Irish Pub Music For The Win

Working with a friend today we were talking music and my mind turned to my Irish Jig playlist. I go through musical phases, but there are certain songs I ALWAYS enjoy. This playlist is full of some of those songs. Almost 20 years ago I walked into my first “Irish Pub” (location in US). They had a rotation of live performers that repeated about every 5 weeks. I always tried to go out when they had a guy who was actually born in Ireland. Hands down my favorite. His dry humor and vocal talents started my life long love affair of all things Irish. I’ve since been fortunate enough to visit Ireland twice; I’m itching to take my new husband to share the magic with him. These trips just deepen my admiration for the country and culture. So while I’m by no means a celtologist (studier of Celtic culture?) I want to share some of the love. I hope it sparks a little cultural passion in you.

Maybe it’s not Celtic. Maybe it’s zydeco, reggae, blue grass, or even son cubano. There’s so many to pick from. Modern music is good too. But kicking it old school occasionally has its benefits. Finding a new to you artist is like a new show on Netflix. You’ve usually got multiple albums to discover and binge at your leisure. Let music be your gateway drug to a whole new world. Get on the magic carpet. Expand your horizons. Hear a different perspective. Let it wash over you like a fresh breeze, making your fingertips tingle and your lungs sigh at your new discovery. My Spotify account has been worth its weight in gold (it weighs nothing but you get it). Having access to such a massive library of songs is incredible. Anyone creeping toward forty like I am or order understands my amazement. I remember sitting by the radio with a tape recorder waiting to smash the record button any time a “good” song came on to make a mix tape. The amount of information at our fingertips 24/7 is astounding. Take advantage. Like the sound of a genre? Google its history, where it originated, what musical influences came together to create your new art discovery? Or simply sit back and enjoy. The choice is obviously yours.

Music in general isn’t for everyone. I have a nephew that just doesn’t seem to be a fan. But for some of us it can be transcendent. It’s been proven to be able to alter moods and more. Life can be tough, why not give your ears and brain a little musical tickle when you can? Happy listening friends!