Limerick-born, New-Jersey-based roots artist and former doctor Helen O'Shea has released her new album, Songs in the Key of O. We asked her the BIG questions . . .
The album features collaborations with Liam Ó Maonlaí of Hothouse Flowers, James Maddock, Barry Murphy of Hermitage Green, and Rob Clores of the Black Crows, and is a tribute to late Irish singers Dolores O’Riordan and Sinéad O’Connor.
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Songs in the Key of O also features Michelle Moore (Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band, E Street Choir), Jack Daley (Spin Doctors), Caroline Carlile and The Carlile Family Band, Seth Von Paulus (Linda Perry), Leon Zervos, Nicole Scorsone, Nathan Bishop, Brielle Brown, Fiona Tyndall, Sharon Lasher, Jo Wymer, and Brad Butcher.
"Sinéad O'Connor is an Irish music icon, and an even bigger inspiration to thousands of Irish women," says Helen. "I will never forget the night she walked onto the stage of the Late Late Show and made her debut, with her signature buzzcut and a plain white t-shirt.
"Sinéad helped to redefine what it meant to be a woman in Ireland. Strong, bold, fearless and passionate - she was a true inspiration, pushing the boundaries of Irish womanhood and Irish music."
Helen adds, "Dolores O'Riordan was a star who burned brightly for a tragically short time. She brought so much beauty to the hometown she shared with me through her singing and her songwriting and she represented Limerick so well all over the world and the world lost her way too soon."
Tell us three things about yourself . . .
I started in music later in life after a career in medicine.
I am a wife of 30+ years and a mother of 20+ years.
I truly believe that music heals where words fail.
How would you describe your music?
I describe my music as "AmeriCeltiCana" - Americana with a Celtic twist!
Who are your musical inspirations?
Joan Armatrading, Brandi Carlile, Sinéad O'Connor, Dolores O'Riordan, Mary Black, John Prine.
What was the first gig you ever went to?
The first gig I ever went to was Horslips in Limerick City and I was absolutely blown away by their flawless combination of serene Celtic music and unforgiving rock!
What was the first record you ever bought?
The first record I ever bought was Hotel California by The Eagles.
What’s your favourite song right now?
My favourite song right now is The Story by Brandi Carlile.
Favourite lyric of all time?
"I am a sturdy soul, And there ain't no shame In layin' down in the bed you made . . . " - The Eye by Brandi Carlile.
If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Love And Affection by Joan Armatrading.
Where can people find your music/more information?
On all music platforms and Facebook.
Alan Corr
