20 years ago I'd never have imagined a reality in which a music star could decide the outcome of an election. Any election. But definitely not the US presidential election. However Taylor Swift's influence on voters is apparently a big deal. So much so that one of France's biggest daily newspapers, Libé, dedicated today's front page to the story: They've also focussed … [Read more...] about Could Taylor Swift Decide the US Presidential Election?
Irish Around the World for St Patrick’s Day
This weekend is a long weekend here in Ireland, as it's our national holiday on Sunday: St Patrick's Day. I've been in the US for St Patrick's Day a couple of times and it's been an "experience". Irish people have spread to the four corners of the globe. And the Irish government's greeting video this year celebrates that, as well as our diversity: And remember, … [Read more...] about Irish Around the World for St Patrick’s Day
Tracy Chapman Duet With Luke Combs at Grammys
I've mentioned Tracy Chapman a few times over the years. Last year her hit song "Fast Car" got a well deserved revival when it was covered by Country star Luke Combs. That cover version has meant that Chapman's music has been introduced to a whole new generation of fans. So we all got a special treat when Tracy Chapman and Luke Combs performed live together at the Grammy's … [Read more...] about Tracy Chapman Duet With Luke Combs at Grammys
The “Joys” of Acquiring Concert Tickets
Over the last couple of years I've been going to a lot of concerts and other types of live events. While getting tickets for some is easy, with many of the more popular acts it's far from easy. Case in point, Taylor Swift. Taylor Swift will be touring Europe in summer 2024. To get tickets for any of the concerts you had to "pre-register" and then if you were "lucky" … [Read more...] about The “Joys” of Acquiring Concert Tickets
The Last Bookstore
I've always loved bookshops. Not just ones stuffed with new books, but also old ones. Used books. Books with a history. Books that have had a life. Books where you are, somehow, connecting at some level with the previous owner or owners who has long past. That owner could be a personal friend, an acquaintance, a family member, a celebrity or simply a random person who owned the … [Read more...] about The Last Bookstore