Canadian folk singer and songwriter James Keelaghan made his first appearance at Irvine Folk Club three years ago and he tore the place apart. He is a terrific artist and it’s great news that he is back in Irvine on Wednesday 25th October.
Calgary born but now based in Perth in Eastern Ontario, James has been in the music business for over 25 years and has eleven albums to his name. It’s said that he has one of the most distinctive and easily identifiable voices in Canada. James is an acclaimed member of the international singer and songwriter community – his albums have brought him an impressive share of nominations and awards from Australia to Sweden.
James’ Dad was an Irish man and it is to him that James owes much of his early musical inspiration. His Dad was also a great storyteller and James says he is still trying to be as good as his Dad. The love of storytelling gave James a passion for language and history and both aspects are evident in his songwriting. As well as his own material, James also does some covers, Gordon Lightfoot being a favourite.
As well as touring extensively, James has been Artistic Director of the Summerfolk Music & Crafts in Owen Sound in Ontario since 2011. He also leads tours in Ireland for about 22 people which are a mix of visits to places off the beaten track and music. The next one is in May 2018.
Expect to hear a mix of roots, rock, Americana and contemporary folk when James Keelaghan plays at Irvine Folk Club on Wednesday 25th October in Vineburgh Community Centre in Quarry Road. The Club starts at 8pm.
The 2018 Celtic Connections programme is out. And who would have believed this will be the 25th Connections already! From 18th January – 4th February, 2,100 artists over 300 events across 20 Glasgow venues. You get the drift. A range of styles and traditions all celebrating live music. Visit www.celticconnections.com or follow the conversation @ccfest
And finally, The Johnny Silvo Story at The Townhouse Irvine is coming up fast. The date is Friday 27th October and tickets are £8. It will be different and it will be good. And looking slightly ahead, on Saturday 11th November in The Volunteer Rooms, Ian McCalman’s Far, Far From Ypres takes place. Narrated by Iain Anderson with 26 musicians on stage throughout, it’s a terrific production. Both events are part of the programme to mark the 50th anniversaries of Marymass Folk Festival and Irvine Folk Club. Tickets for both events are available from Joyce on 01294 551047 or email JoyceIFC@aol.com Don’t leave it too late to get tickets.
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presenting folk music in Ayrshire for over 50 years