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Irish Examiner
16-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Examiner
Culture That Made Me: Paula MacSweeney of Today FM picks her touchstones
Born in 1985, Paula MacSweeney grew up in Piltown, Co Kilkenny. In 2012, she started on air with Today FM, initially doing daily showbiz reports on the Ian Dempsey Breakfast Show and later presenting her own programmes, including the early breakfast show. In 2022, she began hosting the radio station's evening show, 7pm-10pm, Monday to Thursday. She also presents a Sunday night rock music show on Today FM. See: A Woman's Heart I remember my mam bought A Woman's Heart. Every household had a copy of it in 1992. As a family, we used to hop in the car – eight of us going on holiday with my granddad, so nine of us in a car; you wouldn't be allowed to do it now – and we used to drive to France, children literally hanging out the windows. We had that album on tape. I remember listening to it constantly. I knew every word from those holidays. Even though it wasn't meant for a six-year-old girl, it had a real impact on me. I loved it. I rediscovered it on Spotify a couple of years ago, and it's just beautiful. Take That I was a huge Take That fan. My first ever album was Take That & Party. Santy brought it for me – that's how young I was. I was about seven. I absolutely loved it, and I loved Take That throughout the Nineties. There was a Take That vs. Boyzone rivalry; I was always Take That. I loved the five-piece. Now that Robbie has left, and I think they're down to about three, I've kinda lost interest a little bit! Ricky Gervais Ricky Gervais. I'm a huge Ricky Gervais fan. I know he's not for everyone. Some people find him too much. People love to give out about him online. With his observations, sometimes I even find myself going, 'He's gone too far, he's gone too far,' but I still love it because dark humour is something I find very funny. Comedy's gone a bit dull, so I love when Ricky Gervais goes for it. I love the way he uses satire to critique societal norms, politics, celebrity culture. Nobody is safe. He's witty. He's clever. I love him. Britney Spears As I grew a bit older, into my teenage years, I loved Britney Spears. She came out when I was about 13 so throughout my whole teenage years – like a lot of girls who were into pop at that age – I was obsessed with Britney. Because we didn't have social media at the time – and she was being absolutely harassed by paparazzi – I was one of those buying the magazines to see what she was up to. I owned every album. I knew every word. I love her. Lily Allen I'm an enormous Lily Allen fan. I've loved her since 2004-2005 – when she was young and very new. She hasn't released music since 2018. It's been quite a while, and she only has four albums. I went to see her when she was on at Electric Picnic in 2014. I'll never forget it. She was on early in the day. It was Sunday, maybe about 6pm, so it was bright. I was waiting for her set all year. I was so excited to go and see her. She was promoting her album, Sheezus, which probably is her worst album. I'll never forget standing there with a cup of warm beer, in a field, it had been raining, and I felt the happiest I'd ever been. I'd finally got to see her live on stage, and it was magnificent. Gavin & Stacey Gavin & Stacey. I'm very passionate about Gavin & Stacey. The word play in it is clever. James Corden and Ruth Jones are phenomenal writers. The characters are so clever, so well-developed. I love the character arc as well from when they started 20 years ago to that amazing Christmas special finish. Their finale made my Christmas. Every line was perfect. It's like a warm hug on the TV. It's my go-to whenever I need a little pick-me-up. It's gorgeous TV. The Sopranos My favourite TV box set of all time is The Sopranos. It's perfect – the characters, the storylines are amazing. There are unexpected twists. Nobody was safe in that show. It explores the American dream, and what it takes to obtain that. There's nuanced exploration of stuff like identity, loyalty, the human condition. Tony Soprano is so multidimensional. He's flawed. He's brilliant. He's funny. I've probably watched it from start to finish at least 10 times in my life. Every time I watch it, I find something new that I hadn't seen or heard before. It's so entertaining. The Pillars of the Earth The best book I've read is Ken Follett's The Pillars of the Earth. He's an extraordinary writer. It's set in the twelfth century, in England during a time of political turmoil, religious strife, and the construction of a magnificent cathedral. He travelled around Europe years before writing his book to understand architecture and how these cathedrals were built. That side of the book is very detailed. Even though I didn't find that bit particularly interesting, it's so powerful. The drama is gripping. It has complex characters. It's a rich tapestry of human experience, with insight into human ambition, and the power of the church. It's brilliant historical fiction. The book had a profound effect on me. I remember finishing it thinking I want to restart it. Ian Dempsey Ian Dempsey. I loved Ian Dempsey on RTÉ 2fm. I remember, in my teens, the moment when Today FM announced, 'Look who we've poached for breakfast' and he moved to Today FM. It was such a big deal. It was huge news. Everybody was talking about it. I was a huge fan. All I ever wanted to do was work with Ian Dempsey. It was a life goal. It's funny because we've worked together now for, like, 13-14 years. He's the greatest of the greatest, and he's only getting better. There's no slowing down. Then She Was Gone I read seven Lisa Jewell books in a month about six months ago because of this book of hers, Then She Was Gone. Some of her books are better than others. Then She Was Gone is full of suspense and mystery. I couldn't put it down. It is sad, I have to say. It's a hard read at some points – because some of the best things are – but it's brilliant. The book has it all. It has amazing twists, a real page turner. The Baby Tribe I have three children aged six, four, and two. I've come out of my era of listening constantly to parenting podcasts, but The Baby Tribe is a podcast I listened to religiously for about two years. It's hosted by Professor Afif El-Khuffash, a neonatologist in the Rotunda Hospital in Dublin, and his wife, Dr Anne Doherty, who is an anaesthesiologist. It's evidence-based fun, and ways to learn about stuff. There's no opinion. It's all 'according to research', which is so reassuring. They have some good guests on it as well. It's very good.
Irish Post
25-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Post
Ten Minutes with Frances Black
A NEW anthology celebrating the music of Irish singer Frances features a three-CD collection. Entitled Frances Black Anthology, the project traces her career from her early days performing with her siblings as part of The Black Family, through her time with Arcady, and into her long-running solo career FRANCES BLACK, whose 1994 debut album Talk To Me spent ten weeks at number one in Ireland, rose to national prominence after her contributions to the landmark A Woman's Heart compilation in 1992. That album, which featured other leading Irish artists such as Eleanor McEvoy, Dolores Keane, and Sharon Shannon, remains the best-selling Irish album of all time. The new compilation features tracks from across Black's extensive discography, including hits like All the Lies That You Told Me, Wall of Tears, and After the Ball. It also includes selections from her collaborations with Kieran Goss and her work with the ensemble The Fallen Angels. In addition to her music career, Black has been active in public life. She founded the Rise Foundation to support families affected by addiction and was elected to Seanad Éireann in 2016, where she has been an advocate on issues including mental health, social justice, and Palestine. Frances is among the leading contenders in the betting markets for the upcoming Irish presidential election. Bookmakers are giving odds of between 9/2 and 4/1, positioning her as a strong favourite alongside other prominent figures like Mairead McGuinness and Heather Humphreys. Frances Black in 1998 (picture Leon Farrell/ What are you up to? At the moment, I'm working very hard as a politician, advocating for issues close to my heart. I'm also deeply involved in the charity I set up, the Rise Foundation, which is very fulfilling work. At the weekends, I am on the road performing with my band — that keeps me connected to my music. But I do get tired. Which piece of music always sends a shiver down your spine? Seamus Begley singing Bruach na Carraige Báine. It's simply one of the most beautiful Irish songs ever recorded, and the way he sings it — with pure soul — is just beautiful. Which musician or singer has most influenced you? Probably Sandy Denny. She was an incredible singer whose voice and songwriting have left a lasting impression. I've also been inspired by Tríona Ní Dhomhnaill and Maighread Ní Dhomhnaill — both of whom have contributed immensely to Irish folk music. Their passion for singing, authenticity, and delivery of Irish songs inspires me to this day. Is the world of politics more difficult or far easier than you imagined? Politics is far more demanding than I initially imagined. It's a busy, often intense environment where I work long hours every day. There are many issues I'm passionate about, and I dedicate myself to really trying to make a difference. Mary Coughlan, Sharon Shannon and Frances Black at the Craic in the Páirc in 2024 (image by Chris Egan) What's on your smartphone playlist at the minute? It's quite eclectic. I listen to The Beatles, Sandy Denny, Carole King, James Taylor — and of course, my favourite is traditional Irish music. I love listening to Liz Carroll, Altan, Seamus Begley, Steve Cooney, Lisa Lambe, Brendan Begley, Damien Dempsey, and so many others. Depending on how I'm feeling, I also like Frank Sinatra — especially when I'm driving. I suppose my music choices reflect how I feel on any given day. What are your family roots in Ireland? My father comes from Rathlin Island. My mother is from the Liberties in Dublin. Both of my parents were very musical; my father was a traditional Irish musician, and my mother loved singing all the old music hall songs. We grew up in Dublin, on Charlemont Street — a great working-class community where everyone looked after each other. What is your favourite place in Irelan d? Rathlin Island. I try to visit as often as possible. It's my safe space — a place to relax, go for long walks with my dog, hang out with my family and read. I wish I could go there more often, as it holds a special place in my heart. What has been your favourite venue? It's hard to pick just one, as I love gigging all over Ireland. The audiences are always incredible. I particularly enjoy performing in Belfast, Cork, and Dublin. Each city has its own special energy, and I feel very fortunate to perform across the country. Have you a book that has been a major influence on you? Yes, Stillness Speaks by Eckhart Tolle. It has helped me find a little bit of calm and clarity amidst a very hectic and busy life, reminding me to stay in the moment. Which trait in others do you most admire? I most admire honesty and authenticity. I believe genuine people inspire others and create meaningful connections. What would be your motto? "Stay true to yourself, be authentic, and never give up on fighting injustice.' What's the best advice you've ever been given? Never be afraid to stand up for what you believe in, even if it's difficult. Persistence and integrity are key. What's the best thing about where you live? I've great neighbours and I live very close to the centre of Dublin city — it's really handy for shopping, theatre, restaurants, etc. And the worst? Sometimes the business of living near the city centre can feel hectic at times. What's the greatest lesson life has taught you? That resilience and kindness are the most powerful tools we have. No matter the challenges, staying true to my values will always see me through. What do you believe in? I believe that at the core of a healthy and compassionate society is the principle of mutual care and responsibility. We have a collective duty to look after one another, especially the vulnerable members of our community — whether they are elderly, children, people experiencing hardship, or those with mental health challenges or disabilities. I believe we have to build communities where kindness, empathy, and support are not just ideals but everyday practices. It's about creating an environment where every individual feels valued and protected, and where social justice and equality are prioritised. I also believe that a society's strength is measured by how well it cares for its most vulnerable — and that each of us has a role to play in fostering a more inclusive, caring, and just world. (I bet you're sorry you asked now . . . . ) What do you consider the greatest work of art? That's a tough one. I'd probably say the Irish landscape — because of its breathtaking beauty and history that inspires so many artists, poets, and politicians like me to keep going. Who/what is the greatest love of your life? My husband, my children Eoghan and Aoife and their amazing partners Emma and Andy. And of course, my beautiful granddaughters, whom I cherish every precious moment with. My family are my greatest passion and source of strength.
Irish Post
17-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Post
Sharon Shannon to top the bill at Páirc 2025
INDEPENDENT Birmingham Irish festival Páirc Summers Series will be celebrating Irish music and culture along with Midlands heritage this summer. The event runs from August 23 to 24 at the King's Heath Irish Centre grounds on 205 Wheelers Lane, King's Heath, Birmingham. The two-day outdoor festival will see bands from across Ireland and Britain perform. Headliners include The Sharon Shannon Big Band, The Saw Doctors and Nathan Carter, supported by some of the top names in traditional and Irish folk music. Sharon Shannon will perform at the Páirc Summer Series Sharon Shannon: the accordion virtuoso who took Irish music worldwide SHARON SHANNON, from the village of Ruan, County Clare, is one of Ireland's most innovative musicians. Best known for her dazzling mastery of the button accordion and melodeon, Shannon has carved a singular path through the music world, blending the traditional with unexpected musical byways, and bringing Irish music to global audiences in fresh, dynamic ways. Shannon was steeped in music from a young age. Growing up in a musical family, she took up the accordion at just eight years old. By the age of 14, she was already touring the United States as a member of the group Disirt Tola. She honed her skills with tuition from respected musicians such as Karen Tweed on accordion and Frank Custy on fiddle, and as a teenager she co-founded the band Arcady, marking her first steps into the professional music scene. By the end of the 1980s she was missing with a huge range of musicians including Adam Clayton of U2 and Mike Scott of The Waterboys. That connection led to an 18-month stint with The Waterboys, during which she toured internationally and contributed significantly to their acclaimed Room to Roam album. It was during this period that Shannon's distinctive style began to flourish. Her departure from The Waterboys marked the beginning of her solo career. In 1991, she released her self-titled debut album, Sharon Shannon , which — and it's a well-documented claim —remains the best-selling traditional Irish music album ever in Ireland. Shannon's reputation soared further the following year with her contribution to A Woman's Heart , the landmark 1992 compilation that brought together six of Ireland's leading female artists. Selling over 750,000 copies, it became the best-selling album in Irish chart history at the time and remains a defining moment in the Irish cultural landscape. Sharon's Shannon mastery of the button accordion — not the easiest instrument to play — has made put her among the greats of Irish music. But it is probably her ability to move effortlessly between genres that has set her apart. She has never confined herself to the strict borders of traditional Irish music. Reggae, Cajun, Portuguese, French-Canadian, Americana, and country have all found their way into her work. Her 1994 album Out the Gap , produced by the legendary reggae artist Dennis Bovell, was a bold example of a fusion of styles. Of course, trying to incorporate too many styles of music into one act can sometimes dilute the singularity of a traditional. 'Doing a bit of everything' can sometimes be the death knell for an artist. Not so with Sharon Shannon. Her collaborations read like a who's who of international music. She has worked with Bono, Sinéad O'Connor, Jackson Browne, Steve Earle, Willie Nelson, Shane MacGowan, and many others. A standout moment came in 2000 with the release of The Diamond Mountain Sessions , widely regarded as one of her finest records. It featured the original version of The Galway Girl , co-written and performed with American singer-songwriter Steve Earle. Though already popular, the song exploded onto the charts again in 2008 when a live version recorded with Irish singer Mundy became an instant number one hit and an enduring anthem across Ireland. In recognition of her contribution to Irish music, Shannon received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2009 Meteor Ireland Music Awards. Her performances have reached an audience far beyond the typical folk circles, including playing for President Bill Clinton at the White House and for Irish presidents Mary Robinson and Mary McAleese. Sharon Shannon formed the Big Band to expand her live shows beyond smaller ensembles, blending traditional Irish music with jazz, reggae, blues, country, and classical influences. The flexible lineup typically includes fiddle, guitars, brass, percussion, keyboards, and backing vocals, with frequent guest appearances from Irish stars like Damien Dempsey, Mundy, Mary Coughlan, and Imelda May. The Big Band is known for its high-energy, festival-friendly performances that turn beloved tunes into rich, layered arrangements. Audiences across Ireland and Europe have embraced the project's celebratory spirit and innovative take on Shannon's roots. Saturday acts: The Saw Doctors The Undertones Fin Furey Pogue Traders Father Teds Sunday acts: Sharon Shannon Big Band Nathan Carter The High Kings Tumbling Paddies Young Wolfe Tones Lampa Páirc Summer Series 2025, runs from August 23 to 24, 2025. For tickets click here. See More: Birmingham, Irish, Páirc Summer Series 2025
