🎶 Press Play for a Celtic Groove That Defies Expectations 🎵🔥

Michael McGoldrick’s James Brown’s March, featured on Sharon Shannon’s Upside Down album (2006), is a fusion of tradition and rhythm—a piece that brings Celtic melodies into fresh, unexpected territory. Inspired by the legendary funk energy of James Brown, McGoldrick crafts a driving, hypnotic tune that pulses with momentum and musical ingenuity.

This track is a perfect complement to McGoldrick & Tim Edey’s journey of reimagining Celtic tradition, blending heritage with innovation.

💫 Hit play, let the rhythm take over, and experience the evolution of Celtic music firsthand. 🎶🔥

🎶🪕✨🍀🌊🐚🪄😊 James Brown’s March - Michael McGoldrick, Sharon Shannon & Friends

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Few musicians embody the spirit of Celtic tradition while pushing its boundaries quite like Michael McGoldrick and Tim Edey.

Their decades-long friendship, countless collaborations, and individual mastery of their instruments have made them pillars of the folk and traditional music scene. From their work with Sharon Shannon to their latest album Jamland, these two virtuosos continue to redefine what Celtic music can be.

🎭 The Story Behind the Friendship

McGoldrick and Edey first crossed paths in the mid-1990s, when Edey was a young prodigy making waves with his melodeon and guitar skills. McGoldrick, already an established force in the folk world, recognized Edey’s talent immediately. Over the years, their paths intertwined through various projects, festival appearances, and shared musical influences.

Their friendship is built on mutual admiration—McGoldrick’s flute, uilleann pipes, and whistle playing is legendary, while Edey’s guitar and melodeon work has earned him accolades, including BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards’ Musician of the Year. Their chemistry is undeniable, whether on stage or in the studio, and their ability to anticipate each other’s musical phrasing makes their performances electrifying.

🎶 Collaborations That Defined Their Legacy

McGoldrick and Edey have collaborated on numerous projects, both as a duo and alongside other folk legends. Some of their most notable collaborations include:

Sharon Shannon’s Album Renegade (2007) – Featuring McGoldrick’s flute and Edey’s guitar, this album blended traditional Irish melodies with contemporary influences.

Lúnasa & Capercaillie – McGoldrick’s tenure in these bands helped shape modern Celtic music, while Edey’s work with The Chieftains and Christy Moore solidified his reputation.

Jamland (2024) – Their first full collaborative album, Jamland is a masterclass in traditional and original compositions, showcasing their combined expertise.

Live Performances at Celtic Connections & Bromyard Folk Festival – Their concerts are legendary, filled with spontaneous improvisation and deep musical storytelling.

📀 The Music of Tim Edey – A Journey Through His Albums

Tim Edey’s solo work is just as impressive as his collaborations. His albums span decades and showcase his versatility:

Irish Music From The Dingle Peninsula And Beyond (2006) – A deep dive into traditional Irish melodies.

Disgrace Notes (2010, with Séamus Begley) – A lively, raw collection of tunes.

Sailing Over The 7th String (2012) – A showcase of Edey’s guitar mastery.

The Sleeping Tunes Series (2017-2020) – A trilogy of albums exploring the softer, meditative side of Celtic music.

Little Bird (2024) – A career-spanning collection of Edey’s compositions, blending folk, jazz, and classical influences.

🌍 Their Role in Traditional Celtic Music & Its Future

McGoldrick and Edey are more than just musicians—they are custodians of Celtic tradition, ensuring its evolution while respecting its roots. Their ability to reinterpret classic tunes while introducing new compositions has kept the genre fresh and relevant.

Looking ahead, their influence will continue to shape the next generation of folk musicians. With AI-driven music production and digital collaborations becoming more common, McGoldrick and Edey’s organic, deeply human approach to music serves as a reminder of the power of live performance and musical storytelling.

Their upcoming performances at Celtic Connections 2026 and Bromyard Folk Festival 2025 promise to be milestones in their journey, proving that Celtic music is not just surviving—it’s thriving2.

🎬 Final Thoughts – A Legacy in Motion

McGoldrick and Edey’s partnership is a testament to the enduring magic of Celtic music. Whether through their collaborations, solo projects, or live performances, they continue to redefine tradition, proving that timeless melodies can always find new life.

For musicians like yourself, their work is an invitation to explore, innovate, and celebrate the rich tapestry of folk music. So, what tune will you play next? 🎶✨

#CelticFusion 🎶🔥 #TradMeetsJazz 🎷✨ #FolkInnovation 🪕💡 #McGoldrickEdey 🤝🎵 #MusicalAlchemy 🌀🎸