Singer-songwriter Patsy Cavanagh's new album is out just in time for Christmas

Donegal singer-songwriter Patsy Cavanagh has released his new album Mainly Folk just in time for the Christmas market.

Patsy, from Greencastle, is a well-known figure on the Irish songwriting scene for many years with a catalogue that goes back to the 1980s. As well as having his own albums his songs have been recorded here in Ireland and in America, Australia, Britain, and in several European countries.

With songs like Home to Donegal, The Old Schoolyard, I Wish You Well, Can't Hold the Years Back and many more he has had songs covered every year since 1988. Home to Donegal has been covered over 100 times to date and is now being performed by many of the up-and-coming folk groups as well.

“It's great to see the young folks singing the song now too. It has become something of an anthem for Donegal,” he says.

Daniel O'Donnell has included two of Patsy's songs on his latest album How Lucky I Must Be and the title track on Daniel's last album I Wish You Well, was also a Patsy Cavanagh song

Patsy’s new album Mainly Folk is a collection of 14 of his songs which travel through Ireland from Famine times in 1840s to the present and include songs on emigration, farmers of yesteryear, fishing, winning the lotto, troubles in the north, after-hours in the pub, dealing with Covid and more. As the title suggests, the songs are all based on everyday life experiences.

“I think a lot of people will identify with the stories being told in these songs, some sad, some humorous but themes that people relate to,” Patsy added. “I have always wanted to put these songs on one album as they were scattered over many years of writing.

“I haven't put this album on any of the streaming platforms yet as I enjoy the contact with those who buy my songs. Over the years I have made many friends like this. It is very much in keeping with the way that I write the song I think.

“Some people have already bought Mainly Folk as a Christmas present and hopefully there will be a few more over the coming weeks. The album will be available in selected shops around Inishowen or by telephoning (074) 9381104 or email: patsycavanagh2@gmail.com or simply call to the house. Thank you!