Celtic Woman
Kate Corrigan's eclectic mix of musical style, modernising traditional music and bringing to it a sexy sophistication has her hailed as ‘Britain's next Celtic/Folk star'. By Kimberley Peacock - 05/11/08
After emerging from the Royal College of Music she opted out of operatic singing and instead pursued her dream by inventing her own unique style of Celtic soul. Corrigan and her band perform a vivacious set of songs by some of the musical greats including Mary Black, Dolores Keane, Mary Hopkin and Alison Krauss. Coupled with a fabulous career, Kate also has a fascinating personal life – she was adopted as a child and was eventually reunited with her Irish biological family at the age of 22. I catch up with her to discuss music, fame and family…
What is ‘Celtic Soul’ and where did it originate from?
I created the style myself. I sing songs by Celtic women who inspire me from when I was younger, growing up. The Celtic aspect of my music is obviously very close to my Irish heritage, but its also folky with a pop and classical crossover. I want to bring my soul, my style and a modern twist to Celtic music. I’ve always loved Celtic music, though I had tons of different music played in my house, from jazz to classical.
Do you bring a certain ‘sex appeal’ or edginess to this type of music?
Absolutely! I’m in my twenties, living in this decade; so, just as women like Mary Hopkin’s were sexy in their time, I feel sexy in mine. I hope to bring a modern twist to the sound. With the covers that I’m doing, I hope to create a different style of music which is more in touch with what we listen to nowadays.
Do you intend to appeal to a more mainstream market?
I think so. I think my music would appeal to 40-somethings and over, it’s bringing back the music of their childhood. Also, because of the modern edge I bring to the music, I think it will appeal to younger people too. Possibly the Radio 2 or classical radio listener.
How did it feel to debut with ‘Keltic Soul’ in the Troubadour?
Amazing! The Troubadour will always hold a special place in my heart. With the classical training I’ve done I had performed in the Royal Albert Hall, and then to go and perform in an intimate, dark, cosy venue was such a change. I’ve always dreamt of performing in somewhere like that. The Troubadour will always be a very special place for me.
Your debut single ‘Take me home’ was released last year, what’s it about?
It was released to coincide with Remembrance Sunday, and its message is for anyone who is away from home, from their families. It emphasises how much ‘home’ is the best place to be. It was terrifically suited to my voice and style. The irony is that it fits my life and the situations I’ve been placed in like a glove, as I was adopted and brought up by an English family, and then discovered my Irish family when I was 22.
Has finding your biological family helped you to make sense of your own life, and your passion for music?
That’s so right. I’ve always had a passion for singing, and for music in general. I always wondered when I was growing up where my musical ability came from. Why could I sing so well? When I met my biological family, it suddenly clicked. Before I met my family, I was definitely veering towards becoming an operatic singer, but after meeting them I began to be involved in singing Irish music a lot more. My uncle has an amazing baritone, and since we’ve met he’s taught me a lot of Irish songs which we have sung together many times.
For the full interview, buy this week's Irish World!
For more info visit www.kate-corrigan.com.
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