Synopses & Reviews
In this delightful volume, Malachy McCourt explores the mysteries and meanings of "Danny Boy," the beloved ballad with roots in distant centuries, recorded by everyone from Tony Bennett to Joan Baez to Black 47, and sung in both mourning and celebration by millions, Irish and non-Irish alike. With commentary from such luminaries as Seamus Heaney, Liam Neeson, and his own brother, Frank, he offers a surprising and emotional journey of a book, centered around one of the most enduring songs in history.
Review
...McCourt's reprise of 'Danny Boy' is highly entertaining and idiosyncratically informative. (Publishers Weekly) Entertaining...Recommended. (Library Journal)
Synopsis
Whether sung at funeral masses or by Elvis Presley, the song Danny Boy nearly always raises a lump in the throat. The song itself may be simple and direct, but McCourt ("A Monk Swimming") has written a lively and detailed cultural history of the tune's origins, cultural meanings, and political import that is as fascinating as it is frequently provocative.
Synopsis
In this delightful volume, Malachy McCourt takes readers on a surprising and emotional journey, centered around one of the most enduring songs in history. Exploring the mysteries of 'Danny Boy,' a song with roots in distant centuries, this tribute features commentary from such luminaries as Seamus Heaney, Liam Neeson, and the author's brother, Frank McCourt.
About the Author
Malachy McCourt was born in Brooklyn, New York, and raised in Limerick, Ireland. He was a pioneer in talk radio and went on to have an illustrious career on stage, screen, and television. He lives in New York City. McCourt is the bestselling author of A Monk Swimming and Singing My Him Song.