Hey Christy, Hope your well. How was your Declan O’rourke gig? : ) xox
Christy's reply
Declan was magnificent…we had to lash over to The Goilin where last nights guest was Barry Gleeson….just back home now after 2 gigs….one with symphony orchestra, the other entirely accapella….my head is reverberating with beautiful sounds…so beautiful that God herself would want to know how they were made
Hello Christy getting ready for the rugby in the morning,Watched the life of Ray gravell the other night,Met him only once and I could feel his passion and kindness,How is the snooker these days I have not played in a while,Bright blue Rose Geraint.
Christy's reply
the couch will get an awful scrummaging in the morning
Hiya Christy. Was paddling peacefully in my kayak in Teelin late last Saturday evening. While softly playing your wonderful ‘Allende’ on d’iPod about ten dolphins appeared, swished around and did a few graceful flips and turns. I reckon they tuned in for the music …… They left once the song ended. Your music continues to inspire. Mind yourself now!
Christy's reply
as a boy I could sing a pinkeen into a jam jar..later we tickled trout and fished for salmon with hurling sticks on the Liffey weir… The best of all was frolicking with Fungi in Dingle Dangle…the fecker asked me to sing Good Vibrations
I was forcibly introduced to you during a skiing trip in January…my friend sang Casey so much that I found myself singing it while attempting to avoid falling off a mountain in France. The upshot of this was coming to see you in Derry last week….and I loved it! I have come to the realisation that folk music is what I love…songs that tell a story. Thank you – and my friend – for the reintroduction to the genre 🙂
Christy's reply
I would have hoped that you were tempted or even seduced rather then forced…whatever the reason for your listening you are welcome to the fold…all singers need good listeners. Many of us really appreciate the part you listeners play in our singing lives..
Good to hear the insight into your songwriting ideas. Reminded me of the story Arlo Guthrie tells as to how songs are already there and fully formed and you just gotta catch them – but that its better to not fish downstream from Bob Dylan !!
Really enjoyed the Derry gigs – great to hear you and Declan in such good form. Especially loved Metropolitan Avenue.
Keep well.
Christy's reply
I loved when Arlo told that story some years back…he described fishing for songs downstream from Dylan, he shouted ” Hey Bob, try throwing a few of the small ones back in”
Hi Christy, do you have any plans for a gig here in Kildare over the summer? Still in love with your music and always will………..
Christy's reply
nothing firmed up for Newbridge yet Katie…I was on The Hill of Allen on Wednesday…lingered for a while in Milltown Churchyard…rambled around Blacktrench and Clongorey….onover to The Pollardstown Fen and ended up on the Liffey bank towards Athgarvan…keep an eye on the gig page…I am determined to sing in The Shortgrass before the year is out
Hello Christy, Not sure if you want to talk about this here (no answer,no problem), but I would love to know a little bit about your approach to the wonderful art of songwriting. What I am interested in is where does it all start for you. Do you begin with a lyric,a melody,a rhythm, inspiration or hard work etc. Be well. RyanL.
Christy's reply
there is no approach as such…my songs tend to come on the air..the secret is to be always ready and available when the first thought flows in… I play every day, I always have pen and paper at hand, never too far5 from a guitar…if I go into town or if I am travelling always have pen and paper in the póca..if I hear a phrase or a tune or a song I take note…I end up with a lot of bits of paper but every now and then a gem emerges from the copious notes…I try and remember that everything is given, every word and every note is out there on the air…the writer of any song is merely a conduit…if I fail to write anything I am always comforted by the great songs already written and waiting to be sung….
Christy, arrived back safely with Ryanair yesterday evening after spending the week with a friend in Limavady. Had to take the ferry to Donegal on Sunday to get away from all them union flags. Still the high point of the week was your gig at the forum on Friday evening. Fair play to Declan and yourself, you were both in fine form. See you along the way.
Christy's reply
morra Paddy, tis a grand soft morning here in Bognia..the frogs are enjoying the Summer we’re getting…Im going to hear Declan O’Rourke tonight in the NCH with The Orchestra..glad you had a good trip across the water…there was a grand vibe in the Forum last Friday..thanks to all who came and made the night special
Christy I hope you are well this summer’s day! I have not seen any mention of Mountmellick in July since it was mentioned here a couple of months ago. Is it still on?
Christy's reply
far as I know it will be on Sept 29 th…we’ll put it up when the tickets are printed..the back room are hard at it…I’m in charge of the ballads and I’ll be ready when they are..greetings to all our Spinksters
I think it’s kinda funny, the poem. His poems usually contain a lot of humor. Thank you for tolerating these poetic posts. By the way, your rant on the queen in response to Anuk’s post was brilliant….a song or poem right there!
A little poetic wink: Litany by Billy Collins
You are the bread and the knife,
The crystal goblet and the wine…
-Jacques Crickillon
You are the bread and the knife,
the crystal goblet and the wine.
You are the dew on the morning grass
and the burning wheel of the sun.
You are the white apron of the baker,
and the marsh birds suddenly in flight.
However, you are not the wind in the orchard,
the plums on the counter,
or the house of cards.
And you are certainly not the pine-scented air.
There is just no way that you are the pine-scented air.
It is possible that you are the fish under the bridge,
maybe even the pigeon on the general’s head,
but you are not even close
to being the field of cornflowers at dusk.
And a quick look in the mirror will show
that you are neither the boots in the corner
nor the boat asleep in its boathouse.
It might interest you to know,
speaking of the plentiful imagery of the world,
that I am the sound of rain on the roof.
I also happen to be the shooting star,
the evening paper blowing down an alley
and the basket of chestnuts on the kitchen table.
I am also the moon in the trees
and the blind woman’s tea cup.
But don’t worry, I’m not the bread and the knife.
You are still the bread and the knife.
You will always be the bread and the knife,
not to mention the crystal goblet and–somehow–the wine.
Hello Christy, I just wanted to say thanks for a great night in the millenium forum on sat 2nd June, It was a long time coming for us, the only woman I love and adore (or ever will) and myself have been going through very turbulent times to say the least of late,and derry man phil stewart’s song ‘away ye broken heart’ brought stunned silence over the crowd and brought us both to tears, ..and me most of all!! the tune will stay honestly with me to my grave, I only hope my darlin Jayne will too.. thanks again. John
Christy's reply
it is one of those very special songs, not always possible to sing for it needs the special air around it
Home from an Ireland trip on canals, scheduled around your concert in Tullamore. Having been distant fans for years, this was the thrill of the trip. We had seen Jim Page in concert only weeks before our departure and mentioned that we would be at your concert. Thrilled, of course, to hear you mention Page and sing “Hiroshima….”. Thanks for the years of great music from afar and for the joy of May 18th.
Christy's reply
successive posts from America and both concerning the same gig in Tullamore…did you meet the South Carolinians?…..Jim Page’s song is still great to sing 30 years on…good to hear from you nd that you had a good trip
Just discovered the guest page. We were in Tullamore for the 18 May gig. Still in awe of you and Declan and the great Irish people – met a fine Irish lad (Jack) celebrating his 18th with his lovely Mom and sister – he knew all lyrics, a huge fan – would like to correspond if he sees our user address. We will be back for another, hopefully at Tullamore Court again and songs to include “So Do I”. Your man Paddy is a class act too. Also thanks to Donald of Offaly for great hiking recommendations in the Slieve Bloom Mtns. My late Irish grandmom would be very approving of the whole scene. You’re the best! Jerry, of South Carolina, USA
Christy's reply
sound Jerry, glad you had a good sojourn in the Slieve Blooms…if Jack communicates here I will hook ye up….
I take 3 days. I stop 2 nights. 3rd day is a short day – whippee!
In the process of reinventing myself I think. Getting rid of “stuff”, and ways that no longer work….”you gotta leave your home, rattle all your bones, and shake off your chains…” There’s a song for everything! http://mog.com/funoka/blog/2700854
Christy's reply
still a mighty long haul, I reckon the longest journey possible here to be under 400 miles….getting rid of stuff is an emtional task…it is good to have a second opinion, someone who spots rubbish for what it is and calls it thus
Hello Christy,
We are going to Ireland in July visiting family (Kehoes) around Carrick. Staying in Dublin the 16th of July. We were thrilled to see that you are giving a concert that evening. Unfortunately the admission is just for over 18’s. We have two that is 16 1/2 and 17 1/2. Will they be very strict at the entrance or will they let us in, coming the long way from Norway 🙂 Regards Stig and Anna
Just gave the ‚Unfinished Revolution‘ album a re-listen after learning that you sang beautiful renditions of ‘Suffocate’ and ‘Metropolitan Avenue’ on your recent gigs … Realized again that the entire album is a beauty and even full of surprises – Decky’s mini solo, Richie Buckley’s great sax, family choir and all .. What a beautiful studio sound – knowing the album celebrates its 25th anniversary this year. And the brother’s new album is well worth a listen too … Keep well, Christy
Christy's reply
Thanks Petra…have not heard that album for a long time but I have many good memories..particularily of our Mother being in the studio for some of the sessions…must have a listen again
Dia dhuit, we were in Dunlewey last Jan, to see Tim O`Brien and Arty McGlynn this was a great night, in a marvellous place.You will need to brush up on your ” teanga”(the brothers didnt do a great job there).You can take a stroll up Errigal next day and a swim in the lake.Went to see Cill Dara v Cill Chainnigh in St,Conleths last Wed night,the big ball as they say here, Leinster Junior Football 0-18 1-2, Dermot Earley played and looked really fit and strong,roll on the Summer.
Christy's reply
it may be a bit late for me to brush the teanga…I suppose you are getting ready for “The Willie”….all good here…Tullamore next sunday ?
Hey Christy, Hope your well. How was your Declan O’rourke gig? : ) xox
Declan was magnificent…we had to lash over to The Goilin where last nights guest was Barry Gleeson….just back home now after 2 gigs….one with symphony orchestra, the other entirely accapella….my head is reverberating with beautiful sounds…so beautiful that God herself would want to know how they were made
Hello Christy getting ready for the rugby in the morning,Watched the life of Ray gravell the other night,Met him only once and I could feel his passion and kindness,How is the snooker these days I have not played in a while,Bright blue Rose Geraint.
the couch will get an awful scrummaging in the morning
Hiya Christy. Was paddling peacefully in my kayak in Teelin late last Saturday evening. While softly playing your wonderful ‘Allende’ on d’iPod about ten dolphins appeared, swished around and did a few graceful flips and turns. I reckon they tuned in for the music …… They left once the song ended. Your music continues to inspire. Mind yourself now!
as a boy I could sing a pinkeen into a jam jar..later we tickled trout and fished for salmon with hurling sticks on the Liffey weir… The best of all was frolicking with Fungi in Dingle Dangle…the fecker asked me to sing Good Vibrations
I was forcibly introduced to you during a skiing trip in January…my friend sang Casey so much that I found myself singing it while attempting to avoid falling off a mountain in France. The upshot of this was coming to see you in Derry last week….and I loved it! I have come to the realisation that folk music is what I love…songs that tell a story. Thank you – and my friend – for the reintroduction to the genre 🙂
I would have hoped that you were tempted or even seduced rather then forced…whatever the reason for your listening you are welcome to the fold…all singers need good listeners. Many of us really appreciate the part you listeners play in our singing lives..
Good to hear the insight into your songwriting ideas. Reminded me of the story Arlo Guthrie tells as to how songs are already there and fully formed and you just gotta catch them – but that its better to not fish downstream from Bob Dylan !!
Really enjoyed the Derry gigs – great to hear you and Declan in such good form. Especially loved Metropolitan Avenue.
Keep well.
I loved when Arlo told that story some years back…he described fishing for songs downstream from Dylan, he shouted ” Hey Bob, try throwing a few of the small ones back in”
Hi Christy, do you have any plans for a gig here in Kildare over the summer? Still in love with your music and always will………..
nothing firmed up for Newbridge yet Katie…I was on The Hill of Allen on Wednesday…lingered for a while in Milltown Churchyard…rambled around Blacktrench and Clongorey….onover to The Pollardstown Fen and ended up on the Liffey bank towards Athgarvan…keep an eye on the gig page…I am determined to sing in The Shortgrass before the year is out
Hello Christy, Not sure if you want to talk about this here (no answer,no problem), but I would love to know a little bit about your approach to the wonderful art of songwriting. What I am interested in is where does it all start for you. Do you begin with a lyric,a melody,a rhythm, inspiration or hard work etc. Be well. RyanL.
there is no approach as such…my songs tend to come on the air..the secret is to be always ready and available when the first thought flows in… I play every day, I always have pen and paper at hand, never too far5 from a guitar…if I go into town or if I am travelling always have pen and paper in the póca..if I hear a phrase or a tune or a song I take note…I end up with a lot of bits of paper but every now and then a gem emerges from the copious notes…I try and remember that everything is given, every word and every note is out there on the air…the writer of any song is merely a conduit…if I fail to write anything I am always comforted by the great songs already written and waiting to be sung….
Christy, arrived back safely with Ryanair yesterday evening after spending the week with a friend in Limavady. Had to take the ferry to Donegal on Sunday to get away from all them union flags. Still the high point of the week was your gig at the forum on Friday evening. Fair play to Declan and yourself, you were both in fine form. See you along the way.
morra Paddy, tis a grand soft morning here in Bognia..the frogs are enjoying the Summer we’re getting…Im going to hear Declan O’Rourke tonight in the NCH with The Orchestra..glad you had a good trip across the water…there was a grand vibe in the Forum last Friday..thanks to all who came and made the night special
Christy I hope you are well this summer’s day! I have not seen any mention of Mountmellick in July since it was mentioned here a couple of months ago. Is it still on?
far as I know it will be on Sept 29 th…we’ll put it up when the tickets are printed..the back room are hard at it…I’m in charge of the ballads and I’ll be ready when they are..greetings to all our Spinksters
Thanks Christy will keep you posted and if i’m still sober @barras hope i merit a mention
One day at a time Mick…we just gotta stay sober for one day at a time
I think it’s kinda funny, the poem. His poems usually contain a lot of humor. Thank you for tolerating these poetic posts. By the way, your rant on the queen in response to Anuk’s post was brilliant….a song or poem right there!
they are a quare set and no doubt about it
Hiya Christy been put of the drink by doctor so will be sober for barras gig 1st time seeing you without a drink hope you still as good
good luck Mick….I have not looked back since I put the drink down…I love being sober and I wish you well
A little poetic wink: Litany by Billy Collins
You are the bread and the knife,
The crystal goblet and the wine…
-Jacques Crickillon
You are the bread and the knife,
the crystal goblet and the wine.
You are the dew on the morning grass
and the burning wheel of the sun.
You are the white apron of the baker,
and the marsh birds suddenly in flight.
However, you are not the wind in the orchard,
the plums on the counter,
or the house of cards.
And you are certainly not the pine-scented air.
There is just no way that you are the pine-scented air.
It is possible that you are the fish under the bridge,
maybe even the pigeon on the general’s head,
but you are not even close
to being the field of cornflowers at dusk.
And a quick look in the mirror will show
that you are neither the boots in the corner
nor the boat asleep in its boathouse.
It might interest you to know,
speaking of the plentiful imagery of the world,
that I am the sound of rain on the roof.
I also happen to be the shooting star,
the evening paper blowing down an alley
and the basket of chestnuts on the kitchen table.
I am also the moon in the trees
and the blind woman’s tea cup.
But don’t worry, I’m not the bread and the knife.
You are still the bread and the knife.
You will always be the bread and the knife,
not to mention the crystal goblet and–somehow–the wine.
dont know why yet but I like this…thank you
Hello Christy, I just wanted to say thanks for a great night in the millenium forum on sat 2nd June, It was a long time coming for us, the only woman I love and adore (or ever will) and myself have been going through very turbulent times to say the least of late,and derry man phil stewart’s song ‘away ye broken heart’ brought stunned silence over the crowd and brought us both to tears, ..and me most of all!! the tune will stay honestly with me to my grave, I only hope my darlin Jayne will too.. thanks again. John
it is one of those very special songs, not always possible to sing for it needs the special air around it
Home from an Ireland trip on canals, scheduled around your concert in Tullamore. Having been distant fans for years, this was the thrill of the trip. We had seen Jim Page in concert only weeks before our departure and mentioned that we would be at your concert. Thrilled, of course, to hear you mention Page and sing “Hiroshima….”. Thanks for the years of great music from afar and for the joy of May 18th.
successive posts from America and both concerning the same gig in Tullamore…did you meet the South Carolinians?…..Jim Page’s song is still great to sing 30 years on…good to hear from you nd that you had a good trip
Just discovered the guest page. We were in Tullamore for the 18 May gig. Still in awe of you and Declan and the great Irish people – met a fine Irish lad (Jack) celebrating his 18th with his lovely Mom and sister – he knew all lyrics, a huge fan – would like to correspond if he sees our user address. We will be back for another, hopefully at Tullamore Court again and songs to include “So Do I”. Your man Paddy is a class act too. Also thanks to Donald of Offaly for great hiking recommendations in the Slieve Bloom Mtns. My late Irish grandmom would be very approving of the whole scene. You’re the best! Jerry, of South Carolina, USA
sound Jerry, glad you had a good sojourn in the Slieve Blooms…if Jack communicates here I will hook ye up….
I take 3 days. I stop 2 nights. 3rd day is a short day – whippee!
In the process of reinventing myself I think. Getting rid of “stuff”, and ways that no longer work….”you gotta leave your home, rattle all your bones, and shake off your chains…” There’s a song for everything! http://mog.com/funoka/blog/2700854
still a mighty long haul, I reckon the longest journey possible here to be under 400 miles….getting rid of stuff is an emtional task…it is good to have a second opinion, someone who spots rubbish for what it is and calls it thus
Hello Christy,
We are going to Ireland in July visiting family (Kehoes) around Carrick. Staying in Dublin the 16th of July. We were thrilled to see that you are giving a concert that evening. Unfortunately the admission is just for over 18’s. We have two that is 16 1/2 and 17 1/2. Will they be very strict at the entrance or will they let us in, coming the long way from Norway 🙂 Regards Stig and Anna
Let me check this out
Just gave the ‚Unfinished Revolution‘ album a re-listen after learning that you sang beautiful renditions of ‘Suffocate’ and ‘Metropolitan Avenue’ on your recent gigs … Realized again that the entire album is a beauty and even full of surprises – Decky’s mini solo, Richie Buckley’s great sax, family choir and all .. What a beautiful studio sound – knowing the album celebrates its 25th anniversary this year. And the brother’s new album is well worth a listen too … Keep well, Christy
Thanks Petra…have not heard that album for a long time but I have many good memories..particularily of our Mother being in the studio for some of the sessions…must have a listen again
Dia dhuit, we were in Dunlewey last Jan, to see Tim O`Brien and Arty McGlynn this was a great night, in a marvellous place.You will need to brush up on your ” teanga”(the brothers didnt do a great job there).You can take a stroll up Errigal next day and a swim in the lake.Went to see Cill Dara v Cill Chainnigh in St,Conleths last Wed night,the big ball as they say here, Leinster Junior Football 0-18 1-2, Dermot Earley played and looked really fit and strong,roll on the Summer.
it may be a bit late for me to brush the teanga…I suppose you are getting ready for “The Willie”….all good here…Tullamore next sunday ?