Irish Music Artists: Best Music to Jig to

Kate Um, Sophia Kang

The land of skin fades, alleged leprechauns and lush greenery. Many music-artists have spawned from the Emerald Isle of Ireland with their distinct sounds across genres. Alongside highlighting the illustrious, deep-seated history of the following musicians, our personal music recommendations will also be provided.

The Cranberries

Born in Limerick, Ireland, The Cranberries were blessed upon the Irish people. You may recognize them from the soundtrack of the show, Derry Girls, or the cover of “Dreams” in Wong Kar-wai’s film, “Chungking Express.” Evidently, their hit songs, notably “Zombie”, have spread across hemispheres. The powerful chorus astounded everyone, yet The Cranberries revealed a deeper message against the war atrocities taking place in Ireland. Gold, red and silver hues splash the screens of the “Zombie” music video with heart-wrenching and provoking imagery of Irish kids subjected to the violence of soldiers. Referencing the year 1916, the band calls back to the beginnings of the Irish War of Independence, where the Irish nationalists staged a rebellion against the colonial British. 

While bravely confronting the historical atrocities of the past, The Cranberries don’t only owe their worldwide fame from hard-hitting songs. In fact, the band is special in how they dive vulnerably into ballad-like odes that yearn and churn the hearts of all. Songs like “Linger” and “Ode to My Family” feel like a warm embrace that can only express itself through song. The Cranberries is a band that can resonate with any part of your life. Although I recommend listening to their entire discography, I highly recommend listening to “Put Me Down” and “Dreams.” 

Hozier

On March 17, 1990, a babe was born and lay in a manger. And that baby would grow up to be a Jesus reincarnation known as Hozier. Andrew John Hozier-Byrne was born to artist Raine Hozier-Byrne and blues drummer/banker John Byrne. Hozier has previously stated in interviews that a majority of his family were artists and musicians, consequently supporting his decision to follow in their footsteps. He taught himself guitar, sang in the choir and started writing songs from an early age. The singer was a part of and toured with the ensemble group Anúna from 2007 to 2012. However, his official breakthrough was with his popular song “Take Me to Church,” which topped global charts and earned him a Grammy nomination for Song of the Year in 2015. 

Hozier has received critical acclaim for his lyricism and incorporation of social themes and the Irish language into his music. His lyrics are raw, vulnerable and beautifully composed to draw you in. Jesus Jr.’s first self-titled album/debut launched and showcased such abilities. Some good starters are “Jackie and Wilson,” “Cherry Wine” and “Like Real People Do.” From his second album, I recommend “Would That I” and “Movement.” But, in reality, the real way to get started with Hozier is to dive head first. So, sit in a field somewhere, put his entire discography on queue, and go frolick. 

Some other Irish musicians to check out: U2, Niall Horan, Sinéad O’Conner, Inhaler.