About the Poem

You Don't Get To Be Racist And Irish" documents Irish people's history of immigration and emigration and May says that it is now time for Irish people to return the favor.

The poem also touches on Ireland's history and heritage, pointing out the hypocrisy of singing songs glorifying Irish freedom, the Famine, and martyrs in the struggle for Irish independence while simultaneously ignoring or looking down on people who are now suffering. 

The poem took centre stage on 200 billboards across the country in 2020 and coincided with the launch of Rethink Ireland, a new Government backed  equality fund set up to help those most affected by inequality.
____________________________________

About the Poet

Imelda Mary Clabby, professionally known as Imelda May, is an Irish singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist. 

 Described as "a unique vocal talent," May is known for her musical style of rockabilly revival and has also been compared to female jazz musicians such as Billie Holiday. 

Born and raised in The Liberties area of Dublin in  1974, May began her career in music at 16 by performing with a number of local bands and musicians. She formed her own band in 2002, and released her debut studio album, in 2003 and has released a further 4 albums since then, Her next album, 11past the House is due for release in April 2021

 Although known primarily as a singer, she also plays the bodhrán, guitar, bass guitar and tambourine.

 And Most recently, she has been sharing some of her poems, Her debut spoken word EP of 9 poems set to music  - "Slip of the Tongue" was released in 2020.

____________________________________

How to Listen and follow

You can listen to the podcast , My Poetry Readings, on iTunes, Spotify and Google Podcasts by clicking on any of the links above or on the podcast website

You can also subscribe and follow the podcast on social media by clicking on the links either on the top banner or the links below:-

Facebook -   @mypoetryreadings
Instagram -  @mypoetryreadings
Twitter:-       @mypoetryreadin1
Youtube:-      My Poetry Readings with Declan Walsh
___________________________________

Now for the promotion bit!

I hope you enjoy and looking forward to hearing any comments or suggestions that you may have .If you have enjoyed , please spread the word , like , share  (etc!)  -by  clicking the 'Share  Episode' link above.   

If you can, please leave a review and star rating on Apple Podcasts. This will help others to also enjoy the podcast.

Thanks for listening  - Till next time..

Slán go fóill

Declan
______________________________________________


Other links

Reading by Imelda May - RTE for Culture June 2020