Explore every episode of the podcast The Ballad Lounge Podcast

Welcome to "The Ballad Lounge" with your hosts, Máirtín de Cógáin and Rory Makem. Pull up a cozy chair, pour yourself a warm cup of cheer, and join us as we dive into the heart of the holiday season. Today, we're sharing our cherished Christmas traditions- stories wrapped in the warmth of family, festivity, and folklore. Plus, we'll be exploring the timeless charm of the song 'The Holly Bears a Berry," uncovering its rich history and melodic beauty. So, settle in and let the spirit of the season carry you through this special episode.

Welcome to The Ballad Lounge

Join your hosts, Máirtín de Cógáin and Rory Makem, as they take you on a melodic journey through the heart and soul of Irish music. Each week, we dive deep into the stories, traditions, and voices that have shaped the vibrant tapestry of Irish culture.

In this episode, we're honored to sit down with none other than Irish music legend Séamus Kennedy. With his rich vocals, masterful guitar work, and signature wit, Séamus shares tales from his musical journey, the inspiration behind his timeless ballads, and some unforgettable moments from the road. So, grab a seat and relax in The Ballad Lounge where every song tells a story and every guest has a tale worth hearing.

Welcome to The Ballad Lounge, where stories meet song and voices carry tales from near and far. Rory and Máirtín are your hosts as they dive deep into the heart and soul of the song tradition.

In today's episode, they're thrilled to sit down with the legendary Donie Carroll- a singer whose voice is as rich in history as it is in heart. Join us as we explore Donie's musical journey, his inspirations, and the events that have shaped his life.

So, settle in, tune your ears, and let the melodies guide you. This is The Ballad Lounge.

Check out www.MercyCentre.org for the charity that Donie speaks about.

Come to Máirtín's home town of Carrigaline, Co. Cork as we interrogate Carrigdhoun by Denny Lane. A song from 1845, part of the Young Islanders' collection. Rory gives us a good run down of the uprisings from 1803 to 1848.

Today we're exploring "The Rising of the Moon," a stirring Irish ballad

that echoes the spirit of rebellion, resilience, and hope. In this episode, we'll unravel the historical backdrop of the song, born from Ireland's fight for freedom, and dissect its evocative lyrics that have inspired generations. We'll also discuss the

powerful role this ballad has played in folk traditions and how its message still resonates today. So, grab a cozy seat, let the music guide you, and join us in "The Ballad Lounge" as we delve

into "The Rising of the Moon."

We are moving away from the Pot Boilers and roaming o'er the roads of Rebellion. Starting with a song made famous from the singing of Sarah Makem, Rory's Granny. The Wind that Shakes the Barley brings us back to 1798 and the Pikemen of Wexford. Máirtín takes a quick dip into the well of Irish History, while Rory brings us back to the kitchen where it rejoined the Irish Vernacular and sings us out to send us home again.

Join us for another great episode of The Ballad Lounge.

The Rattlin’ Bog

Welcome to The Ballad Lounge, where we uncover the rich tapestry of history, culture, and stories woven into the world’s most iconic ballads. In this episode, we delve into one of the most well known cumulative songs in the Irish songbook, “The “Rattlin’ Bog.

Join us as we dissect a song that brings out the child in all of us. A brilliant number for the classroom or indeed the pub. What makes it engaging? Why do we still sing it? Why does everyone wait with bated breath hoping for the singer to mess up?
Rory & Máirtín talk about the origins and build from there. Forgive us for the sound issues in this episode. Hope you enjoy it!

Welcome to The Ballad Lounge, where we uncover the rich tapestry of history, culture, and stories woven into the world’s most iconic ballads. In this episode, we delve into the timeless song, "Whiskey in the Jar".

Join us as we trace its journey from traditional Irish folk roots to its electrifying rock renditions. We'll explore the song’s gripping tale of betrayal and outlaw spirit, dissect its lyrical evolution.

Pour one for yourself, settle in, and let The Ballad Lounge serenade you with the fascinating saga of "Whiskey in the Jar."

Welcome to the latest episode from The Ballad Lounge, where we dive into the rich history and cultural significance of the beloved folk song, "I'll Tell My Ma." This timeless tune, also known as "The Belle of Belfast City," has been passed down through generations, cherished for its catchy melody and charming lyrics. Whether you're a folk music enthusiast or new to the world of traditional tunes, this episode offers an insightful and entertaining look into the story behind "I'll Tell My Ma."

This week we look at the ballad The Moonshiner. Is it Irish? Which side of the Atlantic does it come from? Or indeed the word Moonshiner, is it uniquely American?

Come sit with Rory & Máirtín as they dive into it only to break out into distant memories of family singsongs.

Is the Black Velvet Band an Irish song? Was it based in Belfast or Tralee? Does it matter? Where is Van Diemen's Land? Should we still be singing it today? Join us as we explore the origins of one of Ireland's most recorded and beloved ballads for the past 80 years!