Notes of an Irish Tenor

Irish singer Michael Londra, the voice of Riverdance on Broadway, Emmy® nominee and PBS performer, has taken the stories of his life, the lyrics of his songs, thoughts on Ireland and his adopted land, the US. He has made observations on his fans, reflections on his long road to success, the hard falls and the dizzy heights, to create "Notes of an Irish Tenor"

The book is an account of the milestones, markers and mistakes that brought him to now. It's a memoir on what happened and why, how it started, where it began and with who. Most of all it is a celebration of the people who are part of it all now, his fans.

To make the book extra special, Michael felt that there should be a Super Fan Chapter, where devoted fans write, in 200 words or less, a story telling their Michael Londra story, whether it be a song that comes to mind, a message of support and love or just an every day thought on what Michael's singing means in the quiet of the day.

  A limited number of books are now available for pre-order now with a December 15 delivery date. All pre order books will be personally autographed by Michael

"For years now, fans have asked about my life. During concerts, you hear my stories, fleeting glances into my life, during introductions to songs and my endless ramblings in a show. You get to know characters, scenes, dilemmas, wins and losses on the journey I have made, in my chit chat on stage. All too fast and disrespectfully thrown away in their brevity with all the best bits locked away, so you don't find out too much about me. The way I like it. 

 I've decided to change that, to give the story the respect it deserves, to give you the respect you deserve. Over the past months, I have been writing for you, my thoughts, my feelings, my story. Now, I can't call myself a writer. I mean, I learned how to write but not how to write! But, for all my concerns, my fans don't seem to care. I may not have the correct syntax ( as my partner continually reminds me!) but I can tell a tale. It is what my people do. It comes with my nationality, along with a healthy dose of realism, a frequent sense of irony and an overused liver. In truth, I have many stories. So many stories. 

Now in writing a book there are many ways to go about it. Do I aim for the stars to write a tome of literary masterpiece? Do I find a ghostwriter to cover up the fact that I can barely finish the alphabet? Look, I know it won't hit the New York Times best seller list like the high end stylings from, say, The Real Housewives or Gordon Ramsey, said the Irish tenor, with raised eyebrows. 

So the only way to go is to just lay it out for you, in an honest, basic, crawling but lovingly written way. The grammar won't win me prizes. It won't earn me reviews. Well it will, but not the kind I can use. It won't make me a writer. It will just make me honest and I want to be as honest as I can for I haven't been up to now. 

I will tell you about my family, my closest friends, my thoughts on the business, on all things Irish. it's culture, it's myths and for sure it's music. I've even thrown in my thoughts on Celtic Thunder. (I was there when it all started, you know)


In truth, I have realized only lately, just how special my relationship is with fans. I am touched every day by that connection. After years of not understanding or, being frank, not realising I had a connection, getting older has cut through the nonsense and revealed just what is important. The reason for my music. The reason for my singing. I know that when you listen to my voice, you listen to my story and probably dwell on your own. So, I guess, I hope the book does the same."

Before this book goes on sale in stores, we want to make it special for fans. We want to make it just for you so we are making the book available for pre-order along with a special previously unreleased song for download or on cd.

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 To pre-order the autographed book "Notes of an Irish Tenor" plus a download of a new song, click the link below

                                                

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To pre-order the autographed book "Notes of an Irish Tenor" plus an autographed cd of a new song, click the link below

                                                    

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As explained earlier, Michael wants to include fans in the book. This will make the book a special memento for you. You get to put your words in print as part of the SUPERFAN chapters of the book. You get to explain what Michael's songs mean to you. We give you 200 words and the choice of placing a 2" x 2" black and white photo in the book. Our team will help you with the passage and Michael will call you personally to chat about it. The best part is that these SUPERFANS then get to decide the final image for the front cover of the book in a private Ustream video chat with Michael himself. The image you currently see is from the book photoshoot held in Tucson a few months ago. Michael will leave it to you fans to pick your favorite.


 To be part of the Überfan chapters in "Notes of an Irish Tenor", help decide on the cover shot, get an autographed copy of the book and autographed cd, help from the book team plus a personal call from Michael in the coming weeks, click the link below

                                                    

"The fans are the heart of it all, the reason i have this wonderful experience, the reason I keep walking the road, the reason I keep singing. I'd love them to make this book complete, a celebration of our special relationship."

Celtic Thunder Cruise

Well, I am home after quite the wonderful week of cruising, boozing and absolutely no snoozing. I am completely and utterly exhausted. The week was a roller coaster of good times, touching moments, learning experiences and most of all, laughter.


I had no expectations on boarding the ship that brought us out to the Caribbean. Arriving in Miami to find a gorgeous suite in the Intercontinental waiting for me, I realised that Entertainment Cruise Professionals meant business. I was vaguely familiar with Carnival Cruises but really was not expecting too much from them. What I found on boarding surprised and delighted me.


The boat was dated, for sure but i was really surprised at how much i liked it. My very spacious suite with the lovely veranda was like something 1972 had brought as a gift complete with plastic couch which i am guessing is in case I had an incontinence issue. Still, i found the bed comfortable, the cabin very spacious with all mod cons. In fact, I grew to love the comfort and solace it gave me as I soon found out, no matter what time
of day you left that cocoon, you entered a mad and crazy kingdom, the land of the thunderhead!!!!!!!

Being honest, i was worried whether you thunderheads would enjoy my music as it is different from the guys. I know some of you have seen my as competition, in the past when it couldn't be further from the truth. We are all friends and we have nothing but regard for each other's success. Anyways, it worked it out and I felt nothing but the love from the minute i started singing.

A LOT of you asked me on board, if I would perform with Thunder or indeed eventually become a member of the show. That will simply not happen. While I admire the guy's talent and Sharon's skill as a manager, it is not for me. I like being a solo artist and I get to make my own decisions, follow my own path.

Back to the boat......My senses were overwhelmed walking around that boat on the first day. We had a deadline for rehearsal as we were on stage for 2 shows on that very first night. however, even the walk from my room to the theater was full with hellos, hugs, picture taking and general loveliness from fans.

The theater, was spectacular for the audience I thought. Full of color and great for access to the artist. I was amazed at the size of it, given we were on a boat. After a rather panicked rehearsal we got on with our first show. Frankly, we killed. I, despite the rather frenetic tech rehearsal and lack of prep time never sang better.  The band and dancers were on fire and we just enjoyed both performances from start to finish.



It was a treat for us to do stuff we have never sang before. I really enjoyed singing I Cant Make You Love Me and Tomorrow's Child.  We had a lot more new material ready but ran out of time as we had to get in 2 shows in one night. The reaction was immediate. The first audience lapped it up and we could not have been happier. 





Our second show, I figured would be another step up but i think the long day of boarding and waiting for pic with Celtic Thunder took it's toll on the punters. I could tell everyone was tired. I still knew though that you all had a wonderful time and we had found some new fans.

So, at the end of day one, we were done....and we had barely left port. I think the band and I were genuinely dissappointed that we didn't get to perform more but that is reality of cruise entertainment. There is only so much time.



The rest of my week involved filling my days with the gym to ward off the evils of the great food in the buffet. I have to say the food and service was spectacular. I loved dinner every night and the midnight pizza after a few beers was so welcome. The staff however, I thought were second to none. Amazing friendly service that I have rarely witnessed before.

My favorite thing was hanging out with my lovely band. They are just awesome to work with but we never get to just hang out.

Jamaica was a bit dodgy and not my cuppa tea at all. but I loved getting to spend the day in Cayman, especially given that we had lunchtime drinks in the rather gorgeous Ritz Carlton.

I loved the wine tasting on the last day as I got to have longer conversations with people and we got to talk about my favorite thing in the world, VINO!!!!!

Lastly I showed up for a Meet n Greet and autograph signing for an hour. It lasted 2 hours as so many showed up. I was thrilled getting to do photos, sign your cds and posters and just chat with fans who I've only met online. I still can't quite grasp what my music means to people so hearing stories of how my songs help people is so encouraging. Everyone was taken aback that I wanted to meet and talk to everyone. Why wouldn't I? You are the people who gave me this incredible life.

Thanks so much for all the incredible gifts you brought. I will be drinking Starbucks non stop!!!!!



My body was in complete shutdown after it all. I am a bit of a light weight so I was not able for the pace. I crawled off the boat and boarded the flight home for a few days before the madness of the Christmas dates begin.

Overall I would say that the whole experience was just wonderful. I got to hang out with friends, make new ones, perform for fans who have been so loyal to me and celebrate everything that music has brought to my life.

I hope to do another cruise as soon as possible. LOVED IT.

So now I am getting ready for some Christmas dates. Really looking forward to them. There is an extra date in Saint Louis area on December 8. You could go to the matinee of the lads ABC show and head over to my show that features other great Broadway artists. Details to follow.

Cerritos Center, Los Angeles Dec 06
St. Louis, Dec 08 Details TBA.
Foxwoods, CT Dec 10
SFSC Avon Park, FL Dec 16
Lakeland Center, FL Dec 17
Festival Hall, Greensboro, GA Dec 18

For all the new fans asking about my recordings, here are some links

For all info go to www.michaellondra.com

and one last thing PLEASE LIKE my official facebook page for new music and dates............
You are probably already friends with me but this page will give you the music you want to hear.

Nashville

Hey from Nashville

Just down in Nashville, my favorite place outside of Ireland for some meetings. Really I find excuses to come down for a few days. 

I've really very little to share with everyone. I am looking out across the Nashville skyline thinking how much my life has changed in the past year since arriving in this town. I feel so at home here, like I belong.  It is so nice to feel that crisp air. The first days of autumn that promises cold morning runs on the frosty road, sitting by the fire in the evening and the occasional slice of pumpkin pie, which if you know me at all, is what makes me happy.

I know you are wondering what I am up to, but honestly I have been pretty chilled lately. None of my friends can quite believe that I am not my usual hit the ground running self. I enjoyed a very lazy summer. I guess I was resting on my laurels after the Emmy® nominations. I've always thought of myself as a chaser, knocking down challenge after challenge with not many rewards. I just liked the fight. But when you get a commendation from your peers that tells you that you have reached a standard worthy of some acclaim, it is unnerving. You no longer are that person chasing a goal. You have achieved a goal. People said to me "ah, you won't be happy with a nomination, you will chase a win next time. This is simply not true in my case. It completely blew me away and changed my perceptions. It made me realise I am not running up the hill any more. I reached the top of the hil so now I am perfectly happy to lay out the lawn chair, open a Cab/Zin blend and chill the hell out.


So, where am I with plans. I know this makes you happy. I am doing some dates in the US through the winter and some European dates in 2014. I am singing in a few new projects for other artists. Check out Jewel's new Christmas album. I am producing a one man show for another singer which I am thrilled about. We starts rehearsals for that in October and will announce it soon enough. I like being behind the scenes and creating projects for others. I am also working on bringing someone over from Ireland to perform for you.....someone you know!!!

It won't be long for the Celtic Thunder Cruise. I am EXCITED!!! I get to hang out on a boat with my friends, perform a few times and maybe even relax....what?  The show I am putting together will be fun and unusual. New songs you wont have heard before plus old songs you know and love. I am all about the singing so you guys better be ready to sing. Now you will have heard I am doing another non singing event on board. I have no idea why you people just assumed it was a wine tasting. Really I have no idea why you would think that is what is happening. It's not like one of my best friend's Jean Clancy, general manager of Celtic Thunder and wine bar owner is on board or anything. It's not like we both are obsessed with wine and she is an expert or anything. Anyway, I cannot confirm or deny we are doing a wine tasting event on board.

By now you will have heard about the event on November 01, the eve of the sailing, in FADO, Miami. I will be there for sure and will sing a song or two, just to get you all in the mood for a week of festivities.

Fado, Miami

Theater on board the Victory

                                                                                                                                                                
 
So I am off into my management's office. By the way, my manager is Robert Williams. He and his team in the office are brilliant, hard working and funny as hell. We laugh all day when we work together. It isn't work at all to us. Check them out; http://wbaentertainment.com/

FYI The new High Kings album is almost out here in the US.  I am a big fan and I love the sound of this albu,. I know you will enjoy it. Check it out Friends for Life


Confirmed Dates (more to follow)

Nov 02 Celtic Thunder Cruise
Dec 06 Cerritos Center, Los Angeles
Dec 10 Foxwoods, CT
Dec 16 Avon Park, FL
Dec 17 Lakeland Center, FL
Dec 18 Greensboro, GA
Mar 04 Green Valley, AZ
Mar 07 Jupiter, FL
Mar 13 Fort Pierce, FL
Mar 14 Orange Park, FL
Mar 15 Skokie, IL
Mar 17 Cedar Rapids, IA

JFK

Hello from Wexford

Well that was quite the week. I am sitting at home in my parents house, enjoying some peace and quiet after the a stellar but exhausting week of travel and performances. Looking back, it is all a bit of a blur. I can't quite slow at all down yet but luckily I have the photos and film to keep the memories forever.

It started with a quiet celebration as I never really acknowledged the 2 Emmy® Nominations. We didn't win but I didn't give a hoot. I feel like I have reached a standard that I have wanted to reach my whole life. I dont get the statue but for the rest of my days I will be known as Emmy® nominated singer, Michael Londra. How amazing is that!!!!  My friends and I had some champagne and talked about the road getting there. It was the start of a special 7 days.

Anthony Kearns and I with the Irish color party

I headed out on the road a week ago. First stop was Washington D.C. I had a hugely early morning as the ceremony at the grave of President Kennedy was at 10.30am and I needed to sound like my voice was somewhat awake. We all arrived with plenty of time to spare. The forecast was mixed but luckily I was wary and got a brolly to take with me. As soon as we arrived, the heavens opened so I opened up the Dupont Circle Hotel umbrella and breathed a sigh of relief. The rain subsided but was followed by 100% humidity which for some reason I managed to keep at bay during the ceremony. More about that in a while.

Carrying the Emigrant Flame

The whole service was dignified, calm, prayerful and quite perfect. The lighting of the torch being transported to Ireland was involved but meticulously organised by the Irish team from New Ross. I sang the Irish National Anthem. Let me say that while I am totally comfortable singing this piece, I was overwhelmed by the formality, by my business attire, by the Kennedys and the heat / humidity really did a number on me. I am not built for it. I didn't do a great job but for some reason, it didn't seem to matter. I was so proud to be from Wexford and to be there to honor a Wexford man who has a column in world history. Another Wexford man Anthony Kearns followed with the US anthem. Anthony is on of the Irish Tenors. His voice is thunderous, classical and at it's core, Irish. He sang beautifully. We make a great team.

Once the service was over we all returned to the Irish Ambassador's residence for a quiet celebration and some songs. I sang How Are Things in Glocca Morra as it was one of JFK's favorites. I followed it with an acapella version of Song for John. The whole party joined me in a rendition of The Boys of Wexford. Once we finished that, I could relax so I enjoyed a quiet pint of Guinness with friends.

Up the next morning at 5am to get a flight to New York and on to Ireland. I was truly exhausted at this point. I had no sleep at all really and once i landed I knew I had to face the mammoth weekend of festivities. I landed in Dublin, a wreck of a man but once I got home, it dissappeared. I was ready for anything the few days would throw at me.

On Friday night there was a celebration dinner which was a glimpse of the following day's festivities. I got to hear Judy Collins sing some of her greatest songs. We were introduced for the first time then. Time stood still when I stared into her azure blue eyes. I never say anything like them. Hypnotic. I told her how much I loved her song "In the Twilight" which seemed to catch her unawares. She started crying which in turn set me off. We had a magic few moments talking about how special the song was.

I got home early so I would be ready for the big concert on Saturday. I drove up with my sister Majella who shared the day with me along with my parents and manager visiting from Nashville. I warmed up and gradually the VIPS arrived. I however met noone before the show. Judy went on first. All I can say was that she was stunning. Her tone is clear as a ringing bell as she hit notes in the stratosphere.

I was up next. I walked onstage looking out at the ominous clouds which I thought were about to unload on us all. The rain stayed away as it turned out. I looked to the first row and Caroline waved at me as I waited for the TV crew getting ready. I waved back as if to say "Hey, Caroline - What Up?"

Beside her Jean Kennedy Smith gave me a regal nod. Class Act! Then....I looked directly behind them to the second row. There among the Kennedy clan was my mother, father, sister, manager and wife. How that happened I don't know to this day but they managed somehow to be placed in the middle of the one of the most powerful families in the world. Later I saw just how close when all my sister's photos had the back of Caroline's head blocking her. Every TV shot featured my father or sister.....or my mother leaning over to wave to family back in Wexford town. HILARIOUS!

Mam (chanelling Jackie O) and Dad arrive with VIPS

I sang Danny Boy with my lovely pianist Eithne. A singer knows when they have done a good job. I knew it couldn't have been more perfect so when we finished, I was delighted. On to Song for John which I was a bit nervous about. It turned out to be perfect. I ran off to meet Caroline and Jean for real whoch couldn't have been sweeter. I also got to chat to Kathleen Kennedy Townsend who I am a huge fan of. She was gushing me with praise which was a little awkward for me but a thrill.

I walked side-stage. Judy Collins walked up to me. She placed her delicate hands around my face and whispered at me " your voice is golden. When are recording my song? It is perfect for you". My heart stopped. It was the most magical moment ever.  I then got to walk back on stage with her and sing Amazing Grace with a legend.

My family with An Taoiseach (primeminister of Ireland) Enda Kenny

 I was on a high for the rest of the day but I couldn't celebrate as I had more events the following day. Once I finished those however I sneaked out of the formalities on my own and waalked up to my local pub Simon's Place. The pub was fairly empty. I sat up at the bar and had the most satisfying pint of stout ever. It was the perfect half hour sitting there recalling one of the most times of my entire life.

So now I am spending a week at home with my family in Wexford. I need the rest to be honest. I head to London next week as the lovely people at Shapiro Bernstein are sending me over to write with some brilliant writers including Bruce Wooley who has written so many hits from Video Killed the Radio Star to Slave to the Rhythm, Chris Elliot who wrote Moulin Rouge soundtrack and arranged Adele's last album. I also get to write with Matteo Saghese who wrote Magia Sara which I recorded a few years ago. I hope he didn't think my Italian sucked...which it did.

I head back to the US then to get ready for my big concert on Boston Common on July 19. Have I mentioned it is free and they are expecting 25,000.............. so be early!!!

When I left for America, JFK was front and center in my mind. He represented the American Dream to me. I have gotten to live that dream. This week I was able to thank him, honor him, sing for him.


It was perfect.

ML xo

Nashville Bound

Hi Everyone

Big hello from a sunny Chicago. So good to be back in my place even if it was only for a few days. After a really great holiday in Ireland (and Montenegro) I am back in business.

This week involved planning the next few weeks which is a hop, skip and a jump across the US for several different events. Lots of planning involved. Honestly i should open a travel agency. Everyone thinks I have "people" to handle all that stuff and while I have management, I would rather organise everything myself. I like to know what flights, what seats on what airline, what hotel room etc. YES, I am a self proclaimed control freak.

This week also involved getting the word out on Daniel Furlong's autographed album set which proved to be hugely popular. I knew they would be. I simply could not believe that noone in North America could purchase the hard copy. Over the coming months we will make it available on Amazon and in retail for people.

I am off to Nashville tomorrow for a week of writing. Writing makes me happier than performing. I love the process of being in the studio, writing and recording as we make progress, especially if it gets me to work with heroes of mine. I cannot believe who I am meeting this coming month. Shapiro Bernstein have set up appointments with major writers through June. Some names literally left me speechless. This week alone, I get to write with Ralph Murphy and Pat Alger. I couldnt believe when i saw Pat's name. I first started singing his songs 20 years ago. One of his is "Once in a very Blue Moon" with Nanci Griffith and recorded by Mary Black. Anyone who knows me will know the song was my party piece for many years. He also wrote What She's Doin Now, Unanswered Prayers, The Thunder Rolls with Garth Brooks. I ABSOLUTELY LOVE Garth's songs and those albums in the early 90's were monsters. I remember my mate Greg and I singing them all the time. He has written and performed with Dolly, Peter , Paul and Mary, Lyle Lovett, Kathy Mattea(Goin Gone - another big favorite of mine), Trisha Yearwood. The list is endless....and now I get to work with him. I am BLESSED!

I also get to work with Bill La Bounty who wrote and performed Livin It Up.
I love his sound and want to sing his music. By Monday evening I hope to be doing just that.
Don't mind sayin, I am terrified. Hopefully, I will come up with some ideas and not make a fool of myself in front of these guys. Will keep you informed. In the meantime, I plan on enjoying the vibe in Nashville. I love it there. So laid back and easy. My plan this year was not to sweat the small stuff and it is indeed working. I am really enjoying myself. I delayed the second PBS special for that very reason. It is just time for me to take some time for myself and slow down a bit.

I am off to sing in Los Angeles for a private event on June 9 and then I return to Ireland on June 13 for another event. I will fill you in when the details are announced. I THEN, hop back on a plane and head back to Nashville for more writing(with more legends) and the June 25 concert with Vince Gill, Melinda Dolittle, Mandiza and many more.

Sorry for not posting the winter tour dates yet. They are coming together but we want to complete the tour schedule before posting them. Some resourceful fans have been combing the internet to find thaters that have posted dates. One fan let me know a date before i knew about it! YUP! Anyways, I am off to enjoy the sunshine and am heading out for a run by the lake. Bye for now, next update from NASHVILLE.

Spring has Sprung

Before you attack me, let me just say that the Celtic spring officially began yesterday, February 1, the feast of St Brigid. Oddly enough here in Chicago it seems to match that with unseasonably warm days all week. Now when I say warm, I mean it is above 35F which is kind of unusual for Chitown.

January was split in 2 halves for me. After the very fun time in San Francisco, I didnt get to go home but headed straight to Nashville to meet with potential new management. I think I might have found someone and there is now ongoing discussion to set it in stone. It will be nice to have someone take the wheel from me for a while as the past year has been absolutely crazy wearing the hat of producer, manager, travel agent, tour manager...oh and singer. We had 20 people in San Francisco so that was multitasking at it's limit. It all worked out fine but it will be nice to have someone letting me know when I am losing the plot.

I got to hang out in Nashville for a few days and have to say it is now up in my top 5 places to visit. Have to say, I would live there in a heartbeat. Easy going but upscale. Conservative but liberal at the same time. Got to hang out with my favorite Irish Music Magazine journalist/ novelist Helene Dunbar who gave me all the inside scoop on the town.

I then headed to NYC for APAP to make some new plans with my agent and indeed plot out the next year. In talking I admitted that this year needed to be a lot slower. I was running myself to the ground and it was starting to show. I am no spring chicken and while I will always be a wayfarer, I would rather do it at a slower pace so that is the plan.

I met the bold Joannie Madden of Cherish The Ladies in New York. It was a tonic to see her. She makes me laugh and inspires me. Her work ethic and talent is unending. Her new album Country Crossroads is just fantastic with amazing duets with Vince Gill, Maura O Connell and Nancy Griffith. Hey Joanie, when do I get to sing with you.




While I was in town, I headed to the studio and recorded quite a lot of new music. While it is not finished, there is the bones of a new album there and I can't for you to hear some of the new songs.

AMAZING SHOTS OF WEXFORD

I arrived home to my house after 2 months away. On January 25, I opened all the Christmas cards and gifts that everyone sent. I know that is just ridiculous but that is my life, people! It was such a treat to go through all of them, realising the amount of thought that went into everything. I have to admit that a lot of fans know me very well. I guess, I talk too much. Please know that I spent a long time going through everyone's kind messages and gifts and they mean the world to me. You know who you are!

Well, I was thrilled to get the news on January 28th that I had won the Best Irish Tenor Category in the Irish Music Association Awards. I never in my life expected to be nominated for such an award , let alone , win, especially looking at past winners like Tommy Fleming 2011 and Anthony Kearns 2010

For anyone who didn't know here is a summary and a list of a few winners
Feb. 3, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- As we speed toward that metamorphic holiday in March where the whole world turns green and becomes Irish, St Patrick's Day, the Irish Music Association has released a new list of the Best in Irish Music, creating new international icons in the genre. Last weekend, on Saturday, January 28, 2012, during the 4th Annual Irish Music Award Presentation ceremony, the IMA recognized outstanding Irish artists, celebrating not only that which is traditionally Irish, but also appreciating more eclectic sounds," IMA Executive Director R. T. Reeder said. "This year's nominations include some of the Irish music industry's most famous artists and performing groups."

Award Winners include:

Tommy Makem Award - Enya
Top Traditional Performance Show - Celtic Woman
Top Harpist - Orla Fallon
Best Female Vocalist - Lisa Kelly / Celtic Woman
Top Solo Performer in Concert - Ryan Kelly / Celtic Thunder
Best Group - The High Kings
aaaand
Best Irish Tenor - Michael Londra

I will be sending the award home to my mother who will polish it and keep it shining on the mantle!

So next week, we start some tour dates, beginning close to home with a date in The Paramount Theater in Aurora on Feb 10th. Really i am just excited to see my lovely band and dancers. They mean the world to me and I know they love being on the road together There is always an adventure.

There is an extra few dates over the next month that I am thrilled about. I get to perform about 3 blocks from my house at Chicago Symphony Center for Siamsa Na nGael, a huge event featuring an orchestra, choir, amazing singers like Rod Dixon, Alfreda Burke, Catherine O Connell and myself. I have been given gorgeous music to perform so it should be a lot of fun although it means flying in from Bergen date the day before and on to Spokane the day after. That is what Irish performers call March Madness!

On February 26th, I join the awesome Kathleen Keane

in the American Irish Heritage Center here in Chicago for a night called The Keane Machine. Kathleen is a great friend who you will see on Michael Londra dates through the year. She plays whistle, fiddle and is a great irish dancer. Anyways, she is bringing a load of great musicians and singers together for a night to fundraise for the Heritage Center and I am looking forward to a few scoops after the show.

I am heading to the Bing Crosby Theater in Spokane on March 14th. I will have lots of locals onstage including An Dochas and the Haran Dancers. I love Spokane. The town has a heart and the people up there are just great. A lot of my band and dancers over the years have been Washingtonians. We head on to Wenatchee Toyota Center on March 15th which is a different gig completely as we are playing to an Arena but either way it will be a fun night out. Tickets for both events only go on sale this week.

I was chatting to Paul Byrom the other day. We had the best chat. It is great to connect with someone who totally understands the job and what is involved. We had a lot of laughs, threw advice at each other and were glad to exchange ideas, tips, concerns etc. He is such a good guy and a wonderful singer. I admire his talent, drive and he deserves every success. Fortunately, our chat was over the phone or it would have involved many glasses of wine!!! One of these days we will have sing together.

Good luck to the Celtic Thunder boys heading off this week(not that they need it). I am dead jealous as I always wanted to do a full tour down there. I hope to make it happen someday. For now, there are too many dates to do here. I don't say this lightly but I think Emmet may be the best young singer to come out of Ireland in years. His voice is clear as a bell. I am excited to hear Keith's album. He is hugely talented writer and the nicest fella. He deserves the success. Mr. Foster is a lucky man.

The Celtic Woman tour started last night in Nashville. I saw the new Believe show on PBS and was blown away. David Downes and the girls know how to stage a show. What a spectacle! They will miss Lisa on the tour though.

I have been due a trip home for ages and I keep delaying it as my life is so complicated now. I can almost taste the Guinness so it wont be long now. I am going to do this stretch of dates and head to Wexford.

San Francisco

Hey....I am flying...for a change


Well San Francisco was everything I wanted it to be....and some more.


Arriving there puts in me a good mood. The town has the feel of Europe....with an American accent. I love the predictable fog and the hills. I love the houses sloped against the right angle roads. I love that 30 minutes walking replaces cardio in the gym.. I love that I can taste every nations food in a 5 minute walk. I like hearing the gulls remind me of home. Now I have a new love....well, an old love.

AT&T Park, despite the corporate name is a wonder. An arena full of the American dream. I guess I had no idea how many people would be there. Sold out the sign read as I arrived to sing the National Anthem for the Giants / Astros games. I then read that all 64 games this season sold out. With the average ticket at $100 and 42,000 seats sold, someone is making a lot of money.

The publicist for my shows in San Francisco and his partner met me at the corporate entrance and we were escorted into the bowels of the building only to surface right behind home plate. I was awestruck and immediately fell in love. The atmosphere was buzzing. The Giants had won the night before and you could feel it. Optimism everywhere. So I waited to walk onto the diamond. I was in no way nervous. It felt like I was about to get on a fairground ride. I was escorted to the microphone and after a short introduction began singing. I started in a key lower than I was used to and as soon as I finished the first sentence and began the second, I heard the first sentence coming back at me in a strange auditory backslap. It was hugely disconcerting but I sang through it and indeed reached the end without messing up the words(nod to Christina Aguilera) or hitting a bum note(hat tip to Rosanne Barr). The song is difficult but if you approach it's simplicity and offer no theatrics , it all becomes easier. I don't think the song should be performed....just honored.

As the roar went up toward the last sentence I felt that instant in slow motion. All at once I was on that plane 20 years ago when I first arrived in the US. I had no idea then that I would make a small mark, my mark. There, on Saturday at a ball game, I realised that I have achieved what I set out to do all those years ago. I am fulfilled and happy. I have made myself a part of the US. At the same time, I am making people wonder where I come from, who my parents are and wonder whether they will ever get to Ireland.I indeed am part of two worlds.

The Giants people asked me with little notice to sing the 7th inning stretch. I said I would be happy to but then quietly asked "what is the 7th inning stretch". I was then sent a clip of Take Me out to the Ballgame". I was led up to where the videotron is at the park and there, with the backing of a 40,000 piece choir, I sang the song....well it isn't a song you sing, as roar in a bawdy singsong kind of way. I finished and the walk to the exit was filled with fathers and son's, kids, frat guys and grandmothers giving me backslaps, high fives,hugs and photo ops. I felt the love and the respect. People were grateful I came along. "hey Irish, you sang good"!

I got a car home to my hotel and decided I should celebrate by heading to the rooftop bar overlooking the city. I ordered a lovely red zin from Lodi, not far from the city. Savoring the vino and the moment I looked across the city. The fog had settled in and it still looked stunning.

My calm was ruined by a group of young professionals. I realised they had been at the Ann Coulter appearance in the theater nearby. They began talking about her and I heard that they idolised her. They had drank the coolaid that even Ann Coulter doesn't drink, even though she makes it. I have never heard such hatred disguised as humor and the fact that it came from seemingly educated go getters made it all the more horrific. There was jokes and put downs about people with AIDS, about muslims, about President Obama....it was endless. I couldn't take anymore. I left the bar and as I was going , one of the loud women of the group said to me "Hey handsome, did we make you move...sorry about the noise!" She laughed and I replied "it wasn't the noise or your politics, it was the vitriol". I left.

On Sunday I boarded the on/off bus. I saw The Presidio, Golden Gate Park, Nob Hill, The Castro, Haight Ashbury, Alcatraz, The Bay. It was a day off to savor. I loved it from start to finish. I have said it before - If only San Francisco wasn't so far West. I want to live there.

I will be back to perform Dec 12 - Jan 2. Tickets are available NOW

Home for 10 days and then back to the West Coast for Live Pledges in Seattle KCTS 9 Sept 12 and San Bernardino KVCR Sept 13

Its finally here!

Hey Everyone

Well it is all getting a little frenetic in Camp Beyond Celtic this week as we start to promo for Michael Londra Beyond Celtic on PBS. Pledges start next week nationwide and with that begins the journey to many of those local stations. My first stop is NYC to view the show with friends on WNET New York / New Jersey on Sunday August 7 at 4.30pm Planning a mini viewing party in a wine bar. I am not planning on watching it but will be meeting everyone there once they've watched it. I can't look at my own shows. Anyways, it will be fun to see my friends and watch their reactions to it.

I then fly to San Francisco to do my first pledges on August 11 and on to Baltimore on Aug 13 . There will be lots of exciting news that week including details of a contest for choirs to perform with me and the first tickets available for our December tour and the Beyond Celtic tour beginning in Feb 2012.

So this weekend we had the best time in Ohio. I was invited by the Lancaster Festival to come perform with the Symphony. Naturally I brought a great band including Bodhran player Jackie Moran, the brilliant Kathleen Keane on fiddle and whistle plus the boys of An Dochas and a group of dancers lead by Riverdance lead, Joe Moriarty. The symphony was stunning and I felt like I was cradled in the arms of angels while performing with such a huge orchestra, not forgetting my 4000 or so backing singers in the audience. Althoguh I am completely wrecked after an exhausting weekend's work I have to say that it a magical night. Livin the dream! Photos from the Performance

So I have recently partnered with the Visit Wexford campaign to be rolled out over the coming year. Historically Wexford, an amazing part of Ireland seen as THE vacation destination for the Irish has been overlooked by international tourists. There is so much to offer visitors to Wexford from its beaches to it's viking origins, from it's Opera Festival to Dunbrody Famine Ship, from the Irish National Heritage Park to Johnstown Castle. It's a happening part of Ireland with a huge focus on the arts. In every blog from now on I will highlight a wonderful event,locale or festival from my area that I know will intrigue people worldwide.

Sorry we havent given you details of the 2012 Beyond Celtic tour yet but are we adding dates so fast. Soon...I promise. I can say we added The Grove in Anaheim and Symphony Hall in Baltimore.

Right...here are some airings nationally for you. It is nowhere near the final list so don't complain if your city isn't on there.As I get more details I will add airings accordingly. Please spread the word for me.

New York/New Jersey
WNET 8/7/11 4:30 PM

New York / Long Island
WLIW 8/27/11 4:30 PM

San Francisco
KQED 8/11/11 7:30 PM LIVE
KQED
8/11/11 7:30 PM
8/12/11 1:30 AM
8/14/11 5:30 PM
8/15/11 10:30 PM
8/16/11 4:30 AM
8/16/11 1:00 PM
8/18/11 10:30 PM
8/19/11 4:30 AM
8/8/11 7:00 PM
8/11/11 7:30 PM
8/12/11 1:30 AM
8/14/11 5:30 PM
8/15/11 10:30 PM
8/16/11 4:30 AM
8/18/11 10:30 PM
8/19/11 4:30 AM
8/11/11 7:30 PM
8/12/11 1:30 AM
8/14/11 5:30 PM
8/15/11 10:30 PM
8/16/11 4:30 AM
8/16/11 1:00 PM
8/18/11 10:30 PM
8/19/11 4:30 AM
8/11/11 7:30 PM
8/12/11 1:30 AM
8/14/11 5:30 PM
8/15/11 10:30 PM
8/16/11 4:30 AM
8/18/11 10:30 PM
8/19/11 4:30 AM

Maryland
MPT 8/13/11 LIVE

South Carolina
SCETV 8/24/11 Live

Gainsville North Central Florida
WUFT 8/19/11 8:00 PM

Detroit
WTVSDT 6/16/11 9:30 PM

Washington State and British Columbia
KCTS 9/12/11 TBD

Spokane
KSPS 9/13, 7 PM
WSPS 9/15/11 8:30 PM

Pittsburgh
WQED 8/11/11 7:30 PM
WQED 8/12/11 1:30 AM
WQED 8/14/11 5:30 PM
WQED 8/15/11 10:30 PM
WQED 8/16/11 4:30 AM
WQED 8/16/11 1:00 PM
WCETDT 8/7/11 10:00 PM

Cincinnatti
WPTODT5 8/6/11 6:30 PM
WPTODT 8/6/11 6:30 PM

Tampa, St. Petersburg, Sarasota
WUSF
8/17/11 3:00 PM
8/7/11 3:00 PM
8/9/11 2:00 AM
8/10/11 2:00 AM
8/6/11 11:30 AM
8/18/11 10:30 AM

Philadelphia
WHYY 8/7/11 10.30pm

Mississippi / Alabama
WMABDT 8/20/11 11:00 PM

Washington DC
WFPT 8/13/11 6:00 PM
WFPT 8/14/11 1:00 PM

Boston

WGBH
8/14/11 1:30 AM
8/19/11 1:00 AM

Chicago
Lakeshore 8/27/11 12:30 AM

AUGUSTA
WEBA 8/25/11 8:00 PM

Arizona
EIGHT ARIZONA PBS
8/8/11 8.30pm
8/8/11 11.30pm

Nashville
WNPT
8/7/11 5:30 PM
8/9/11 10:00 PM
8/14/11 1:30 PM

Myrtle Beach
WHMC 8/25/11 8:00 PM

Charlotte
WITVDT 8/25/11 8:00 PM
WITVDT 8/28/11 1:00 PM
WITVDT2 8/27/11 10:00 AM
WITVDT2 8/28/11 10:00 AM


New Orleans
WYESDT 8/14/11 2:00 PM
WYESDT 8/14/11 11:00 PM


Gainsville
WUFTDT 8/15/11 10:00 PM
8/19/11 8:00 PM

West Palm Beach
WXEL 8/13/11 7pm

Jacksonville
WJCT 8/14/11 2pm

Fort Myers
WGCU 8/14/11 5pm

Fresno
Valley Public TV 8/20/11 6pm

Chattanooga
WTCI 8/14/11 4.30pm

Quad Cities
WQPT
8/7/11 9.30pm
8/8/11 4.30pm

Monterey / Salinas / Santa Cruz
KQET
8/11/11 7:30 PM
8/12/11 1:30 AM
8/14/11 5:30 PM

Amarillo
KENW 8/10/11 7pm

Rhode Island
WSBE TBD

WETPDT
8/6/11 10:00 PM
8/12/11 8:30 PM


Knoxville
WKOPDT 8/6/11 10:00PM

New Mexico
KNME 8/14/11 7:00PM


Tennessee Valley
WTCIDT 8/14/11 4:30 PM


South Bend/ Michigan/Indiana
WNIT 8/7/11 4:00 PM

Richmond
WCVE 8/11/11 8pm

Salisbury
WDPB 8/7/11 10.30pm

Duluth/Superior
WDSEDT 8/14/11 8:30 PM
WRPTDT 8/14/11 8:30 PM

Columbia, MO
KMOSDT 8/11/11 12:00 AM


West Texas / New Mexico
KRWGDT 8/14/11 3:00 PM
KRWGDT2 8/14/11 3:00 PM

Dakotas
KFMEDT 8/11/11 9:00 PM
KFMEDT 8/13/11 3:00 AM

Cleveland/Akron/Canton, Ohio
Western Reserve Public Media 8/15/11 9.30pm

Dakotas
KJREDT 8/11/11 9:00 PM
KJREDT 8/13/11 3:00 AM

Dakotas
KCGEDT 8/11/11 9:00 PM
KCGEDT 8/13/11 3:00 AM
KCGEDT2 8/11/11 9:00 PM
KCGEDT2 8/13/11 3:00 AM
KFMEDT2 8/11/11 9:00 PM
KFMEDT2 8/13/11 3:00 AM
KJREDT2 8/11/11 9:00 PM
KJREDT2 8/13/11 3:00 AM
KMDEDT 8/11/11 9:00 PM
KMDEDT 8/13/11 3:00 AM
KMDEDT2 8/11/11 9:00 PM
KMDEDT2 8/13/11 3:00 AM
KMOSDT 8/11/11 12:00 AM
KBMEDT 8/11/11 9:00 PM
KBMEDT 8/13/11 3:00 AM
KDSEDT 8/11/11 9:00 PM
KDSEDT 8/13/11 3:00 AM
KSREDT 8/11/11 9:00 PM
KSREDT 8/13/11 3:00 AM
KWSEDT 8/11/11 9:00 PM
KWSEDT 8/13/11 3:00 AM
KBMEDT2 8/11/11 9:00 PM
KBMEDT2 8/13/11 3:00 AM


Kansas State
KDSEDT2 8/11/11 9:00 PM
KDSEDT2 8/13/11 3:00 AM
KSREDT2 8/11/11 9:00 PM
KSREDT2 8/13/11 3:00 AM
KWSEDT2 8/11/11 9:00 PM
KWSEDT2 8/13/11 3:00 AM


West Tenessee
WLJTDT3 8/9/11 7:00 PM

Jackson
WLJTDT3 8/9/11 7:00 PM
WLJTDT3 8/14/11 5:00 PM

not your average week

Hi Everyone


Today is a good day. It's lunchtime on Sunday June 19.

I was out last night on the Southside of Chicago at the Beverly Arts Center. My friends were performing down there so I went along and had the best time. Hung out with Jimmy Keane(best accordian on the planet) Sean Cleland, Jackie Moran(who will join me in Lancaster to play bodhran at performance on July 23. Met Brian Cunningham who presented his new show Atlantic Steps. He is a sean nos dancer with enthusiasm out the wazoo. I had a great time indeed ending with a few pints. Lovely.

So I went Detroit on Thursday to film the pledge breaks to air nationally thru August. It was overwhelming, fun and scary. I arrived after a short flight to find my super agent Adrienne Crane Ross, Maya Fiallos from International Media and the team from my new record company Razor and Tie

Everyone worked on making the taping go well. The lovely team at Detroit Public TV made me feel very welcome and the taping went well....i think.

ON the subject of Razor and Tie, I couldn't be happier to be working with this company. I've admired their business model for many years and always wanted to work with them'It is amazing to be on a roster with people like Joan Baez, Vanessa Carlton, Dave Stewart aaaaand wait for it...Kidzbop! They have exciting plans for the album and dvd. REtail release is not announced yet and the Beyond Celtic cd and dvd will be available exclusively on PBS for the next few months.

We are planning the national pbs station visits for August. I will see a lot of the US in August. So far we have San Bernardino, Seattle, San Fran, Maryland, Atlanta, and South Carolina, as well as most likely Lehigh Valley and Pittsburg. We have many more and will get details out to you asap.

It's early days so far but as for airings, here are a few stations locked in.

Seattle www.kcts9.org
Maryland www.mpt.org/
South Dakota: www.sdpb.org
Milwaukee www.mptv.org
San Francisco www.kqed.org
Atlanta www.pba.org
Baltimore www.mpt.org
San Bernardino www.kvcr.org

Plenty more to follow.............

Most exciting news of the year so far is I am heading to Ireland tomorrow. Lots going on but the best thing is that it is my mom's 70th birthday on Tuesday. I arrive at home on Tuesday morning so it will be a fun day.

On Thursday I head to a posh event in Dublin to celebrate the launch of the Wexford Ambassadors strategy to develop interest in all things Wexford. Hosted by my long time friend Brendan Howlin, the Minister of Public Expenditure, the event will celebrate all things Wexford and honor the first of Wexford's ambassadors Colm Toibin, Kevin Doyle, Gordon Darcy and my friend Eoin Colfer. I am looking forward to spending time with old friends and a posh night out in Dublin.

On Friday I have 2 events:

1. I am a guest for Gossip Girls I am a bit afraid to be surrounded by women armed with questions about my opinions on everything and lots of cocktails. A few of those women know my darkest secrets so I am afraid....very afraid.

2. Once the talk show is done we head across town to attend the event of the year...my mother's 70th Birthday party. I cannot wait to see all the family together and lots of moms friends from over the years.

We are building the tour for late 2011 and on into 2012. We have about 50 dates so far which is astounding. Details on the tour dates, lots of which will be available for sale on PBS over the coming months. We will post those dates asap.

Big love to everyone

M

5 weeks to go

So I am back home in Chicago after a month of running around the country and a quick trip back to Ireland to say hello for a few days as I haven't a hope of getting home now until June at least.
I was in LA finalising the PBS show and what a show it will be. The exciting news is that the city of San Bernardino is building a 2 day Irish Festival around the theater on the day before the taping(st paddys day) and the day of the show itself. They will have parades, a spirit of Ireland contest, a Danny Boy singing contest, Irish bands, pipers and bands. Should be fun and hopefully we will get some of those fun people dressed up in their green regalia to come in to the show.
I was in the studio last week getting new songs recorded to have for the album accompanying the PBS show.We have some new crossover classical numbers, new covers and really cool opening song involving me and my dancers from Celtic Fire.
The orchestra seems to be getting bigger everytime I turn around but we need a big sound. We will have about 22 I think so that should sound really nice. AT the piano will be my MD and producer Steve Skinner. At the baton conducting will be my touring pianist and keys player Peter Storms. I've asked a few of my singing friends to be part of my backing vocalists(he said thinking of the party after!)
I had some meetings last week to plan the release of the album and have come to an agreement with a top Entertainment Company TBA. ONCE I SIGN, you will be the first to know. We certainly have some exciting plans to keep me busy.
So I was delighted to get an offer of 18 dates at the Marines Memorial Theater in downtown San Francisco in December. It means spending the holidays in sunny California but I am cool with that. Working again in Union Square district is certainly an exciting prospect. The theater holds about 700 and we have 18 nights to fill the place so I will be heading out a lot this year to promote. Again....I have no problems with promoting in San Francisco. I already have a list of restaurants I want to go to, not to mention my old haunt Casey's from my Riverdance days!!!!
I have been blessed this year so far. Everything seems to be falling into place for the special. I have the best team working on it. We had our first production meeting about 2 weeks ago and meeting everyone at the theater was ....overwhelming. I was speechless when I walked in to the beautiful space and seeing all the creatives turn to say hello. I was praying noone would ask my opinion as I felt completely overwhelmed that all these tv professionals were there for me. I turned into an awkward 12 year old afraid to talk. It came out alright. My agent and the producers kept it all moving and I just pretended I knew what everyone was talking about.
The theater is so beautiful. Showtime use it a lot for their stand up comedy specials.
I cannot wait for you to hear the new ballad I co-wrote called All My Life. It is the best thing we have put down in the studio I believe. We have a new opening song called Brand New World involving the dancers.We have also decided to add a song recorded by one of my major influences, Mary Black. It is not an obvious song choice for me but we wanted to spice it up a bit and this came to mind. I've also blended 2 songs from the 40s to add a touch of class...call it a classic mash up, if you will.....
I will perform one song with De Dannan and another with Sephira.
Still trying to figure out what to wear but dont worry, it wont be a kilt. We are talking suit....i think.
So 5 weeks to go.....and much to do......more news very soon!
M

China

So I just got back from China. Beijing is polluted beyond belief and anytime you raise this with Beijingers, they reply that it is fog which is funny. I like the town. It is stately in places, crazy and frenetic in others. I stayed in the cool Sanlitun area so safe to say I had a Starbucks on my doorstep. I did eat pretty amazing food including exotic dishes like Ox Tendon....interesting. I had Peking Duck with the addition of Goose. Have to say it was delicious. I may or may not have sampled Beijing nightlife including a funny speakeasy at the Workers Stadium. The trip was a big success now I am suffering the worst jetlag ever.
Recommendation for hotel http://www.theoppositehouse.com/

SO now begins the holiday tour which as usual should be great fun. Sad to say my trusted friend and guitarist Mellad wont be with us as his wife is having a baby. I do want to let you know that the lovely Caitlin Warbelow will be out with us on this tour. She is fun and brilliant on the fiddle, http://www.myspace.com/caityanna/blog/495758035
Preperation is underway for the PBS special to be recorded in San Bernardinos California Theater on March 18. We will be running a contest for free tickets to the taping in the New Year. I am delighted to say our first guest artist will be Frankie Gavin and De Dannan. I love trad and these are just the best there is. Frankie is a legend and I am honored to have them on board. We have one more exciting guest to announce but that wont happen until the New Year.

We go into the studio this week to record new material for the album to accompany the PBS dvd. So excited to get the earphones on and start singing. I love being in a studio as much as being on stage , if not more. We have a greatv new original song to record and much more.

Just when I thought I would focus on being a producer along came a chance to sing some more so the decision was made for me. I am excited about 2011 and in this week of thanksgiving, I am so grateful that I have this gift which allows me to do amazing things around the world.

Thanks for all your lovely emails. I just love to get them

Happy Thanksgiving.
ML
x

This week.

I went to see the taping for Celtic Thunder's 2 new PBS productions, Heritage and Christmas. I had a blast. I dont know what I expected really but honestly the Christmas show was particularly impressive. Phil Coulter's arrangements were great and I loves the lads performances. It is great to see Damien growing up and his voice has dropped to a spectacular chocolate bass. He has a big future that kid. As for the Heritage show, for me Keith's version of The Dutchman was just gorgeous. It was astounding to watch the Thunderheads in action. They are fanatical to say the least. Watching their reaction to our wearing coveted backstage passes was hilarious. Anyways, watch out for the Christmas tour dates and the special. It is full of Christmas cheer and just put me in a great mood.
I spent the evening , of course, looking at the whole set up as I prepare to put together my own dvd special. I feel great having seen it all in action as I can put my own production in perspective and now realise exactly what is involved.
Thanks to Sharon Browns and Jean Clancy for the invitation. I had a ball.
Meanwhile the boys are No 27 on Billboard charts this week and have 3 albums in the World Music Charts. Talk about great sales!!!
De Dannan bring out a new album this week. Watch out for it, Check out this video
Liz Knowles launches her album this week in Chicago. Check it out. She is a great fiddle player and this album is just gorgeous
I leave for Wexford and China in that order next week and will be out of the country for about a month. Looking forward to seeing the folks.

Best Week Ever

I have no idea what is going on astrologically but something has certainly altered to benefit me in the past few weeks. If anyone can explain this out there let me know(my birthday is April 13)

1. This week I got my approval notice that makes me an Alien of Extraordinary Ability making me FINALLY eligible for a Green Card. After all these years of 1 - 3 year artistic visas and interviews with agents on the border everytime I go back and forth to Ireland I can finally relax a little.This country has been so good to me and has offered me so much opportunity. I finally feel like I belong here. For the longest time I have been in no mans land. Thank you to Barbara McCormick, the best immigration lawyer in the US. If you know of anyone who needs help send them to Dornan and Associates


2. I guess the biggest news is that I have been approached about filming my own show for TV. I wont give you details yet in case I jinx it but it will be recorded in early 2011. There will be a dvd and cd recording of the show. I promise to give you more info soon.



4. On September 16 I am doing a private concert in NYC for an audience of 75 people. We are charging $150 per person with a view to sending all money raised to Concern's projects in Haiti. The concert is being held in a luxurious Central Park West townhouse. If anyone in NYC is interested in coming to this exclusive show, email mjb@michaellondra.com for details.

5. The High Kings are playing Chicago August 17 and I wanted everyone to know about it as they are brilliant live and I know it will be a great night. For details go to Irish American Heritage Center

Natasha McShane Event

So, I sang at an amazing event yesterday at the Irish American Heritage Center in Chicago. What an amazing place...I had no idea. The library alone is worth the trip.
I sang at a mass at the start of the event to raise funds for Natasha McShane, an Irish girl who was mugged 2 months ago in Bucktown. The girl needs huge medical attention and the Irish community of the town rallied in amazing numbers to show for a fantastic event raising hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Got to hear some great music. I was so impressed by Paddy Homan whose version of Bard of Armagh was about the best i have ever heard. The new band featuring Paddy, Maurice Lennon, Dennis Cahill and Jimmy Keane is truly brilliant.
Got to meet friends like Cliff Carlson and Patrick Fitzell
Great day altogether.