In memory of Moya Brennan | When Eoin visited the Clannad icon in Gweedore
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In a heartfelt episode of OTB GAA, host Eoin O'Connell visits Moya Brennan in Gweedore, Donegal, to celebrate her deep roots in the region and her legendary career with Clannad. The conversation unfolds at the iconic Tavern O'Leo, a family-run pub that has become a pilgrimage site for fans of Irish music and culture. Moya reflects on her upbringing in a large musical family, the founding of Clannad, and how the raw beauty and Gaelic soul of Donegal shaped their sound. She shares stories of early resistance to singing in Irish, the band’s unexpected international success, and the enduring connection between music, language, and community in Gweedore. The episode also explores the intersection of sport and music in the pub, with Moya expressing her passion for Donegal football, her memories of All-Ireland victories, and her admiration for figures like Jim McGuinness and Eamon McGee. Her love for West Ham United and her role in the iconic 'When the Saints Go Marching In' tribute to Ireland’s 1990 World Cup campaign add further layers to her multifaceted identity as a cultural ambassador.
Clannad’s sound was deeply shaped by the landscape, language, and community of Gweedore, Donegal.
Singing in Irish was once considered uncool, but Moya Brennan and Clannad helped transform it into a source of national pride.
The Tavern O'Leo pub is not just a venue but a living monument to family, music, and Donegal’s cultural identity.
Music and sport are deeply intertwined in Gweedore, with both fostering community spirit and national pride.
Moya Brennan’s journey reflects the power of staying true to one’s roots, even when the world doubts you.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Welcome to Gweedore and Tavern O'Leo
Eoin O'Connell arrives in Gweedore, Donegal, and introduces the iconic Tavern O'Leo, the heart of the community and the birthplace of Clannad. He sets the scene for a deep dive into Moya Brennan’s roots and the cultural significance of the area.
Moya Brennan’s Roots in Donegal
Moya shares her personal journey of returning to Donegal after 30 years in Dublin, her love for the landscape, and how the region’s beauty and Gaelic heritage have shaped her identity and music.
The Birth of Clannad and the Tavern O'Leo Legacy
“We didn’t listen to them, thank God. You know, but that was us. We always did what we wanted to do and that was... And we stuck with it.”
Music, Language, and Cultural Identity
“It makes my heart sing to think that you know how much it's had advanced to the time that we were kind of laughed at and told that you know from very raptureful people that would have said to us, you know, you have a lovely sound but you won't get anywhere with the singing in Irish and Gaelic.”
Sport, Community, and the All-Ireland Final
“I think we will. Very good. I think we will, you know. Kerry came up here, was it the beginning of last year? Was it last year the beginning of the league or something? We bet them. And so we'll do it again. There you go. You've done it once, you can do it twice.”
“It makes my heart sing to think that you know how much it's had advanced to the time that we were kind of laughed at and told that you know from very raptureful people that would have said to us, you know, you have a lovely sound but you won't get anywhere with the singing in Irish and Gaelic.”
“We didn’t listen to them, thank God. You know, but that was us. We always did what we wanted to do and that was... And we stuck with it.”
“You know, the sound of Clannad, where did the sound come from? And I often say to them, come to Donegal and you'll feel that earthiness. There's an earthiness here.”
Host
Guest
Clannad
other
Donegal
place
Moya Brennan
person
Tavern O'Leo
other
Gweedore
place
Jim McGuinness
person
West Ham United
other
Sam McGuire Cup
other
Eamon McGee
person
Liverpool FC
other
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