Josef Locke – In Concert - The Songs I Love So Well

Josef Locke – In Concert - The Songs I Love So Well

Josef Locke – In Concert - The Songs I Love So Well captures the rich voice and unmistakable stage presence of one of Ireland's best-loved popular tenors. Born Joseph McLaughlin in Derry in 1917, Locke rose to national fame during the 1940s and 1950s, earning the affectionate nickname 'The Singing Bobby' before becoming a major star of the British variety circuit. His powerful tenor, expressive delivery and flair for theatrical performance made him a distinctive figure in traditional Irish song and popular vocal music.

This concert recording showcases the repertoire that made Locke such an enduring favourite, bringing together cherished Irish ballads, nostalgic standards and songs associated with his remarkable career. The programme moves from the spirited brass-band favourite 'Blaze Away' and the much-loved Irish song 'The Old Bog Road' to enduring ballads including 'Slievenamon', 'Danny Boy' and 'I'll Take You Home Again Kathleen'. These familiar melodies sit alongside sentimental popular standards such as 'Little Grey Home In The West' and 'On The Street Where You Live', illustrating the breadth of Locke's repertoire beyond traditional Irish music.

The selection also has a strong connection to Derry and Irish musical identity. 'The Town I Loved So Well', written by Phil Coulter, is a particularly evocative addition, while 'Lovely Derry OnThe Banks Of The Foyle' celebrates the singer's native city. 'She Moved Through The Fair' brings a traditional Irish folk song into the programme, contrasting with the dramatic popular appeal of 'My Way' and the emotional farewell of 'Goodbye'.

The album's live-concert setting is central to its appeal. Locke was renowned for combining vocal power with warmth, showmanship and an instinct for connecting with an audience. His repertoire crossed the boundaries between Irish song, traditional pop and operatic-style popular singing, making him a familiar presence to generations of listeners on both sides of the Irish Sea.

For admirers of Josef Locke, traditional Irish ballads and classic tenor performances, In Concert - The Songs I Love So Well offers a varied programme of much-loved songs from a celebrated entertainer. It will appeal to listeners exploring Ireland's popular vocal heritage, fans of mid-century variety entertainment and collectors interested in the recorded legacy of one of Derry's most famous musical sons.

Tracklist

Side A
A1. Blaze Away
A2. The Old Bog Road
A3. Slievenamon
A4. I'll Take You Home Again Kathleen
A5. Danny Boy
A6. Little Grey Home In The West
A7. Sweet Sixteen
A8. The Bold Gendarmes

Side B
B1. The Town I Loved So Well
B2. She Moved Through The Fair
B3. The Old House
B4. Lovely Derry OnThe Banks Of The Foyle
B5. OnThe Street Where You Live
B6. My Way
B7. The Mountains Of Mourne
B8. Goodbye