My first LP was Midnight Hustle, a 1978 hits collection featuring Boney M and 10cc. I still remember the thrill of listening to it late on Christmas Eve, my ear pinned to the speaker.
Bought at the Sound Shop in Drogheda, our record player sat in the living room right next to the TV. Since there were only two channels back then, the record player often won the entertainment battle. With no headphones, listening to an album was a shared family experience initiated by the phrase, “Put a record on!”
Album covers were iconic works of art; we poured over inner sleeves for lyrics and credits, occasionally finding a secret poster. As my musical tastes matured past Showaddywaddy, I fell in love with Top of the Pops favorites like Blondie, Dexys Midnight Runners, and U2. Seeing Irish bands like U2 and The Boomtown Rats find global success was a massive point of pride.
Eventually, vinyl gave way to cassettes, CDs, and now streaming. Today, music is often consumed in solitude through earbuds. The communal magic of vinyl is gone, replaced by modern skipping. We rarely experience an album as a complete, intentional work anymore.
Music is scientifically proven to boost our mood and release endorphins. Today, my record player sits in my dedicated creative room at home—offering constant companionship and a perfect refuge from the stresses of life.
Update
Delighted to see tickets selling so well for my upcoming shows in Sligo and Castleblayney.
This is a chance for the general public to hear my messages about living life fully despite challenges. The show will combine psychology, poetry, storytelling, and humour. Tickets are available now.
Tickets for the Iontas Theatre, Castleblayney on September 5th at 8pm are on sale here
Tickets for the Hawk’s Well, Sligo on September 10th 8pm on sale here
