Fans of the popular *Late Late Show* were treated to an exceptional evening of traditional Irish music on March 15, 2024, during the program’s inaugural special dedicated entirely to the genre. Host Patrick Kielty welcomed an impressive lineup of musicians, many of whom participated in this year’s TradFest, for a night filled with memorable performances, engaging conversations, and unexpected collaborations.
The audience experienced a vibrant showcase of talent, featuring renowned artists who celebrated the rich tapestry of traditional Irish music. Among the highlights was actor and comedian Ricky Tomlinson, best known for his role in *The Royle Family*, who shared his deep-rooted passion for music. Tomlinson discussed his love for singing and playing the banjo, revealing his strong connections to Ireland and his commitment to keeping his musical journey alive. He captivated viewers with a heartfelt rendition of “The Leaving of Liverpool,” joined by fellow musicians from TradFest.
Another notable guest was American folk icon Peggy Seeger, who reflected on her impressive seven-decade career in the music industry. At 90 years old, Seeger continues to perform and release new music. She paid tribute to her late husband, Ewan MacColl, with a moving performance of “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face,” a song he wrote for her, adding a poignant touch to the evening.
The show also featured Lisa Canny, a founding member of the all-female trad supergroup Biird. Canny engaged with Kielty about her band’s remarkable achievements over the past year, including their first Irish tour and performances at major events such as All Together Now and the Fleadh. She also shared her experiences performing with Ed Sheeran and making a splash in *Vogue* magazine after singing at the wedding of *Derry Girls* star Saoirse-Monica Jackson.
Kielty connected with several other prominent musicians during the episode, including Kevin Conneff of The Chieftains, Dónal Lunny, Fiachna Ó Braonáin, and Zoë Conway. These artists shared their insights and stories, emphasizing their dedication to preserving traditional Irish music and its cultural significance.
In addition to the musical performances, viewers were treated to engaging interviews that highlighted the personal stories behind the artists and their music. The atmosphere was one of camaraderie and celebration, embodying the true spirit of a traditional Irish seisiún.
The success of this special episode illustrates the ongoing popularity and relevance of traditional Irish music in contemporary culture. It brought together a diverse array of talented musicians and provided a platform for sharing their passion with audiences both in Ireland and around the world. As fans continue to seek out authentic musical experiences, events like this one are vital in keeping the art form vibrant and accessible.
For those interested in exploring more of Belfast’s rich cultural scene, the Belfast Live Social on TikTok offers a variety of content, including food reviews, concert announcements, and local insights. Follow them for updates and engage with the community by sharing your content preferences.
As the *Late Late Show* continues to spotlight the vibrant world of traditional Irish music, viewers can look forward to future episodes that celebrate this cherished art form and its talented artists.
