Original music nights

A few weeks ago we were lucky to be part of Clubeo, an open music night in Leo’s Tavern in Donegal, where musicians perform their original music or covers, hosted by Moya Brennan. I can tell you that songwriters and musicians are in very safe hands with the Clubeo crew at this amazing event. It was so inspiring and supportive. We need more events like this.

I had heard about the monthly event for the first time back in September 2022, from Moya’s daughter Aisling while we were doing a songwriting camp together - Views of the Valley in Meath.

A group of us spent a few days writing songs with the intention of submitting to the Eurovision, under the guidance of Ben Pyne (organiser/ songwriter/ producer) and we had a great time while doing it. We didn’t manage to get into the competition but some of us definitely had a song we felt was good enough at the time. It was a very worthwhile few days and I got to meet some lovely people.

While we were there Aisling told me about Clubeo and it sounded like a great event, perfect for showcasing talent, especially songwriters wanting to perform their music to an appreciative crowd. There is always a headliner on the night and several other acts beforehand.

Last year we had planned to play the gig in May / June but Kevin broke his wrist around that time which put him out of action for a couple of months. We finally got a chance to play at the event on the 24th of May and the headliner was the fabulous Loah.

We were delighted to see that she was headlining as we know her from when we lived in Dublin.

I used to sing with her in Discovery Gospel Choir a few years ago and we even duetted a song on the Discovery album. She is an amazing artist and singer and it was a joy to see her perform again en vivo !

Loah has been doing some amazing things as a performer including duetting frequently with Lisa Hannigan, hosting a TV music show and releasing a tonne of beautiful music. Her next album is coming out next year so keep an eye out for that!

Leo’s Tavern is a lovely traditional styled bar, not unsimilar to Bree’s in Strandhill with the shape of the room and the wooden ceiling.

The night started fairly promptly at 9pm with an introduction from Moya Brennan and a song performed by her and her daughter Aisling. Each act was introduced nicely and had a 2 song slot. The audience attentively listened and clapped and we were all genuinely interested in every note played by each musician.

We were the 6th act to perform and we stepped onto the stage feeling a bit more nervous than normal. It’s always more nerve-wrecking performing your own material, especially at such a prestigious event, in the presence of Moya, Loah and a full room of talented musicians and avid listeners. We performed two songs - “Walls”, which always has me on the edge of my emotions, and “Take this Moment” which allowed for a lovely sing-along from the audience. What a magic moment !

I am always more elated after performing my own material, even if it isn’t a perfect performance, because being allowed to express yourself in such a raw way and for it to be received so well is the best feeling. It’s why you push past the nerves and do it anyway.

At the end of the gig we had a lovely sing song with some of the performers and it was so fulfilling and inspiring. The whole night reminded us why we play music - to feel and share emotions, to connect to others, to share the joy.

Kevin and I have been chatting for a while about trying to start up an original night here in Sligo, as there is so much talent here and in this country in general who don’t have enough opportunities to perform original music.

So we are delighted to finally be able to launch the first Lillie’s Live Lounge NEXT MONTH on Thursday July 18th upstairs in Lillies Cocktail Bar at 8pm. Go spread the word !

We already have a brilliant line up in store for it and we can’t wait to share it with you !

The night will be a monthly event upstairs in Lillies.

If you are an original artist in Sligo or in the rest of Ireland and would like to perform at one of the next upcoming events please get in touch :-)