Feakle 2015....a Joe Fitz moment...

Joe Fitzgerald is originally from the Scariff area of County Clare..here he both tells the story of a song he carries with him everywhere and then he sings it beautifully in Peppers Pub. Irish emigrants from the area surrounding Feakle went to Australia and some worked as drovers..they drove cattle in Queensland and they were famous for their skill and dedication. This song captures much of the story of migration..links with homeland, understanding of the new land and the constant renegotiation of relationships and loss of significant ones. This didn't just happen when people left Ireland but continued as they traversed other borders..physical, cultural and emotional. Remember the importance of these songs for someone like Joe who left Ireland and grew up in Australia as an Irish man long before the internet and youtube..these songs connected you..not just to those who sang with you or listened to you but they connected the singer to his 'place' in the world. And yes that is Seamus Begley sitting beside him..Seamus is someone who recognises and admires Joe's talent. Derek Hickey is the other box player. Uploaded with permission. The song is called 'Andy's gone a'droving'. Forgive me but my fumbling fingers lost the last thirty seconds of the song :(

[@eileennestor9274]

What a lovely story and song..great singer too well done

[@michaelwestwood7865]

Go Joe n nice to hear you again.

[@nf54551]

Drive em on lads.