It has been a privilege an honour to spend these last seasons journeyin the breadth of Ireland; from Moville to Ahakista, Ballyferriter to Bray; bardin original and traditional tunes for ya wonderful people.
What began as a simple call for ya favourite places to find a good pint an a wee sing-song has wandered farther than I ever could have imagined. This trail of songs, stories, an open doors is now known, with gratitude, as The Road to Vicar St! Still hardly believin it meself, I am proud to announce that I’ll be making me debut on that legendary Dublin stage on March 20th, 2027.
This moment belongs to those who gave the songs a corner, an every stranger who became a friend when the room was small and the road uncertain. This pilgrimage has ya footprints on it too! (see poster)
Presale: Wednesday, June 3rd, 2026 at 10am local On sale: Friday, June 5th, 2026 at 10am local
Sign up to the mailing list on me webpage or Patreon for presale access.
P.S. How feckin good is this artwork by Jacob Stack, by the way? He’s captured the whole mad ride perfectly; a sorta Where’s Waldo meets Tolkien map, while still being completely its own thing. I couldn’t be more thankful.
See ya there? Your support has made this all possible! Josh Okeefe
When I first washed up in Nashville, I was a young lad wit more hunger than talent. I’d only made passage there to learn how ta write a song worth the singin, like the ones from those who made poetry out of the town; Hank Williams, Dolly Parton, Johnny Cash, DeFord Bailey, Elsie McWilliams, Kris Kristofferson, Keith Gattis and the rest besides.
In those early days, I remember moochin a seat to the Grand Ole Opry by chance, findin meself inside listenin to Bobby Osborne and starin at that famous circle as if it were an altar. And I thought, if I worked hard enough, maybe someday a better voice than mine, like Bobby's, might stand there and sing one of me own songs, if I wa lucky.
Turns out that lad didn’t understand the plan one bit because on Saturday March 14th, 2026, I’ll be steppin into that historic circle for me Grand Ole Opry debut, a turn I never quite imagined for meself. Fallin over St. Patrick’s weekend makes it even sweeter still; Patrick being me middle name after all.
My performance is presented in partnership with the Irish Network Nashville, a fine bunch helpin folk find community far from where their stories first began and creating new opportunities across the Irish and Irish-American diaspora. I stand there myself as a small result of that same welcome.
Sure, these days I’m only five minutes up road so I wandered over to play tourist outside the doors and have a few photograph by Cora taken, purely for hype, mind you.
It’s a mad old world, isn’t it? I slipped away for a few weeks to tend to some business at home, and I’ll tell you; it was a mercy to be cut off. But the minute you plug yourself back in, there it is again, the whole bloody circus, flames licking at the tent. And I catch myself wondering: if Christ himself rolled back the stone, would he take one look and say, “Ah no, not today lads, I’ll give it another go tomorrow.”
So, what’s a singer-songwriter meant to do in the middle of all that? I’ve thought hard about what songs to throw into the storm, and whether they’d even make a dent. For the time being, I’ve decided to stay the course and keep sharing these live recordings from the ‪‪@Glenhansardmusic‬ tour across the United States in 2024. These videos are just sitting here, breathing, and I’d love for them to see the light.
I’d long dreamt of singing in theaters, though in the dreams it always went sideways; forgetting every word, strings snapping, or me wandering the stage in a blind panic, searching for a cable that was never there. So, when the chance came to step out at The Beacon Theatre in New York City, it felt like stepping into the fever itself. But the crowd met me so kindly, and in the middle of it all, I felt the weight of my people; family gone, friends buried, watching over me, steadying me and keeping me in the moment.
It’s taken some time to get the tapes cleared for social media and the picture colored, the usual dance. Hence the delay in having the footage ready to publish. These halls also had strict rules about filming, but we were kindly allowed to document my performance ourselves. Cora and I are no film experts, but what you’ll get is the view from the wings, as though you were peering through the curtains yourself, a glimpse of what it was to stand there, in the thick of it.
The second performance I’d like to share with you is “Thoughts & Prayers” - Live from The Beacon Theatre, New York City, NY. It was the third song of the night. As always, thank you so much for all your support along the way!
In the dying days of the rollercoaster year that was 2024, I found meself privileged, treading the boards in support of ‪Glen Hansard across the broad belly of the United States. The tour took us through famous theatres that hold the songs of a thousand nights and where ghosts hang side-stage with a cigarette and a shrug.
For some reason, there’s a quiet truth I always carry with me: every show could be my last. So, when I stepped into those beautiful, storied halls, I wanted to bottle the lightning that was to come. I tucked a camera into the shadows at the back of every stage, not for vanity, but for memory and hit record.
And there I was: the unfamiliar one. A lad with a guitar, a song, and no guarantee. It felt like stepping into a ring without knowing whether you’d be met with poetry or punishment. Still, I did what I always do, sang the truth the only way I know: me own songs, straight from the gut, with no promises made except to the moment itself.
It’s taken some time to get the tapes cleared for social media and the picture colored, all the usual dances. Hence the delay in having the footage ready to publish. However, it’s sorted now. Better late than never, right?
The first performance I’d like to share with you is “Build a Wall (Live from The Agora Theater, Cleveland, OH) recorded on September 1st, 2024. It was the first song of the night, no warm-up, no second take. Just me, a room full of people, and whatever spirit that place still holds.
Deoch an dorais: drink of the door, or one for the road, as the old saying goes. And what better way to take our leave, if only for a while, than with the timeless strains of "Foggy Dew"? This traditional, much like a well-poured pint, lingers long after it's gone, leaving you with the taste of something real, something that matters.
This performance was captured in a friend’s workshop on a misty afternoon in Rathcoursey East, Co. Cork, where the air itself hums with the echoes of old tales and rebel songs. There’s a distinct magic in that place where the land kisses the sea, which makes a man think of the stories that have shaped a people and the music that has carried them through it all...
Imagine the feeling of being down in a tunnel—where the air hangs heavy, the walls enclosing. It's easy to lose sight of the horizon, to yield beneath the weight of uncertainty. Yet, it is precisely in these moments of darkness that we are challenged to seek the flicker of hope, the promise of brighter days ahead.
These tunnels may not be made of stone, but they are no less daunting. Amidst the clamor of daily life, amidst personal and societal trials, we find ourselves digging and navigating through intricate passages, yearning for a glimpse of daylight.
In the depths of history, the Tunnel Tigers—Irish laborers of unwavering grit—plunged into the unforgiving earth, bravely chiseling through perilous rock and shadow to bridge worlds above and below. The saga of the 'Tunnel Tigers' and their song that echoes alongside transcends time and space, inviting us to ponder: is there truly light at the end of the tunnel?
Dying at sea, a fate feared by some and embraced by others, holds a unique allure, symbolizing a surrender to the boundless expanse and an acceptance of the inevitable cycle of life and nature. The sea, unforgiving yet enchanting, becomes both cradle and grave.
In the haunting strains of the 'Leaving of Liverpool,' a poignant acknowledgment lingers — the possibility of never seeing loved ones again. This ballad reflects the harsh reality faced by those on perilous journeys, where the sea represents both adventure and separation. It whispers the tales of sailors who sailed into the horizon, never to return to the arms of waiting loved ones, echoing the enduring hope that, somehow, the tides of fate might reunite them.
Singing at this spot in Ballycotton, Co. Cork, Ireland connected me to the maritime history of its waters, cliffs, and lighthouse — a nod to the resilience of a community that has faced the tempest's wrath. In the embrace of my own voyage, I find myself haunted by goodbyes spoken to people I have never seen again. The word 'goodbye' carries a weight, a profound awareness of the uncertainty that surrounds parting. The 'Leaving of Liverpool' becomes more than just a song but a vessel for these emotions.
So, as you navigate through these verses, remember the faces left on distant shores, the tears brushed away by salty winds, and the unspoken vows carried by the waves. In this shared contemplation, the 'Leaving of Liverpool' becomes a solemn companion on our collective journey of departure and longing.
P.S I am thinking of Shane MacGowan, his wonderful rendition of this song and his friends and family as I write this post. #folkmusic#ireland#joshokeefe
Can we dare to dream of freedom? Whenever I hear this song, I find myself getting lost in the timeless echoes of history. 'The Rising of the Moon' transcends relic status; it’s a reminder that the flame of hope burns eternal. Born from the struggles of those who came before us, it still resonates through the ages to the present day. This ballad not only reveals the shadows cast by conflict but also stands as a testament to the enduring human spirit and the hunger for a better tomorrow.
The solace in a quiet pint, a piping hot bowl of chowder, and a breath of fresh Éire were the simple desires that led me on a recent escapade to the magical gem nestled within Ireland's crown, Dingle, County Kerry. Little did I anticipate the extraordinary adventure that awaited me as I stumbled upon the charming embrace of Foxy John's, a unique haven that straddles the domains of a half bar and half hardware store.
In the shadowed corners of that hallowed establishment, I was recognized not only as a weary traveler seeking respite but also as a singer whose voice had traversed the realms of the internet. Kindred souls, with a twinkle in their eyes, acknowledged our shared love for music, conversation, and merriment. What began as a simple pint unfolded into a glorious symphony of five days, where the tunes flowed freely, the laughter echoed through the air, and bonds were forged that will undoubtedly withstand the test of time.
And now, my dear compatriots, I offer you a glimpse, a peak into my tapestry of these memories with this off the cuff performance of the traditional ballad “Sam Hall” that Cora and I captured on a quiet afternoon there.
As I immersed myself in the captivating verses of this song I think about the universal struggles we all face, the battles fought within and without. As Sam Hall faces his fate, tumbling down the path destiny has laid before him, I am reminded of the fleeting nature of our own lives. It compels me to seize the precious moments, to make choices aligned with my values, and to infuse my life with purpose and meaning.
But the story doesn't end here, my friends. I invite you to join me once again as we embark on a new journey together. I am thrilled to announce a series of upcoming performances on the Emerald Isle that includes another night in Foxy John’s. To ensure your presence in these evenings of song, be sure to reserve your spot early, as they tend to disappear like a whisper in the wind.
Josh Okeefe
VICAR STREET!!! 🇮🇪
It has been a privilege an honour to spend these last seasons journeyin the breadth of Ireland; from Moville to Ahakista, Ballyferriter to Bray; bardin original and traditional tunes for ya wonderful people.
What began as a simple call for ya favourite places to find a good pint an a wee sing-song has wandered farther than I ever could have imagined. This trail of songs, stories, an open doors is now known, with gratitude, as The Road to Vicar St! Still hardly believin it meself, I am proud to announce that I’ll be making me debut on that legendary Dublin stage on March 20th, 2027.
This moment belongs to those who gave the songs a corner, an every stranger who became a friend when the room was small and the road uncertain. This pilgrimage has ya footprints on it too! (see poster)
Presale: Wednesday, June 3rd, 2026 at 10am local
On sale: Friday, June 5th, 2026 at 10am local
Sign up to the mailing list on me webpage or Patreon for presale access.
P.S. How feckin good is this artwork by Jacob Stack, by the way? He’s captured the whole mad ride perfectly; a sorta Where’s Waldo meets Tolkien map, while still being completely its own thing. I couldn’t be more thankful.
See ya there?
Your support has made this all possible!
Josh Okeefe
1 month ago (edited) | [YT] | 16
View 0 replies
Josh Okeefe
Grand Ole Opry Debut! đź¤
When I first washed up in Nashville, I was a young lad wit more hunger than talent. I’d only made passage there to learn how ta write a song worth the singin, like the ones from those who made poetry out of the town; Hank Williams, Dolly Parton, Johnny Cash, DeFord Bailey, Elsie McWilliams, Kris Kristofferson, Keith Gattis and the rest besides.
In those early days, I remember moochin a seat to the Grand Ole Opry by chance, findin meself inside listenin to Bobby Osborne and starin at that famous circle as if it were an altar. And I thought, if I worked hard enough, maybe someday a better voice than mine, like Bobby's, might stand there and sing one of me own songs, if I wa lucky.
Turns out that lad didn’t understand the plan one bit because on Saturday March 14th, 2026, I’ll be steppin into that historic circle for me Grand Ole Opry debut, a turn I never quite imagined for meself. Fallin over St. Patrick’s weekend makes it even sweeter still; Patrick being me middle name after all.
My performance is presented in partnership with the Irish Network Nashville, a fine bunch helpin folk find community far from where their stories first began and creating new opportunities across the Irish and Irish-American diaspora. I stand there myself as a small result of that same welcome.
Sure, these days I’m only five minutes up road so I wandered over to play tourist outside the doors and have a few photograph by Cora taken, purely for hype, mind you.
See you there or be a square...dancer - yee haa
#grandoleopry #OpryDebut #nashville
4 months ago | [YT] | 93
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Josh Okeefe
It’s a mad old world, isn’t it? I slipped away for a few weeks to tend to some business at home, and I’ll tell you; it was a mercy to be cut off. But the minute you plug yourself back in, there it is again, the whole bloody circus, flames licking at the tent. And I catch myself wondering: if Christ himself rolled back the stone, would he take one look and say, “Ah no, not today lads, I’ll give it another go tomorrow.”
So, what’s a singer-songwriter meant to do in the middle of all that? I’ve thought hard about what songs to throw into the storm, and whether they’d even make a dent. For the time being, I’ve decided to stay the course and keep sharing these live recordings from the ‪‪@Glenhansardmusic‬ tour across the United States in 2024. These videos are just sitting here, breathing, and I’d love for them to see the light.
I’d long dreamt of singing in theaters, though in the dreams it always went sideways; forgetting every word, strings snapping, or me wandering the stage in a blind panic, searching for a cable that was never there. So, when the chance came to step out at The Beacon Theatre in New York City, it felt like stepping into the fever itself. But the crowd met me so kindly, and in the middle of it all, I felt the weight of my people; family gone, friends buried, watching over me, steadying me and keeping me in the moment.
It’s taken some time to get the tapes cleared for social media and the picture colored, the usual dance. Hence the delay in having the footage ready to publish. These halls also had strict rules about filming, but we were kindly allowed to document my performance ourselves. Cora and I are no film experts, but what you’ll get is the view from the wings, as though you were peering through the curtains yourself, a glimpse of what it was to stand there, in the thick of it.
The second performance I’d like to share with you is “Thoughts & Prayers” - Live from The Beacon Theatre, New York City, NY. It was the third song of the night. As always, thank you so much for all your support along the way!
8 months ago | [YT] | 9
View 1 reply
Josh Okeefe
In the dying days of the rollercoaster year that was 2024, I found meself privileged, treading the boards in support of ‪Glen Hansard across the broad belly of the United States. The tour took us through famous theatres that hold the songs of a thousand nights and where ghosts hang side-stage with a cigarette and a shrug.
For some reason, there’s a quiet truth I always carry with me: every show could be my last. So, when I stepped into those beautiful, storied halls, I wanted to bottle the lightning that was to come. I tucked a camera into the shadows at the back of every stage, not for vanity, but for memory and hit record.
And there I was: the unfamiliar one. A lad with a guitar, a song, and no guarantee. It felt like stepping into a ring without knowing whether you’d be met with poetry or punishment. Still, I did what I always do, sang the truth the only way I know: me own songs, straight from the gut, with no promises made except to the moment itself.
It’s taken some time to get the tapes cleared for social media and the picture colored, all the usual dances. Hence the delay in having the footage ready to publish. However, it’s sorted now. Better late than never, right?
The first performance I’d like to share with you is “Build a Wall (Live from The Agora Theater, Cleveland, OH) recorded on September 1st, 2024. It was the first song of the night, no warm-up, no second take. Just me, a room full of people, and whatever spirit that place still holds.
10 months ago | [YT] | 6
View 1 reply
Josh Okeefe
Foggy Dew
Deoch an dorais: drink of the door, or one for the road, as the old saying goes. And what better way to take our leave, if only for a while, than with the timeless strains of "Foggy Dew"? This traditional, much like a well-poured pint, lingers long after it's gone, leaving you with the taste of something real, something that matters.
This performance was captured in a friend’s workshop on a misty afternoon in Rathcoursey East, Co. Cork, where the air itself hums with the echoes of old tales and rebel songs. There’s a distinct magic in that place where the land kisses the sea, which makes a man think of the stories that have shaped a people and the music that has carried them through it all...
1 year ago (edited) | [YT] | 2
View 2 replies
Josh Okeefe
Tunnel Tigers
Imagine the feeling of being down in a tunnel—where the air hangs heavy, the walls enclosing. It's easy to lose sight of the horizon, to yield beneath the weight of uncertainty. Yet, it is precisely in these moments of darkness that we are challenged to seek the flicker of hope, the promise of brighter days ahead.
These tunnels may not be made of stone, but they are no less daunting. Amidst the clamor of daily life, amidst personal and societal trials, we find ourselves digging and navigating through intricate passages, yearning for a glimpse of daylight.
In the depths of history, the Tunnel Tigers—Irish laborers of unwavering grit—plunged into the unforgiving earth, bravely chiseling through perilous rock and shadow to bridge worlds above and below. The saga of the 'Tunnel Tigers' and their song that echoes alongside transcends time and space, inviting us to ponder: is there truly light at the end of the tunnel?
2 years ago | [YT] | 2
View 0 replies
Josh Okeefe
The Humours of Whiskey
Not too long ago, in the sway of County Clare's Wild Atlantic Way, a moment unfolded, suspended between reality and reverie. The untamed ocean, the embrace of fresh Eire, and a photograph to seize the essence. However, as I turned around from the scenery, confusion took hold. There, in front of me, stood The Quilty Tavern, its weathered facade whispering secrets of bygone days. A strange sense of déjà vu enveloped me, a puzzle in the breeze. Why was this place so hauntingly familiar? Had I walked through these doors in another life, or was it merely a dream?....
2 years ago (edited) | [YT] | 3
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Josh Okeefe
Leaving of Liverpool
Dying at sea, a fate feared by some and embraced by others, holds a unique allure, symbolizing a surrender to the boundless expanse and an acceptance of the inevitable cycle of life and nature. The sea, unforgiving yet enchanting, becomes both cradle and grave.
In the haunting strains of the 'Leaving of Liverpool,' a poignant acknowledgment lingers — the possibility of never seeing loved ones again. This ballad reflects the harsh reality faced by those on perilous journeys, where the sea represents both adventure and separation. It whispers the tales of sailors who sailed into the horizon, never to return to the arms of waiting loved ones, echoing the enduring hope that, somehow, the tides of fate might reunite them.
Singing at this spot in Ballycotton, Co. Cork, Ireland connected me to the maritime history of its waters, cliffs, and lighthouse — a nod to the resilience of a community that has faced the tempest's wrath. In the embrace of my own voyage, I find myself haunted by goodbyes spoken to people I have never seen again. The word 'goodbye' carries a weight, a profound awareness of the uncertainty that surrounds parting. The 'Leaving of Liverpool' becomes more than just a song but a vessel for these emotions.
So, as you navigate through these verses, remember the faces left on distant shores, the tears brushed away by salty winds, and the unspoken vows carried by the waves. In this shared contemplation, the 'Leaving of Liverpool' becomes a solemn companion on our collective journey of departure and longing.
P.S I am thinking of Shane MacGowan, his wonderful rendition of this song and his friends and family as I write this post. #folkmusic #ireland #joshokeefe
2 years ago | [YT] | 2
View 0 replies
Josh Okeefe
The Rising of the Moon
Can we dare to dream of freedom? Whenever I hear this song, I find myself getting lost in the timeless echoes of history. 'The Rising of the Moon' transcends relic status; it’s a reminder that the flame of hope burns eternal. Born from the struggles of those who came before us, it still resonates through the ages to the present day. This ballad not only reveals the shadows cast by conflict but also stands as a testament to the enduring human spirit and the hunger for a better tomorrow.
2 years ago | [YT] | 1
View 0 replies
Josh Okeefe
Sam Hall đź’€
The solace in a quiet pint, a piping hot bowl of chowder, and a breath of fresh Éire were the simple desires that led me on a recent escapade to the magical gem nestled within Ireland's crown, Dingle, County Kerry. Little did I anticipate the extraordinary adventure that awaited me as I stumbled upon the charming embrace of Foxy John's, a unique haven that straddles the domains of a half bar and half hardware store.
In the shadowed corners of that hallowed establishment, I was recognized not only as a weary traveler seeking respite but also as a singer whose voice had traversed the realms of the internet. Kindred souls, with a twinkle in their eyes, acknowledged our shared love for music, conversation, and merriment. What began as a simple pint unfolded into a glorious symphony of five days, where the tunes flowed freely, the laughter echoed through the air, and bonds were forged that will undoubtedly withstand the test of time.
And now, my dear compatriots, I offer you a glimpse, a peak into my tapestry of these memories with this off the cuff performance of the traditional ballad “Sam Hall” that Cora and I captured on a quiet afternoon there.
As I immersed myself in the captivating verses of this song I think about the universal struggles we all face, the battles fought within and without. As Sam Hall faces his fate, tumbling down the path destiny has laid before him, I am reminded of the fleeting nature of our own lives. It compels me to seize the precious moments, to make choices aligned with my values, and to infuse my life with purpose and meaning.
But the story doesn't end here, my friends. I invite you to join me once again as we embark on a new journey together. I am thrilled to announce a series of upcoming performances on the Emerald Isle that includes another night in Foxy John’s. To ensure your presence in these evenings of song, be sure to reserve your spot early, as they tend to disappear like a whisper in the wind.
August 02, 2023 - Hylands Hotel, Ballyvaughan, Co. Clare IRE
August 03, 2023 - DeBarra's, Clonakilty, Co. Cork, IRE
August 04, 2023 - John Lee's, Tullamore, Co. Offaly, IRE
August 05, 2023 - Hole in the Wall, Kilkenny, Co. Kilkenny, IRE | SOLD OUT
August 06, 2023 - FĂ©ile Na hAbhann, Belfast, N.IRE
August 10, 2023 - Foxy Johns, Dingle, Co. Kerry, IRE
August 11, 2023 - Curby’s Bar, Ardfert, Co. Kerry, IRE
August 12, 2023 - The Village Inn, Bohola, Co. Mayo, IRE
August 17th 2023 - Spirit Store, Dundalk, Co. Louth IRE
I eagerly await the moment our paths cross once again, Josh Okeefe
#dingle #ireland
3 years ago | [YT] | 1
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