What inspires a songwriter to create a piece of music? For singer songwriter Fiona Kennedy, writing a song about author Dervla Murphy, whose work had a real effect on her approach to life, was the catalyst for ‘Natural Woman’, a wonderful mélange of songs and readings. Fionas journey as a musician began in the mid 80’s and the realization of how so many different women influenced her along the way prompted a creative surge , resulting in a collection of songs & stories, all very different but each performed with the warmth & skill that has helped build Fiona’s loyal fanbase over the decades. The shows title ‘Natural Woman’ is a nod to an encounter with legendary songwriter Carole King but you have to come to the show to hear that story!
As ‘Natural Woman’ features songs about various personages, either living or from history, relevant readings are part of the show too and these will be performed by Cork author Ethel Crowley. Ethels latest book ‘Life at full tilt’ inspired Kennedys song The Maverick about the life & times of groundbreaking irish author Dervla Murphy.
Fiona will be accompanied by two highly acclaimed musicians on the night, guitarist Billy Kennedy & pianist Paul Seymour with projection design by Cormac O'Connor.
Fiona Kennedy has carved out a long & prestigious musical career as an independent artist, thanks to her dedication & emotive prowess. She's been nominated for an IRMA Award, had her own one hour TV special on RTE, and has supported international artists such as Carole King, Kris Kristofferson & John Martyn. The Cork native released her latest album, Find Me in March 2023. In its first week of release, Find Me was made Album of the Week on RTE Lyric Fm’s Marty in the Morning show. Kennedys distinctive voice & songwriting brought her to the attention of leading presenters such as John Creedon & Ronan Collins & the opening track ‘ All Together Now, stayed on the RTE Radio 1 Recommends list for several weeks on its advance release and reached no.4 in the Irish & U.K. playlist chart. Another earlier single release ‘The Place of my Resurrection’ went straight into the ITunes chart at number 1.
Ethel Crowley PhD is an Irish sociologist and author based in Cork. Her latest book ‘Life at full tilt’ featured in the Irish Examiners top 30 books of 2023. This promises to be an exceptional night in the iconic "C.A.T. Club" Cork.