Irish & Celtic Music Podcast

The Cuckoo sings in May and the King of the Dogwoods reigns over an hour built from polkas, ballads, and Gaelic song. This episode moves between Ireland, Scotland, and the wider Celtic diaspora, featuring both first - time voices on the show and beloved regulars who have shaped its sound for years. It's the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #770.  -  -  Subscribe now at CelticMusicPodcast.com!
 
Trí, Celtic Underground, Blackwillow Starling, Caitlin Finley & Will Woodson, Irish Millie, The Bilge Pumps, Callan, Boiled In Lead, Mairi McGillivray, Hadrian's Wall, Colin Steele, Sean Griffin, The Tan and Sober Gentlemen, John Doyle
 
Marc Gunn, Trí, Blackwillow Starling, Irish Millie, Mairi McGillivray, Sean Griffin, Colin Steele, John Doyle, Boiled In Lead




GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOX
 
The Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what's happening with Celtic music and culture online.


Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.



VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2026
 
This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create this year's Best Celtic music episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now!


THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC
 
0:02 - Intro: Tom Field
 
0:10 - Trí "The Manchester / The Old Bush / The Banks of the Ilen" from The Cuckoo Sings in May
 
3:31 - WELCOME
 
5:12 - Celtic Underground "John Ryan's Polka / Hills of Connemara" from You Can Always Go Home
 
8:52 - Blackwillow Starling "Guardian of the Grove" from Thornaeppel
 
11:36 - Caitlin Finley & Will Woodson "The Peeler's Jacket / The Duke of Leinster" from Once Through the Hall
 
14:01 - Irish Millie "CINEMA" from Can You See Me?
 
17:34 - FEEDBACK
 
19:14 - The Bilge Pumps "Roll the Old Chariot Along" from Greatest Hits, Vols I - VII
 
21:58 - Callan "Amazing Grace" from Callan Song Book
 
25:24 - Boiled In Lead "The King of the Dogwoods" from King of the Dogwoods
 
28:47 - Mairi McGillivray "'S Mòr mo Chùram" from Mo Thìr
 
31:46 - THANKS
 
33:41 - Hadrian's Wall "Check in with Toronto" from Play Us a Tune
 
36:43 - Colin Steele "Benromach" from Stramash II
 
43:20 - Sean Griffin "JFK" from People Are Mad
 
47:51 - The Tan and Sober Gentlemen "Rabbit" from Veracity
 
51:05 - CLOSING
 
51:56 - John Doyle "An Irishman's Epistle To The People Of America" from Free by Nature: Songs of the Irish in the American Revolution
 
56:50 - CREDITS
 
Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com
 
Support for this program comes from Cascadia Cross Border Law Group, Creating Transparent Borders for more than twenty five years, serving Alaska and the world. Find out more at   www.CascadiaLawAlaska.com 
 
Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.
 
Support for this program comes from Dr. Annie Lorkowski of Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California. 
 
Support for this program comes from John Sharkey White, II.
 
The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You'll find links to all of the artists played in this episode. 
 
Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you'll get 7 weekly news items about what's happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.
 
Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor. 
 
Finally, remember: the sun and the wind never send you a fuel bill.
 
Last year, solar and wind grew fast enough to cover all of the world's new electricity demand, and they're still the cheapest new power ever built. Solar and wind are now the cheapest power sources in history, and their costs keep falling while fossil fuel prices swing with every crisis.
 
Choose clean energy, and ask your leaders to do the same. Clean energy means lower costs, more freedom, and a planet that can actually breathe.
 
Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.


WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST

* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn. I'm a Celtic musician and also host of Pub Songs & Stories. Every song has a story, every episode is a toast to Celtic and folk songwriters.
 
This podcast is for fans of all kinds of Celtic music. We are here to build a diverse Celtic community and help the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. If you hear music you love, please email the artists to let them know you heard them on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. 
 
Because we are more than just a radio show. We are a community. A community of Celtic music and culture lovers. We support small and local artists. We spend money on things that truly matter. The personal and heart felt. 
 
You can do that with each of the artists on today's show OR your favorite artists. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon. 
 
You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com. 



ALBUM PINS ARE CHANGING THE WAY WE HEAR CELTIC MUSIC
 
Looking for a fresh way to support the music you love? Meet the Album Pin.
 
Album Pins are lapel pins themed to a specific album — and each one comes with a digital download. Wear your music. All of my latest pins are wood - burned and locally produced, which means a smaller footprint and a one - of - a - kind feel you won't find anywhere else.
 
Pick yours up at magerecords.com 



THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!
 
A huge Celtic thank you to the Patrons of the Podcast. You are the reason this show comes out every single week. Your generosity keeps the music playing, pays for the audio engineering that makes each episode sound great, and puts independent Celtic artists in front of thousands of new ears.
 
Being a patron comes with real perks. You get early access to episodes before anyone else. You get music - only versions of the show with none of the chit chat. You get free music downloads, exclusive behind the scenes content, and a vote in the Celtic Top 20 that shapes what we all hear. Most of all, you get to be part of a warm, welcoming community of people who love this music as much as you do.
 
If you have been thinking about joining us, there has never been a better time. Come see what the community is all about at SongHenge.com. Sláinte!
 
HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST
 
Go to our Patreon page.

Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $30. 

Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.


You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.
 
TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS
 
Every year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos. Learn more about the Celtic Invasion of Hiking the Isle of Skye in 2027 at http://celticinvasion.com/


#celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACK

What are you doing today while listening to the podcast? Send me a photo. If you're in a Celtic band, send me an audio recording of you performing live. Just audio. I'll use it in a podcast episode later this year.
 
Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.
 
Gwênlyn Glusman emailed: "Hi Marc,
 
Since you're planning the trip to Galicia, I thought you might be interested in episode #128 of the "Gaeilge Weekly" podcast  -  about Galicia, of course! It came out yesterday.
 
Note that each episode of the podcast comes in three versions: the "gnáthleagan" (standard) fully in Irish, the "níos simplí" (simpler) version, and the "i bhfad níos simplí" (even simpler) version. The simpler versions are slower and mix Irish and English.
 
Slán,
 -  -  Gwênlyn (she/her)"

This week's journey rambles from an English rover to a horned god of the old woods, then across the black river to a Barra Gaelic song carried down through generations. Fourteen tracks of fiddle, whistle, pipes, and rowdy pub harmony travel from Boston to Newfoundland to the shores of Australia. It's the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #768.  -  -  Subscribe now at CelticMusicPodcast.com!
Jim Moray, Seán Heely, Donnie 'Large' Macdonald, Avourneen, Maggie MacInnes, Slugger's Rule, Nathan Gourley, Joey Abarta, and Owen Marshall, Skara Brae, Natalie Padilla, Kevin Meehan, Brad Tuck, Drumspyder, Highlander Celtic Rock Band Australia, MacCumhaill and the Gang
GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOX
The Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what's happening with Celtic music and culture online.
Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.
VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2026
This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create this year's Best Celtic music episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now!

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC
0:02 - Intro: Ken Spencer
0:14 - Jim Moray "Spencer The Rover" from Gallants
4:25 - WELCOME
6:02 - Seán Heely "Cernunnos : An Dia Adharcach (The Horned God)" from Dramagical
15:02 - Donnie 'Large' Macdonald "Ar Baile (Our Village)" from Christina
19:48 - Avourneen "Cunner Point Across the Black River" from Way Stations
24:27 - Maggie MacInnes "Nì Mhic Ailein, na bì' n èud rium" from Uiseagan Bharraigh
28:32 - FEEDBACK
29:28 - Slugger's Rule "Juice of the Barley" from Clusterfolk
32:22 - Nathan Gourley, Joey Abarta, and Owen Marshall "The Primrose Road / The Tramp / Martin Wynne's" from Copley Street 2
35:51 - Skara Brae "Craic Addict" from The Mists of Time
39:08 - Natalie Padilla "Seedskadee" from Paths and Places
42:15 - THANKS
43:44 - Kevin Meehan "The Glasgow Set" from Spanish Point
49:17 - Brad Tuck "I've Been Told" from On These Waters
53:11 - Drumspyder "The Dunmore Lasses" from Kenning
57:13 - Highlander Celtic Rock Band Australia "Reel Set" from Start the Fire
1:00:11 - CLOSING
1:01:10 - MacCumhaill and the Gang "Dreams of Nevermore" from 2
1:04:43 - CREDITS
Support for this program comes from John Sharkey White, II.
Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com
Support for this program comes from Cascadia Cross Border Law Group, Creating Transparent Borders for more than twenty five years, serving Alaska and the world. Find out more at   www.CascadiaLawAlaska.com
Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.
Support for this program comes from Dr. Annie Lorkowski of Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California.
The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You'll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.
Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you'll get 7 weekly news items about what's happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.
Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.
Finally, remember: the sun and the wind never send you a fuel bill.
Last year, solar and wind grew fast enough to cover all of the world's new electricity demand, and they're still the cheapest new power ever built. Solar and wind are now the cheapest power sources in history, and their costs keep falling while fossil fuel prices swing with every crisis.
Choose clean energy, and ask your leaders to do the same. Clean energy means lower costs, more freedom, and a planet that can actually breathe.
Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.
WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST
* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn. I'm a Celtic musician and also host of Pub Songs & Stories, where I share stories behind my songs and those of other Celtic and folk musicians.
This podcast is for fans of all kinds of Celtic music. We are here to build a diverse Celtic community and help the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. If you hear music you love, please email the artists to let them know you heard them on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast.
As with all things, it is important to support our community, whether that is local or in a small niche we love like "Celtic music". Skip the big corporate businesses and bands. Instead, spend your money where it will make a difference. You can do that with each of the artists on today's show OR your favorite artists. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon.
You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.
ALBUM PINS ARE CHANGING THE WAY WE HEAR CELTIC MUSIC
Looking for a fresh way to support the music you love? Meet the Album Pin.
Album Pins are lapel pins themed to a specific album — and each one comes with a digital download. Wear your music. All of my latest pins are wood - burned and locally produced, which means a smaller footprint and a one - of - a - kind feel you won't find anywhere else.
Pick yours up at magerecords.com
THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!
A huge Celtic thank you to every patron of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. You are the reason this show stays free, week after week, year after year. Your support keeps independent Celtic musicians in the spotlight and keeps this whole community thriving.
Being a patron means more than helping the music along. You get the episodes early and ad - free. You get exclusive songs, behind - the - scenes stories, and a warm circle of fellow Celtic music lovers who show up every single week. You help decide which artists get heard, and you become part of something far bigger than a playlist.
If you have been listening for a while and wondering how to get closer to the music you love, there is a seat waiting for you. Come find your place at the table over at SongHenge.com.
HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST
Go to our Patreon page.
Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $30.
Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.
You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.
TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS
Every year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos. Learn more about the Celtic Invasion of Hiking the Isle of Skye in 2027 at http://celticinvasion.com/
#celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast
I WANT YOUR FEEDBACK
What are you doing today while listening to the podcast? Send me a photo. If you're in a Celtic band, send me an audio recording of you performing live. Just audio. I'll use it in a podcast episode later this year.
Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Gather up your packs and lets hit the Highland Road. It's the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #768.  -  -  Subscribe now at CelticMusicPodcast.com!
Mary - Grace Autumn Lee, Open The Door For Three, Almost Seamus, Juha Rossi, Avourneen, Rogue Diplomats, TJ Hull and Amanda Caretta - Hull, The Bilge Pumps, Gwendolyn Snowdon & Cathinca, Release the Craicen, Medusa's Wake, Bang on the Ear, Pressgang Mutiny, Maggie MacInnes
GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOX
The Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what's happening with Celtic music and culture online.
Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.
VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2026
This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create this year's Best Celtic music episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now!

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC
0:02 - Intro: James Stovehouse
0:08 - Mary - Grace Autumn Lee "Helen Burns': Black Pat's/Over the Moor to Maggie's (Reels)" from Eyre
4:52 - WELCOME
6:21 - Open The Door For Three "Farewell, Lovely Mary/The Lizzes" from A Prosperous Gale
11:11 - Almost Seamus "Old First Ward" from Almost Seamus
14:28 - Juha Rossi "Miss MacDermott (Princess Royal)" from O'Carolan Tunes on Mandolin
17:07 - Avourneen "Stony Steps" from Way Stations
22:00 - FEEDBACK
25:18 - Rogue Diplomats "Mary Mac / Drunken Sailor" from Whiskey Picnic
28:30 - TJ Hull and Amanda Caretta - Hull "The Bunch of Keys" from Tippy Taps
32:31 - The Bilge Pumps "Old Salt" from Greatest Hits, Vols I - VII
36:57 - Gwendolyn Snowdon & Cathinca "Lyke - Wake Dirge" from Fabula Feminae  -  EP
41:49 - THANKS
43:38 - Release the Craicen "Ode to Our Lost Fiddler / St. Anne's Reel" from Live! Songs on a Boat
48:04 - Medusa's Wake "Irish Sky" from Rascals and Rogues
52:23 - Bang on the Ear "The Black Tar Fiddle Set" from Highland Road
56:22 - Pressgang Mutiny "TEU" from Departure
1:01:15 - CLOSING
1:02:07 - Maggie MacInnes "Toiseach na Tràghad" from Uiseagan Bharraigh
1:06:23 - CREDITS
Support for this program comes from Dr. Annie Lorkowski of Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California.
Support for this program comes from John Sharkey White, II.
Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com
Support for this program comes from Cascadia Cross Border Law Group, Creating Transparent Borders for more than twenty five years, serving Alaska and the world. Find out more at   www.CascadiaLawAlaska.com
Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.
The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You'll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.
Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you'll get 7 weekly news items about what's happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.
Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.
Finally, remember: plastic isn't just a waste problem, it's a climate problem. Most plastic is made from oil and gas, and producing it releases greenhouse gases at every step. This July, take part in Plastic Free July. Swap single use plastics for reusable bags, bottles, and containers.
Solar and wind are now the cheapest power sources in history. Cutting plastic is another way to shrink demand for the fossil fuels behind it. Reduce your waste this month, one choice at a time.
Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.
WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST
* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn. I'm a Celtic musician and also host of Pub Songs & Stories, where I share stories behind my songs and those of other Celtic and folk musicians.
This podcast is for fans of all kinds of Celtic music. We are here to build a diverse Celtic community and help the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. If you hear music you love, please email the artists to let them know you heard them on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast.
As with all things, it is important to support our community, whether that is local or in a small niche we love like "Celtic music". Skip the big corporate businesses and bands. Instead, spend your money where it will make a difference. You can do that with each of the artists on today's show OR your favorite artists. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon.
You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.
ALBUM PINS ARE CHANGING THE WAY WE HEAR CELTIC MUSIC
Looking for a fresh way to support the music you love? Meet the Album Pin.
Album Pins are lapel pins themed to a specific album — and each one comes with a digital download. Wear your music. All of my latest pins are wood - burned and locally produced, which means a smaller footprint and a one - of - a - kind feel you won't find anywhere else.
Pick yours up at magerecords.com
THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!
Because of generous patrons like you, the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast releases new episodes nearly every single week, including this one. Your support doesn't just fund the show, it fuels a movement. It helps us share the magic of Celtic music with thousands of new listeners and grow a global community of music lovers
Your contributions pay for everything behind the scenes. Audio engineering. Stunning graphics. Weekly issues of the Celtic Music Magazine. Show promotion. And most importantly, buying the music we feature from indie Celtic artists like the ones you heard today.
And if you're not yet a patron? You're missing out! Patrons get:
Early access to episodes
Music - only editions
Free MP3 downloads
Exclusive stories and artist interviews
A vote in the Celtic Top 20
All of this lives over at SongHenge.com.
HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST
Go to our Patreon page.
Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $30.
Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.
You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.
TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS
Every year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos. Learn more about the Celtic Invasion of Hiking the Isle of Skye in 2027 at http://celticinvasion.com/
#celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast
I WANT YOUR FEEDBACK
What are you doing today while listening to the podcast? Send me a photo. If you're in a Celtic band, send me an audio recording of you performing live. Just audio. I'll use it in a podcast episode later this year.
Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.
Isobel McMahon messaged on Patreon: "I appreciate this clear statement on AI."
Jordan Reeder sent a photo: "Hi, just wanted to show what I was doing while enjoying the awesome music on the podcast… one of these days I'd love to submit some of my music. Maybe after I chop my way through this pile of firewood!

Alex Meyers emailed from Toronto: "Politically neutral Irish music does not exist. Hi Marc, I started listening to the podcast seven years ago as I took my newborn son for long walks with wireless speakers perched on his stroller so he could listen too. Now with two boys we frequently listen while we have breakfast.
In a recent episode you responded to yet another listener who told you to stick to music and leave the politics alone. I am always impressed by how resolute you are in the face of these cynics, you never try to soften the message of peace, compassion, and inclusion.
Also, I've always found it hilariously ironic that someone would say "leave out the politics" about IRISH music, 1/3 of all Irish songs are about oppression and kicking out the British. Have these people never listened to The Wolfe Tones or The Cranberries?
Speaking of which, I highly recommend you check out the Irish rap group Kneecap. They perform in Irish/Gaeilge and English and deserve massive credit for popularizing Gaeilge. They are firmly on the side of the oppressed from Ireland to Palestine and their latest album is "Fenian", which should tell you something about their politics.
Keep up the great work!"

A playlist that goes from the Snug all the way to the Shannon. Blackwillow Starling brings Lughnasadh morning vibes, River Driver takes us to Donegal Bay, and Leevy delivers that Top Road energy. Plus new music from Sean Griffin to close things out. It's the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #767.  -  -  Subscribe now at CelticMusicPodcast.com!
Arise & Go, Boxing Robin, Blackwillow Starling, Tulua, Dervish featuring Cathy Jordan, Leevy, Colin Steele, CaliCeltic, The Tan and Sober Gentlemen, River Driver, Dropkick Murphys, Sean Griffin
GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOX
The Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what's happening with Celtic music and culture online.
Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.
VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2026
This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create this year's Best Celtic music episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now!

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC
0:02 - Intro: Emily Huffman
0:10 - Arise & Go – "Munlochy Bridge / The Editor's Favourite / Portencross Castle / MacKinnon's Other Rant / Attwood O'Connor's / Dr. Alasdair MacKenzie's / The Lassie's Fashion / The Primrose Lass" from Moments of Light
5:48 - WELCOME
7:13 - Boxing Robin – "The Scots Guards Set" from Land of the Noon - Day Moon
11:17 - Blackwillow Starling – "Lughnasadh Morning" from Thornaeppel
16:33 - Tulua – "Ebb and Flow / Dawn of Dara / Scartaglen (Waltz / Jigs)" from In The Snug
21:54 - Dervish featuring Cathy Jordan – "The Broad Majestic Shannon" from The Great Irish Songbook Vol 2: Poets & Storytellers
26:04 - FEEDBACK
27:53 - Plastic Free July
30:46 - Leevy – "The Top Road Band" from Baile Mhúirne or the Soldiers March the Paps of Anú
34:45 - Colin Steele – "Elgin Laddie" from Stramash II
39:49 - CaliCeltic – "The Humours of Whiskey - Stick to the Craytur - Paddy's Panacea" from West of Shannon
44:21 - THANKS
46:11 - The Tan and Sober Gentlemen – "Waterbound" from Veracity
48:28 - River Driver – "Donegal Bay"
52:34 - Dropkick Murphys – "Chesterfields and Aftershave" from For The People (Expanded Edition)
56:59 - CLOSING
57:42 - Sean Griffin – "People Are Mad" from People Are Mad
1:00:44 - CREDITS
Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.
Support for this program comes from Dr. Annie Lorkowski of Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California.
Support for this program comes from John Sharkey White, II.
Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com
Support for this program comes from Cascadia Cross Border Law Group, Creating Transparent Borders for more than twenty five years, serving Alaska and the world. Find out more at   www.CascadiaLawAlaska.com
The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You'll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.
Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you'll get 7 weekly news items about what's happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.
Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.
Finally, remember: plastic isn't just a waste problem, it's a climate problem. Most plastic is made from oil and gas, and producing it releases greenhouse gases at every step. This July, take part in Plastic Free July. Swap single use plastics for reusable bags, bottles, and containers.
Solar and wind are now the cheapest power sources in history. Cutting plastic is another way to shrink demand for the fossil fuels behind it. Reduce your waste this month, one choice at a time.
Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.
WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST
* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn. I'm a Celtic musician and also host of Pub Songs & Stories, where I share stories behind my songs and those of other Celtic and folk musicians.
This podcast is for fans of all kinds of Celtic music. We are here to build a diverse Celtic community and help the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. If you hear music you love, please email the artists to let them know you heard them on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast.
As with all things, it is important to support our community, whether that is local or in a small niche we love like "Celtic music". Skip the big corporate businesses and bands. Instead, spend your money where it will make a difference. You can do that with each of the artists on today's show OR your favorite artists. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon.
You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.
ALBUM PINS ARE CHANGING THE WAY WE HEAR CELTIC MUSIC
Looking for a fresh way to support the music you love? Meet the Album Pin.
Album Pins are lapel pins themed to a specific album — and each one comes with a digital download. Wear your music. All of my latest pins are wood - burned and locally produced, which means a smaller footprint and a one - of - a - kind feel you won't find anywhere else.
Pick yours up at magerecords.com
THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!
Because of generous patrons like you, the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast releases new episodes nearly every single week, including this one. Your support doesn't just fund the show, it fuels a movement. It helps us share the magic of Celtic music with thousands of new listeners and grow a global community of music lovers, all while spotlighting artists like Arise & Go, Tulua, Dervish, and the rest of this week's lineup.
Your contributions pay for everything behind the scenes. Audio engineering. Stunning graphics. Weekly issues of the Celtic Music Magazine. Show promotion. And most importantly, buying the music we feature from indie Celtic artists like the ones you heard today.
And if you're not yet a patron? You're missing out! Patrons get:
Early access to episodes
Music - only editions
Free MP3 downloads
Exclusive stories and artist interviews
A vote in the Celtic Top 20
All of this lives over at SongHenge.com.
A special thanks to our newest Patron: Manuel Duarte
HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST
Go to our Patreon page.
Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $30.
Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.
You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.
TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS
Every year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos. Learn more about the Celtic Invasion of Hiking the Isle of Skye in 2027 at http://celticinvasion.com/
#celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast
I WANT YOUR FEEDBACK
What are you doing today while listening to the podcast? Send me a photo. If you're in a Celtic band, send me an audio recording of you performing live. Just audio. I'll use it in a podcast episode later this year.
Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.
Jonathan Dyer emailed: "Hey Marc, Thank you thank you.
Lovely programme as always (I'm currently listening … as far as Dál Riata so far… whilst sending the final DDP and artwork off for the album.  So it's really finished.… and trying not to melt in the unseasonably weather that we're really not cut out for. Much love"
John Mahony messaged on Patreon: "Mark, thanks and bravo for the stand on AI. It seems it's getting harder and harder to avoid, let alone the impact on the environment and people's jobs in other fields. Let's keep finding ways to support real people making real music! Slainte!"
John Sharkey White, II messaged in response to the Plastic Free July PSA: "Hi Mark, I was listening to one of your latest podcasts and, as a physician, thought I could add to your discussion of plastics. I wanted to share some important health information about plastic containers. New research shows that tiny pieces of plastic — called microplastics — may be getting into our bodies more than most people realize.
What Are Microplastics?
Microplastics are very small plastic pieces, usually smaller than a pencil eraser. They break off from larger plastics over time. Scientists have found these particles in human blood, lungs, liver, and even in unborn babies. This means most people are already being exposed.
How Do They Get Into Our Bodies?
Plastic food and drink containers are one of the main sources. When plastic containers get scratched, worn out, or heated up, they can release tiny particles into your food or drink. Bottled water and packaged foods are also common sources. Plastics also contain added chemicals — like phthalates and bisphenols — that can leak into what you eat and drink.
Why Does It Matter?
Scientists are still learning how harmful microplastics really are, but early studies suggest they may cause inflammation, cell damage, and problems with the immune system. Some research also points to possible links with heart disease and reproductive health. Most experts agree that more studies are needed before we fully understand the risks.
What Can You Do?
The good news is there are simple steps you can take to lower your exposure:
Switch to glass, stainless steel, or ceramic containers when you can
Never microwave food in plastic — heat causes plastic to release more particles and chemicals
Use a reusable stainless - steel water bottle instead of single - use plastic bottles
Cut back on bottled water
Try to buy food with less plastic packaging
Throw away old or scratched plastic containers
Dust and vacuum your home regularly — microplastics can float in the air too
You probably can't avoid microplastics completely, but these small changes can
make a real difference while scientists continue to study the long - term effects."

Streams of whiskey. A waltz in the Gaelic tongue. A flame called Lasair burning through it all. This week's episode takes you from Loch Maree to the streets of Toulouse, fifteen artists strong. Let's go. It's the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #766.  -  -  Subscribe now at CelticMusicPodcast.com!
The Here & Now, Trouz Bras, Gwendolyn Snowdon & Cathinca, Cedar Dobson and Debojyoti Sanyal, Mairi McGillivray, The McDades, Ned Bigham, The Edinburgh Quartet & Màiri Macmillan, Vicki Swan & Jonny Dyer, Donnie 'Large' Macdonald, Hildaland, Mànran, Seán - Pól Ó Peatáin, O'Konrads band, Jiggy, Tara's Folk
GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOX
The Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what's happening with Celtic music and culture online.
Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.
VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2026
This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create this year's Best Celtic music episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now!

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC
0:02 - Intro: Amy Bradley
0:10 - The Here & Now  -  "Lovely Miss Gunning" from Ladybird
4:37 - WELCOME
6:16 - Trouz Bras  -  "Quand J'etais Jeune / Birthday Dance" from Edge of the Spiral: Celtic Music of Brittany
12:58 - Gwendolyn Snowdon & Cathinca  -  "Dúlamán" from Fabula Feminae  -  EP
15:41 - Cedar Dobson and Debojyoti Sanyal  -  "The Flogging Reel" from From Kolkata to Dublin
18:08 - Mairi McGillivray  -  "'S Mor mo Churam" from Mo Thìr
21:07 - FEEDBACK
24:36 - The McDades  -  "Gaelic Waltz Part 1" from Thread The Light
26:08 - Ned Bigham, The Edinburgh Quartet & Màiri Macmillan  -  "Laoidh a' Choin Duibh (the Lay of the Black Dog)" from The Heroic Ballads  -  Laoidhean nan Gaisgeach  -  EP
31:15 - Vicki Swan & Jonny Dyer  -  "Kahlua" from Come Bring With A Noise
35:22 - Donnie 'Large' Macdonald  -  "A' Mheanbh - chuileag (The Midge)" from Christina
38:07 - Hildaland  -  "Sandy's Waltz (feat. Ethan Setiawan & Louise Bichan)" from Fiddle Tunes (feat. Ethan Setiawan & Louise Bichan)  -  EP
41:19 - THANKS
43:18 - Mànran (feat. Ruairidh Gray)  -  "Loch Maree Islands" from single
46:17 - Seán - Pól  -  "The King of The Fairies" from single
49:30 - O'Konrads band  -  "Streams of Whiskey" from Streams of Whiskey
52:05 - Jiggy  -  "Lasair"
56:32 - CLOSING
57:31 - Tara's Folk  -  "How many Roads" from remember how we fall
1:01:45 - CREDITS
Support for this program comes from Cascadia Cross Border Law Group, Creating Transparent Borders for more than twenty five years, serving Alaska and the world. Find out more at   www.CascadiaLawAlaska.com
Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward.
Support for this program comes from Dr. Annie Lorkowski of Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California.
Support for this program comes from John Sharkey White, II.
Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com
The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You'll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.
Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you'll get 7 weekly news items about what's happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.
Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.
Finally, remember: plastic isn't just a waste problem, it's a climate problem. Most plastic is made from oil and gas, and producing it releases greenhouse gases at every step. This July, take part in Plastic Free July. Swap single use plastics for reusable bags, bottles, and containers.
Solar and wind are now the cheapest power sources in history. Cutting plastic is another way to shrink demand for the fossil fuels behind it. Reduce your waste this month, one choice at a time.
Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.
WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST
* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn. I'm a Celtic musician and also host of Pub Songs & Stories, where I share stories behind my songs and those of other Celtic and folk musicians.
This podcast is for fans of all kinds of Celtic music. We are here to build a diverse Celtic community and help the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. If you hear music you love, please email the artists to let them know you heard them on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast.
As with all things, it is important to support our community, whether that is local or in a small niche we love like "Celtic music". Skip the big corporate businesses and bands. Instead, spend your money where it will make a difference. You can do that with each of the artists on today's show OR your favorite artists. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon.
You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.
ALBUM PINS ARE CHANGING THE WAY WE HEAR CELTIC MUSIC
Looking for a fresh way to support the music you love? Meet the Album Pin.
Album Pins are lapel pins themed to a specific album — and each one comes with a digital download. Wear your music. All of my latest pins are wood - burned and locally produced, which means a smaller footprint and a one - of - a - kind feel you won't find anywhere else.
Pick yours up at magerecords.com
THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!
We're approaching 21 years of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Since day one, this show has relied on the generosity of kind people like you. You inspire me to keep hunting down new music, interviews and stories from our community. So I can keep sharing this show with you. I am so grateful to you. Thank you so much.
As a patron, you get episodes before regular listeners. You get patron - only episodes like the Highlight Reel that came out last week. You get to vote in the Celtic Top 20 to help us collect the absolute best songs and tunes of the year into one magnificent end - of - year episode. And you keep this show running.
A special thanks to our Celtic Legends: Alan Schindler, Brian McReynolds, Bruce, Dan mcDade, Daniel Ide, Dave and Rosie Donnelly, Fuzzy, Gary R Hook, Gerald F Boyle, Jeff A, Kelly Garrod, Lynda MacNeil, Margreta Silverstone, Marti Meyers, Mike Schock, Miranda Nelson, Rick Boyce, Shawn Cali
HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST
Go to our Patreon page.
Decide how much you want to pledge every month, $4, $12, $30.
Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.
You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.
TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS
Every year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos. Learn more about the Celtic Invasion of Hiking the Isle of Skye in 2027 at http://celticinvasion.com/
#celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast
I WANT YOUR FEEDBACK
What are you doing today while listening to the podcast? Send me a photo. If you're in a Celtic band, send me an audio recording of you performing live. Just audio. I'll use it in a podcast episode later this year.
Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.
Ashley Paskill emailed in response to my question of how you celebrate Celtic culture through music. She wrote: "I listen to Celtic music in the car. When I give people rides, we get to share the music! It is always so powerful to hear friends mention how particular songs meant so much to them growing up and connect with them on that level."
Heidi Murphy sent a picture: "Sorry. Just found this note. So I'm attaching that picture now. It's 2026 and this year I celebrated by going to see Danu and then by playing bodhran and tin whistle at home. Let me just say Danu was magnificent. LOVED it!!!"

Kelly Garrod emailed: "Hi Marc,
The music featured on your podcast has always been wonderful with good information from your comments.  I prefer listening to the version with comments rather than the music only.  I believe you do a good job of featuring wonderful Celtic music, featuring new artists that I might otherwise never hear while providing comments on both the music and views of the world.  The comments are concise, do not distract from the overall experience of the podcast and relevant to many of the stories in the music you feature.
This is to let you know that I appreciate your political comments with your perspective on various topics.  In today's political world, I believe it is important to articulate those viewpoints on any platform we have.  Since I keep a low social media profile, and have limited options, I am pleased to support one that I regularly support.
As a Patreon of your podcast for many years, I plan to keep supporting your work for many years to come.  Please keep doing the good stuff you are doing! Thanks"