Fans of the Late Late Show were treated to a captivating evening on March 15, 2024, as the program featured its inaugural special dedicated entirely to traditional Irish music. Host Patrick Kielty welcomed an array of distinguished musicians, many of whom participated in this year’s TradFest, to deliver memorable performances and engaging conversations.
The show showcased a rich tapestry of trad music, presenting unexpected collaborations and heartfelt interviews. Among the notable guests was actor and comedian Ricky Tomlinson, widely recognized for his role in The Royle Family. Tomlinson shared his deep passion for music, particularly his love for singing and playing the banjo. He spoke fondly of his Irish heritage and expressed his unwavering commitment to performing. In a vibrant display of the evening’s celebratory atmosphere, Tomlinson brought the crowd to their feet with a stirring rendition of “The Leaving of Liverpool,” backed by the TradFest ensemble.
Another highlight was the appearance of American folk legend Peggy Seeger, who at the age of 90 continues to inspire audiences with her music. Seeger reflected on her remarkable career spanning over seven decades, discussing her ongoing creative endeavors. She paid tribute to her late husband, Ewan MacColl, with a poignant performance of “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face,” a song he famously wrote for her.
The evening also featured Lisa Canny, a founding member of the all-female trad supergroup Biird. Canny shared insights into her band’s incredible year, which included their first Irish tour and performances at major events like All Together Now and the Fleadh. She also recounted the excitement of fitting in shows alongside Ed Sheeran and making waves in Vogue after performing at the wedding of Saoirse-Monica Jackson, a star of the hit series Derry Girls.
Kielty engaged with a host of other esteemed musicians throughout the broadcast. Artists such as Kevin Conneff of The Chieftains, Dónal Lunny, Fiachna Ó Braonáin, and Zoë Conway shared their experiences and fervent desire to preserve the rich traditions of Irish music. The evening was infused with personal stories and lively performances, creating a warm sense of community and celebration.
The Late Late Show’s dedication to traditional Irish music not only entertained but also highlighted the deep cultural roots and ongoing evolution of the genre. As fans continue to engage with the show’s content, platforms like Belfast Live Social on TikTok will provide updates, including food reviews and concert announcements, ensuring audiences stay connected with the vibrant cultural scene in Northern Ireland.
For more updates and in-depth coverage of the latest happenings, viewers can visit the Belfast Live homepage and subscribe to their What’s On newsletter. The positive reception of this special suggests a promising future for similar programming, enriching the cultural landscape of traditional music.
