Jazz and new beginnings

It’s been a long time since I last updated this page. My apologies as It has been a hectic period. It has had its ups and downs. I had a few operations on my back. My fourth to date. And I really want to thank the doctors, nurses, and the whole medical team here. It really was excellent and they had me back up and running in no time. Mind you I’m a very hard person to keep down anyway and the recovery was hard and I am sure I drove all involved slightly bonkers with my lack of patience, but we got there and I am only too happy to be back singing.

I sang at numerous events such as the Global Aerospace Summit in Abu Dhabi, BVLGARI, Travel Arabia and Dewar’s. The latter gave me the opportunity to put together an amazing bunch of excellent jazz musicians from all corners of the world; Russia, Scotland, India, Kazakhstan, England and of course, Ireland; Me J. It truly was so memorable from start to finish, here’s a clip of our very first rehearsal that I’m so proud of http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y4WmvIj8W1c. Some great Jazz from a bunch of musicians that I will perform with again and again. And here’s a pic of all on the night.

We are now at the end of the Holy month of Ramadan and beginning of Eid. For those who are not familiar with Ramadan, let me give you some of my experience. Firstly this is my third Ramadan living in Dubai. It is also a month that never ceases to amaze me by all that is happening around me. Dubai goes very quiet compared to the usual hustle and bustle. Ramadan is a month of fasting and contemplating. Most Western children go home and often the entire family. My own children returned home in July and the house and everything around you becomes very calm and peaceful. It’s quite amazing because you actually do have the opportunity to contemplate and think about life and the world around you. You become very aware of people who are fasting and hugely respect their values. Therefore you do not eat or drink in public or around those fasting as a sign of respect.

Ramadan is also a month of extreme kindness and generosity. Every day, come sunset, people break their fast. But also you see many tents erected everywhere here for the poor to break their fast. Free food and drink is donated to help the poor. And if you happen to be driving at sunset. No matter who you are. If you stop at major traffic junctions, you will be presented with a little gift. I happened to be at one of these junctions at sunset one day and was presented with a box containing water, dates and fruit juices. One of the kindest gestures I have seen. There truly is an air of hope and happiness throughout. Especially at a time where there is a lot of atrocities being committed around the world. Which brings me to my next topic; Palestine.

When you get to the stage when you can no longer bear to watch the news on the ongoing slaughter of Palestinians every day. I never stop praying for these people. And I truly wish the world could come together to end these atrocities. Me being Irish I have a huge compassion for the Palestinians. As we too were slaughtered for many years. I hope one day, they will enjoy the freedom that we enjoy now. I never stop thinking about the defenseless women and children who live in terror every day. I can now see that the world is taking action and if we all work together maybe these people will be allowed to live like we are all given the right to as human beings.

Now we are celebrating Eid. It’s a time to thank god for what we are given. Visit the family and friends, and exchange gifts. I will soon see my lovely boys again whose laughter and great chats I miss terribly now. I love Eid and this is my third one in this country. Dubai reverts back to its vibrant life and the music begins again. I for one, am so looking forward to the next season.

I have just finished recording some great Jazz tunes that I’m hoping I’ll be able to share with you over the next few weeks .The full band will be back in rehearsals soon and I will be announcing upcoming performances etc. So watch this space. And Eid Mubarak to all my lovely friends and family.

Jazz in Arabia

I welcomed 2014 with a wonderful opportunity to perform my first ever wedding. Now let me tell you a little bit of history; I have never actually performed at a wedding, this was never on my agenda. However, this exceptional couple both of Arabic origin living in Paris contacted me. They were a lovely couple and their love of jazz was music to my ears. It turned out to be one of the most memorable experiences performing with my band at their Arabic themed wedding. I will never say never.

After the wedding, they sent me the most beautiful email ever. And as they said ‘viva le Jazz’.

A few days later I received an email from an Emirati lady asking me to perform at her birthday celebration at the end of January. We agreed to meet to discuss details. I cannot begin to explain how pleasantly surprised I was to meet this beautiful young lady and her most beautiful mother laughing, loving and sharing my songs. I really felt, after all the hard work, the Arabs and I share the same love of music.

They knew every song, every artist and I was so excited as, again, this was a first for me. Now, taking into account that I met these two beautiful ladies wearing the local dress with their hair covered up. All that was visible to me was their faces. When I arrived at the party, which was a Disney themed event with all the old romantic Disney tunes, I was utterly blown away by their beauty, their magnificent hair and their exceptional style. I will never forget the manner in which I was treated. I can honestly say this will stay with me for life. 

Their kindness, their respect, their culture and I really felt at home. We had such a great fun evening.  And to see the entire party up dancing to tunes like Sway, Whatever Lola wants, King of the swingers etc. was a dream come true. I laughed and danced with them and couldn’t believe they knew every Jazz song that I performed. I have never experienced anything like this before. For the first time ever, I sang ‘happy birthday’ in Arabic ‘sana helwa ya jameel…..’

Finding Ireland in Dubai

Being Irish living in Dubai, one tends to miss the lush green and a little bit of rain. But, I have discovered my own little piece of Ireland in the magnificent surroundings of Safa Park. It is Dubai’s answer to Central Park. This park offers you everything. At the week end, it is full of hustle and bustle. You can hear none stop laughter of people enjoying the sunshine to the full. Dubai is truly magnificent at this time of the year. The temperature is just right and every now and then we get a few showers. When I’m walking in these showers, I really feel back at home.

The flea market and the organic food market in the park are a must at the week-end. Bring plenty of cash because you are going to spend it.

During the week, the park is the most peaceful haven. This is when I go for my daily walk around the park and meet people from all nationalities and walks of life. I do have one complaint; my adorable woof woof Maximus is not allowed. I do understand this as I can honestly say that Dubai is the cleanest city I have ever lived in. and I lived in many of them.

I discover new things about this huge park every day. It is a wonder how they keep the park this green. I truly have found my piece of Ireland. Who knows, I may end up singing Jazz in the Park.