5 of the Best Memoirs by Irish Musicians
Published 13/10/2021Kodaline’s front man Steve Garrigan has just published his first book, High Hopes, a memoir on his life, his passion for music and his journey to fame. In doing so, Steve joins a group of incredible Irish musicians who have turned to books to tell their stories of fame, struggle and their love of music. To celebrate, we’ve compiled a list of 5 of the best memoirs by Irish musicians that we think are worth a read.
- Rememberings by Sinéad O’Connor
Published by Sandycove, this autobiography by one the women who arguably shaped modern Ireland is a truly incredible read. Stark, lyrical, and evocative, this book oscillates between spiritual awakenings, dark humour, and moments of nostalgia.
- One Voice: My Life in Song by Christy Moore
In 2003, Hachette published the autobiography of Irish music legend Christy Moore. The book brings you through Moore’s journey or writing his favourite songs, with the eventual lyrics appearing alongside tales of memories. Reading it is like having a sneak peak inside a spontaneous diary.
- Barefoot Pilgrimage by Andrea Corr
Corr’s Barefoot Pilgrimage is a compelling and honest memoir. Illustrated with personal photographs and with original poems interspersed throughout the text, this is a very personal – at times very funny, at times deeply moving – book from an iconic figure in popular music.
- Bloody Mary: My Story by Mary Coughlan
In this funny, moving and typically outspoken memoir, Ireland’s best-loved jazz singer pulls no punches in getting to the heart of what made Mary so contrary. As she tells her story – with a ribald, running commentary on the highs and lows of celebrity culture – we get to experience an alternative evolution of Ireland in the ’70s and ’80s, populated with hippies, rock stars and movie moguls, and one wild Irish girl determined to live a life less ordinary.
- Syncopated Blue by Ryan Hennessy
Forgive me, for this book is not a memoir or an autobiography, but it is a collection of poetry that speaks to the life and artistry of Irish musician and Picture This singer, Ryan Hennessy. The poetry is a result of a prolonged period of self-reflection after extensive touring. It may not be a memoir, but Hennessy reveals himself in this collection. Syncopated Blue will be published by Gill Books on 24th September 2021
I’m sure that this collection of insights into the life of Irish singers has piqued your interest in Garrigan’s newly released memoir. Join us tomorrow on 14th October for an exclusive interview between the singer and RTÉ broadcaster Fergal D’Arcy. We have event only and book combo tickets available (that include a SIGNED copy of the book). Book now to have your signed copy sent to you. See you there!