi) Farina.
‘The Falcon’ is a masterpiece of imagery and there’s a great RF quote
‘The right chords,in the wrong order,together with a wish for something good,can get you just about anything’
Enjoy gigs,an Easter break, then your return to the home from home…
All good wishes,
Dave
I have this feeling that I met Richard and Mimi Farina in Dublin circa 1972….I recall Andy Roberts playing at Lisdoonvarna Festival in the early 80s…he played with 3 different Bands each time wearing a different outfit…would this be the same Andy that you reference ?
Thanks so much Christy for listening to my song below and your reponse. The local committee here are working away like beavers.and we will be unveiling a statue in July in her memory.
Keep her motoring Christy. You have brought so much joy and education through your songs to many hearts over a long period of time….
If only Kildare could win a A.I. for you!!! 60 years is a long time.
See you in the Bord Gais in May!!!
Many more years of health and happiness to you, Declan and families.
Shay Connolly
its 88 years since Sam rested on The Plains but we are a patient tribe in The Shortgrass
Recently we saw Glen Hansard at the Palladium and Mick Flannery at the Albert Hall. Such great performers. But those rooms instil a quiet fear in the audience. So to that end I was forced to suppress my whooping until Guildford, Brighton , Canterbury , and the Festival Hall of Royalness. Sure you’ll hear me before you see me! I’m not going to Cheltenham. I went there once to take the waters with a long haired lothario and don’t remember the rest. His charms and those of Cheltenham faded. Hope you and Mr Divine have fun on the way over. Xx
tried the Palladium one Sunday Night in the 80s ….Alberts Hall a few times….I’d prefer The Forum in Kentish Town but it seems to have fallen off the gig list….the RFH manages to be a serious concert hall without any elitist snobshite that often prevails in certain aloof quarters….let there be no whoops supressed anytime you grace a gig of ours….I’ve booked Ruby Walsh to Saddle up in Cheltenham
Hello Christy,
All the comments on your guestbook are so peaceful , it ‘seems another world, friendly loving people, beiing gracefully about the fact they’ve had the opportunity to see you live.
And then all those horrible things that are happening all over the world and yesterday in our little country. It makes me very very sad. What to tell our children , is there ever gone be a time we can feel safe?
Anyway your guestbook is given me great comfort and in June we will come to Wexford no terrorist will keep us away from you!!
Peaceful greetings Chris
Dear Chris,Thank you for sharing with us on what must be dark days in Belgium….we are shocked by the violent acts perpetrated upon you….I hope there will come a time when your children will feel safe in the love you show them….there have been dark days of violence here in the not-too-distant past.. today we live in hope for more peaceful times ahead…..
Hi Christy,
You have heard this all before I suppose – I have just written a song called ‘Margaret Can We Say Hello’
Margaret Keogh, a member of Cumann Na mBan and Congradh Na Gaeilge was 21 years old when she was executed outside her door in 20 Stella Gardens by British forces on the 10th July 1921 just hours before the Truce between the IRA and the British was announced which was to start at noon on the 11th July 1921 ending the War of Independence. Just a few hours before this ceasefire was due to begin at 11.15pm on the night of 10th July 1921 Margaret was shot after answering a knock on her door. She died in St Patrick Dunnes hospital the following morning hours after the Truce set in.
She got a full military funeral but the Civil War broke out almost immediately after and she was forgotten about and now lies in a pauper’s grave in Glasnevin. All this came to light when Historian, Padraic Og O’Rourke published a book ‘Truce, Murder, Myth and the last days of the Irish War of Independence’’ last month. The people around Ringsend and Irishtown were flabbergasted as we had never heard a word of this before and it seems neither did anyone else.
This Margaret Keogh is not to be mixed up with Margaret Keogh who was the first woman to be killed in 1916 whilst nursing the wounded. So Christy, it is now known that the first person to die and the last person to die in the struggle of 1916 to 1921 were both women and both were named Margaret Keogh, an amazing historical phenomenon unknown until now.
Here in Ringsend we have set up a local committee to have a headstone put on her grave and a monument erected in Irishtown in her memory.
When I sat down to write this song Christy I had you in mind in almost every lone and have visualised you singing it every time I play it. I recorded just myself and my guitar in the local Community Centre and through my smokey and sandy voice box and throw in some very hard drinking (but off it almost 16 years now) they stuck it up on you tube. (I made 3 mistakes on it)
The link is https://youtu.be/26fFE0J9cmw
Or just type in Margaret Keogh Song on You Tube.
I would love you to do this song Christy!!!.
Please, Please Christy have a listen, if not for me then for Margaret RIP
Best regards
Shay Connolly
Shay….Thank you very much for sharing your song in memory of Volunteer Margaret Keogh.You have written and recorded a fitting memorial. I had not heard of either of these women before. I liked your song and singing and hopefully will hear you sing it “live” some day
Oo wee Christy we are greasing up the bun tins in readiness of your imminent eminence. I was at first shocked and then warmed to see your Cambridge appearance in the tap. Needless to say we shall be in attendance. The memory of Mullingar still in my bones and then of course Kilruddery as fresh as a daisy. On that occasion there was a rather intoxicated old lady next to me who kept shouting out ‘Hello Donal Lunny’. Says I ‘No that’s Declan Sinnott’. She says ‘No the dark haired fella is Declan Sinnott.’. I says ‘No no no that’s Jim Higgins’. Says she ‘You’re wrong. And that’s Mary Black in the back.’ Then I remembered my Dad saying you’ll never change the minds of those who have God on their side, so I made Mick stand next to her. Good travels. Pilates and tofu for you. xx
We’ll keep the Pilates and Tofu in our strict regime…. but could be tempted were a few of thon buns to appear along the way..
for many years I was that intoxicant…could be told nothing by no one….fair play to Mick for blocking her confused cacophony from your gentle ears…..might we see ye along the way ? Dont Forget Your Buns….
Howaya Christy
I brought my wife to the Athlone gig (Her First) which we enjoyed immensely. My highlight was “Missing You” which is such a powerful song and it reminds me of times i spent abroad. I think i’ll have to add it to my own set. I would’ve loved to hear “Beeswing” alas the fella up the front got the requests in quicker! and i was too hoarse to shout after playing a load of gigs on Paddy’s Day, but there’s always next time I suppose. I was talking to your Merchandise man before and after the gig and I passed him on something for you, I hope you received it. Till the next time all the best and keep her lit!
Cheers
Morra Capel St….pity about Beeswing in Athlone…its almost always in the set…but we been squeezing some new ones in lately and a few have to fall off the edge….you remind me of earlier times when you mention a “Load of Gigs on Paddy’s Day” that was often my own experience in earlier times….did 4 gigs in Melbourne one Paddys Day in the 80s…same story in London and Manchester in the 60s…porter flyin and paddy cryin
Not much of a year for snow here, Christy, so maybe bring some timely Easter Snow with you.
Travelling by night is what I usually do but it’ll be a daylight run for me, up to Canterbury. I don’t mind what you sing, and don’t want to miss a favourite I’ve half forgotten or a song I’ve not yet met, because you brought a touch of late winter weather with you.
Weather or whether, I expect to be there ;~)
seldom hit a “new” Town these days but this will be our Canterbury debut..love the sound of its name..I hear bells ringing
Dear Christy,
Great to see you have a section like this on your website, fair play! More musicians need to take a page out of your book.
Anyway, myself and 10 others are heading over from Cavan to see you in London on the 6th of April, my first time getting to see you and I’m very much looking forward to it.
We’ve been arguing about making a sign with a request or two for you, but since I seen this section I thought it’d be a more likely route to hearing our favorites!
We’ve all agreed on a shortlist of three classics (but underplayed) gems of yours, and if you could play any of them it would be fantastic.
The Hackler from Grousehall
Paddy on the Road
Spancil Hill
Thanks a million Christy, hope all is well!
Yours,
Ronan from Cavan
Ronan…The Hackler had an outing last year…maybe in the Slieve Russell…Spancilhill gets a fairly regular airing the past 2 years having appeared back in the set unplanned nor called for…it might get a run out by the Thames…Paddy on The Road has not featured for decades.
“I was on The Hydro Dam the day that Jack McCann
got the better of his stammer in a week.
He fell from the Shutterin Jamb and that poor auld stutterin man
was never ever more inclined to speak”
I still remember Dominic Behan singing that to me in London in 1968…he bamboozled me with a rake of songs I had never heard before
Hi Christy,
My good friend John Collins from Elphin in Co.Roscommon penned an excellent song for the trip we are taking to France this summer to support the Boys in Green. The lyrics are excellent and he used the tune to Weekend in Amsterdam for the song! We decided to record it on St.Patricks Day, he is singing and playing the guitar, and is accompanied by Máire Ní Loideain from Trim on the bosca ceoil.
I hope you don’t mind us using the tune, it’s now on YouTube and it’s called “The Ballad of Euro 16”. If you have a few minutes give it a listen, you might even give it your seal of approval…
http://youtu.be/j1jaw4ICP2U
Mise le Meas,
Fionnán
The melody was written by the late Barney Rushe of Sallynoggin for his classic song “The Crack was 90 in The Isle of Man”. Barney also penned “Nancy Spain” and shared both songs with me back in 1969. I was fortunate enough to get his permission to record both these songs 40 years ago
Paul McCormack of Newbridge subsequently used Barney’s tune for “Weekend in Amsterdam” another song which I consider to be a classic of the genre.Excellence is seldom achieved and by a very few
Only the passage of time and legions of listeners can offer the “seal of approval” to any song.
Good luck in France.Go easy on the Ricard and Pastis. Tis lethal gear.
Many thanks to yourself, Declan and Jimmy for a fantastic show in Athlone, Christy., and thanks for signing the songbook., take care and we’ll see you again back in Derry in September.
glad your trip went well from the Waters of The Foyle to The Broad Majestic Shannon
Thanks for your reply Christy. There’s many interesting discussions to be had these days. I’d agree that its hard to explain how some people get embraced.
The way I’m looking at it, I think sometimes we give certain people too hard a time when they don’t deserve it. The business man is the last presidential race always struck me as a really good man through media but I can’t say I know him personally to vouch for him. Even if he wasn’t the best man for the Irish president’s job, I think some people slammed him because of his business background only. Does that mean we should not encourage young people to want to set-up businesses when they are older? That society would think of them as being greedy and bad if they wanted to do that? Bono should be an Irish hero but many people focus in on the tax thing. They don’t focus on any of the good he does. He also choose to stay here and raise his children as Irish. That’s by no means a sacrifice as Ireland is one of the most beautiful countries in the world but many famous Irish celebs have moved their families to London, New York, LA etc. Whenever Bono or his family goes to shop, they are contributing to the Irish economy. The rolling stones also moved their tax affairs to Holland but yet they’re still cool with no mention of it anywhere.
p.s. looking forward to your new album, tis the month to be talking all things Irish
If you are referring to Sean Gallagher, in the last Presidential Election Sean was leading the field and would probably have won the day but for revealations about his poltical past not previously known. He was “winning the day”, based entirely upon his “business background”. Only last-minute revealations about some earlier involvement with FF electioneering and other allegations cost him the Presidency. That said, Michael D.Higgins has occupied the Presidency with great diligence, dignity and decorum ( all the D’s)
Bono may very well be the most lauded rock star in the world. He is a brilliant singer, he fronts a great Band, he is a creative spirit and a wonderful artist…sure, he and the band get a “bit of stick” now and then but they are big boys….(mea culpa,I too aimed a verse at their tax arrangements in The Lowlands Low……. I doubt they even heard about it and, if they did, I’d imagine it would flow off them like water off the pigs back, wherever they might choose to be livin)
If the stones are still cool …thats cool
CM(70)
How are you keeping? What a carry on for St. Patricks day ,
green icecream , wigs ,glasses ,tricolours, the starry plough, shamrocks and clover,parades ,music, high and low mass, bacon and cabbage ,hung dáil,1916 ,gaeilge ‘gus bearla ,dancing and singing,TG4 ,RNAG
The next day out of nowhere with the mackerel to port a monster a big fish 250 kg Yellow fin Tuna,I could fit my head inside his mouth. every tom dick and harry are up to their necks in Tuna, no talk of tuna before but now everyones talking about Tuna ..and a yellow fin tuna. I think I hear the magpies discussing the taste of yellow tuna in the tree.
even the fox has some “and the little ones chewed on the bones oh” ( the fox went out on the chilly night ..ever hear that song?)
CS (11)
PS Tuna is under special conservation status. But when caught by accident they are enjoyed rather than dumped overboard.
Morra CS(11) I think Burl Ives used sing that verse you mention.He was as American Folk Singer and Actor. I may have glimpsed him in a movie with Paul Newman last night.
Our poor frogs are under attack from the bleddy Magpies but nare a Yellow Tuna to be seen on our road.We do have a fellow with a Harley Davidson who roars up the road at dawn each morn and wakes us all far too early. I have lain in wait manys the morn with my catapult but hes too fast for me. I’m looking into getting a “stinger”.Tried Harvey Norman and the local Parish Priest who thought it was a drink made with Brandy and Creme de Menthe.
Playing a concert this week in Liberty Hall this week with Damo, Matt Molloy, Paula Meehan, Mick Blake, StephenMurphy, Louise Mulcahy, Sean McKeon….run by SIPTU to commemorate Seactain na Cásca it will be attended by Michael D.agus a Bhean Chéile
After that its off across the Briney with us for a brace of gigs i Sasana. I like my trips “over”.Plenty of old pals there to track down.Lots of old ground to cover.
I hope ye are all well wesht, that the bit of Summer be heading your way….
Did you ever see anything like the carry on in the Dáil…is there any hope for us atallatall as Miley would say years ago
That was a cracker of a gig in Athlone, heard some beauties last night, and I never , ever get tired of hearing these songs, old and new..thank you and Declan, Jimmy, and all the outfits these past few years, they have just been amazing…
We had a lovely afternoon sitting around the radio….The Duke of Spring, The Groover from Vancouver, had a 2 hour special on his show this afternoon, with the last hour turned over to yourself as his special featured artist. Listeners gathered from around the world, Tralee, The Bay, Scotland, UK and the Rock, Co. Clare too…and many more. We all agreed it was magic radio, as Duke played some humdingers..so much so, that his selection had some of us listeners in tears around the world. Songs meaning different things to different people, but all united in song..The Hamburg trilogy, Natives, Ruby, Viva live from Barras…and lots of others….I think the mot in the Bay nearly had to close the shop…
I am now sowing the seeds for a gathering, also for Doug to get himself back to this Island again…I said it today on line, it was like we were all sitting together listening in a room with a cuppa, all communicating…and I suppose we were…Hup the Gathering and thank you
Its a long long time from Clare to here
Sheesh, Christy, why did no-one tell me that April 3rd (earworm alert) isn’t Easter Sunday, with or without snow?
I couldn’t figure out why you’d be in Canterbury on Easter Day. However it’s not a million miles from here and I might be able to get to the cathedral city on the first Sunday in April.
Will you be around? We keep hitting birthday milestones without catching up, but love and blessings as ever to ya xx
I’ll be there but passing through..we always travel after gigs when the roads are quiet…if you are comin to the gig let me know and I will try and polish up Easter Snow…it has not featured for a few seasons…my first visit to England’s Canterbury…I’ve played the New Zealand City a few times..always good to play a new town, especially one so ancient ……in the cool of evening
Hi Christy
Getting close now to the Guilford concert. Just wondering if there is any chance of getting a picture with you? If not, no worries 🙂
Thanks
Michelle
there is a chance alright..lets see how it all works out…I gotta get tuned up and deliver the songs to all who gather… the main purpose and priority …
Thanks Christy for choosing Athlone to reveal “Wallflower ” … What a wonderful song, and the audience reaction spoke volumes of what we thought of it.
Congrats and well done.
Ride on
Patsy
Thanks Patsy…thats 70% of the next album gigged..trying to get it finished these days..we had to re-record 4 tracks…still one to finish…great that the listeners are still coming out to hear the songs..the welcome and the enthusiasm we recieve keeps us going….thank you for all your support and feedback