Amazing Grace

This episode is about one of the most well know songs in the english languge. A hymn by John Newton called Amazing Grace. Rory has done a deep dive finding an amazing connection to Ireland in this ballad. Listen in as they explore the life and times of a decrepid man who had a big hand in bringing about the end to the slave trade in the nineteenth century.

Note: this talk about slavery could be triggery to some, please be advise that Rory & Máirtín are not historians and do their best to get it right.

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Welcome back to The Ballad Lounge! This week, we are diving deep into the spirited and legendary tale of "An Poc ar Buile" (The Mad Puck Goat). Join us as we explore the rich history of this beloved song—from its poetic origins in West Cork to the iconic voices that brought it to the global stage—and recap some incredible recent moments in traditional Irish music.

In This Episode, We Cover:

• The Pen of Dónal Ó Mulláin: A look at the brilliant mind who penned the original words to "An Poc ar Buile." We discuss Ó Mulláin’s roots in Cúil Aodha, his place among the great local poets, and the vital role of the Oireachtas na Gaeilge festival and competitions in championing and preserving such crucial Irish language compositions.

• The Legacy of Seán Ó Sé: A heartfelt tribute to his unmistakable voice, his groundbreaking work with Seán Ó Riada, and how his definitive rendition of "An Poc ar Buile" cemented the tune into the bedrock of the traditional Irish canon.

• High Seas Trad on Geantraí: Swapping stories and highlights from the phenomenal Geantraí special, filmed right aboard the unforgettable Joanie Madden Folk 'n' Irish cruise. https://joaniemaddencruise.com

• St. Patrick's Day on TG4: Looking back at the magic of the March 17th broadcast on TG4 and celebrating the thriving community of musicians and listeners who tuned in.

Show Links & Resources:

• Watch the Geantraí Special: Catch the Joanie Madden cruise special that aired on March 17th over at TG4:

  https://www.tg4.ie/en/player/categories/irish-music-series/play/?pid=6390422923112&title=Lá%20Fhéile%20Pádraig%202026&series=Geantraí&genre=Ceol&pcode=754570

  
  

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While we were sail on the Joanie Madden Folk 'n' Irish Cruise we had the wonderful opportunity to chat with the dashing Kerryman Bryan Murphy of the Gallivanters. He even kept his shirt on for the whole interview. Grab a cup o'tay and sit back, or get the dog ready for a walk and join us for another episode of the Ballad Lounge Podcast.

https://www.bryanmurphymusic.com/the-gallivanters-band

https://www.instagram.com/bryanmurphy_music/

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