The Irish Descendants are a folk group from St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador.
All the members, born of Irish emigrants, were workers in the Newfoundland fishing industry before forming the band in 1990 out of the remnants of two former Newfoundland bands – The Descendants and Irish Coffee.
With over 7,000,000 streams on Spotify, “Rattlin Bog” from their album, Gypsies And Lovers, is truly a fan favourite.
The Irish Descendants are set to play Friday, July 21 at Stan Rogers Folk Festival in Canso, Nova Scotia.
Listen to “Rattlin Bog” below and learn more about The Irish Descendants via our StanFest interview.
First off, care to introduce yourself to our readers?
From the rocky coastal outports of the Island of Newfoundland, (the Far East of the Western World), the multi-award-winning Irish Descendants have carved a prestigious reputation over nearly 35 years of performing. With well over 6000 live shows to their credit, this iconic Canadian folk group guided by the leadership of Con O’Brien (lead vocalist) has toured all throughout North America and beyond, sharing the music of their ancestral Irish home and that of their beloved Newfoundland and Labrador. With impeccable musicianship and vocal prowess, combined with amazing stories and wit, The Irish Descendants continually deliver vivid memories of who they are and where they come from to satisfy audiences wherever they hit a stage.
Since forming in May of 1990, The Irish Descendants have embarked on an exciting musical journey. Taking the music passed on in family kitchens to the pubs of St John’s and stages of concert halls and major folk festivals across Canada and the United States. There is an unmatched pride among their fans in the music storytelling and accomplishments of this musical ensemble.
The Irish Descendant was the first band from their home province to sign a five-record deal with an international recording label and distributor Warner Music Canada. The band’s discography includes 14 studio recordings, with two certified Canadian Gold Albums, a Juno Award, along with 3 East Coast Music awards. The Irish Descendants are a band that has never failed to deliver their exciting brand of Newfoundland Irish Music to loyal fans.
In 1997, to mark the 500th anniversary of John Cabot’s 1497 arrival in the new world at Bonavista, The Irish Descendants had the honour to present their music to Queen Elizabeth. And in 1996 they were the opening act on a 26-stop National tour for the Queen of Canadian music Ann Murray. They have played to sold-out audiences at some of the biggest festivals throughout North America, for over three decades and continue to deliver new music with two studio albums in the works for 2023 and early 2024.
Their music appeals to all, the band was once described by a reviewer as being “Hasbro Age” 9-90, The Irish Descendants are now headed for forty years of presenting their songs and stories. It is plain to see The Irish Descendants have survived the test of time. Natural, honest, and not contrived or “made up”. The songs, the stories, and the proud accomplished musicians who stand before you are the real deal.
Tell us a bit about your most recent release.
We are currently working on a new Irish Descendants Christmas Album and will have another new Album out early in 2024
You’re playing Stan Rogers Folk Festival this year. Is this your first time playing at the festival? If so, have you ever attended?
No, it’s not our first time, It’s been several years since we played.
With a stellar, hugely-Canadian lineup, who are you excited to check out at the festival?
Too many to mention
For someone who has yet to see you perform live, describe your performance in 3 words.
Great storytelling, Engaging
On Saturday, July 22, there will also be a tribute to Gordon Lightfoot, so I have to ask, what is your favourite Gordon Lightfoot song?
Edmund Fitzgerald
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