'You Don't Get to be Racist and Irish' - Imelda May (S1E11) Artwork

My Poetry Readings with Declan Walsh

My Poetry Readings is a podcast of poetry, from Ireland and elsewhere.Presented by Sligo based, Declan Walsh, (who is neither a poet or English literature scholar!) , it is a podcast of his journey to revisit the poems that may have shaped our lives and perhaps discovering new ones along the way.Each episode in this series includes an introduction to a popular poem, it’s this writer and the actual reading of the poem - leaving the interpretation of the poem to yourself.Check it out on https://mypoetryreadingswithdeclanwalsh.buzzsprout.com/

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My Poetry Readings with Declan Walsh

'You Don't Get to be Racist and Irish' - Imelda May (S1E11)

March 13, 2021 • Season 1 • Episode 11

About the Poem

You Don't Get To Be Racist And Irish" documents Irish people's history of immigration and emigration and May says that it is now time for Irish people to return the favor.

The poem also touches on Ireland's history and heritage, pointing out the hypocrisy of singing songs glorifying Irish freedom, the Famine, and martyrs in the struggle for Irish independence while simultaneously ignoring or looking down on people who are now suffering.

The poem took centre stage on 200 billboards across the country in 2020 and coincided with the launch of Rethink Ireland, a new Government backed equality fund set up to help those most affected by inequality.
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About the Poet

Imelda Mary Clabby, professionally known as Imelda May, is an Irish singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist.

Described as "a unique vocal talent," May is known for her musical style of rockabilly revival and has also been compared to female jazz musicians such as Billie Holiday.

Born and raised in The Liberties area of Dublin in 1974, May began her career in music at 16 by performing with a number of local bands and musicians. She formed her own band in 2002, and released her debut studio album, in 2003 and has released a further 4 albums since then, Her next album, 11past the House is due for release in April 2021

Although known primarily as a singer, she also plays the bodhrán, guitar, bass guitar and tambourine.

And Most recently, she has been sharing some of her poems, Her debut spoken word EP of 9 poems set to music - "Slip of the Tongue" was released in 2020.

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Now for the promotion bit!

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Thanks for listening - Till next time..

Slán go fóill

Declan
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Other links

Reading by Imelda May - RTE for Culture June 2020