Kildare singer songwriter, musician, poet, and traditional Irish fiddle player Mairéad Carroll has released her new single, It's Time. We asked her the BIG questions . . .
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Mairéad, who has been part of the Irish music scene for almost 30 years, worked with Grammy-nominated producer Billy Farrell (The Corrs) on her new track.
Tell us three things about yourself . . .
I became a songwriter unintentionally when a melody came while I was writing a poem for my beloved brother John in 2020. I had always loved playing my fiddle and writing poetry for healing and expression, even weaving poetry into my psychotherapy degree essays and dissertation. My debut song, Can I Say I Love You One More Time?, opened my heart and mind into the mysterious and beautiful world of songwriting.
The first song I cried to was Puff the Magic Dragon, aged five. I remember being transported from my classroom and going on a wonderful adventure and crying my heart out at the sad ending of the song. Looking back now I was always destined to be a counsellor and songwriter.
My favourite birds are buzzards. It was during lockdown when I saw them for the first time and heard their song. I get very excited when I see them as I feel they remind me that there is so much beauty in our world but sometimes we just need the time to look up.
How would you describe your music?
My signature sound would be heartfelt and uplifting with soothing melodies and soulful Celtic strings sounds, all crafted to tell stories of love, loss and overcoming and a celebration of the joys of life.
Who are your musical inspirations?
Artists like Annie Lennox and Cyndi Lauper inspire me not only to create great music but they also inspire me in how they advocate for peace and justice.
What was the first gig you ever went to?
My first gig was Def Leppard and also my first proper date. I remember seeing a lot of hairy armpits for the first time too.
What was the first record you ever bought?
Thriller by Michael Jackson.
What’s your favourite song right now?
Pink Pony Club by Chappel Roan.
What’s your favourite lyric of all time?
"I’ve looked at life from both sides now, from up and down and still somehow…I really don’t know life at all." - Both Sides Now by Joni Michell.
If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Landslide by Stevie Nicks.
Where can people find your music/more information?
My website shares links to my music and social media platforms. Read my blog or sign up to my newsletter. You are welcome to follow me on: Instagram: maireadcarroll12, TikTok: maireadcarroll12 - you can also find me on LinkedIn, Facebook and YouTube all under my name.
Alan Corr
