Pat Shortt and Mike Hanrahan delve into 'Songs of Ireland' with local musicians for new RTÉ series

Entertainer Pat Shortt and Stockton’s Wing frontman Mike Hanrahan uncover the history and significance behind some of the nation's most beloved songs

Entertainer and musician Pat Shortt and Stockton’s Wing frontman Mike Hanrahan team up for an exhilarating musical adventure across Ireland in the new series Songs of Ireland.

The four-part series, starting on Saturday, April 27 at 9.15 pm on RTÉ One sees the pair take a musical road trip around the island of Ireland, combining the richness of Irish music, unique Irish culture, and the camaraderie of shared stories.

In each episode, Pat and Mike traverse the picturesque landscapes of Ireland, uncovering the history and significance behind some of the nation's most beloved songs.

Joining forces with both new and established local musicians in each county, Pat and Mike put their own twist on these prolific Irish songs, through unique performances in local venues across the country.

Speaking about the series, Pat Shortt said: “'Songs of Ireland' isn't just about the melodies; it's about the stories behind them, the places they come from, and the people who keep them alive. Embarking on this series with my old friend Mike has been an incredible experience, and we look forward to sharing our journey with audiences across the country”.

The series starts with a heartfelt journey through Mike’s native County Clare, where Pat and Mike join forces with acclaimed musician Tara Breen for a rendition of Spancil Hill.

Other highlights include a moving performance of Raglan Road with Asha Ari in Dublin, a rendition of Eileen Óg with Dervish’s Cathy Jordan in Roscommon, and an adaptation of The Reason I Left Mullingar with the band Cronin. The series culminates in the beautiful green glens of Co Donegal where Eve Belle joins Pat and Mike to perform Gleanntáin Ghlas Ghaoth Dobhair.

Episodic Breakdown

Episode 1

Clare - Spancil Hill with Tara Breen

Limerick - The Limerick Rake with Willzee

Kerry - The Wild Colonial Boy with Lorraine Nash

Cork - The Bauld Thady Quill with Kudos

Tipperary - Patrick Sheehan (The Glen of Aherlow) with Norma Manly

Episode 2

Wexford - Old Woman from Wexford with JaXson

Wicklow - The Meeting of the Waters with NIMF

Dublin - Raglan Road with Asha Ari

Kildare - The Curragh of Kildare with Bláithín Carney