Sharon Shannon, the acclaimed Irish musician, is returning to Lanzarote after not having set foot in the island for a while. Incidentally, it was one of her gigs here that I first wrote about when I started collaborating with Lanzarote Information, all those years ago!
So I got in touch with her to find out more about her next visit. I also took the chance to learn a bit more about her and her love affair with our island.
Where are you from originally, Sharon?
I’m from Corofin, Co. Clare in the West of Ireland.
What brought you to Lanzarote in the first place?
I was invited out to play for a week at Charlie’s Bar by the then owner Barry Murphy. Loads of my family and friends came with me and we made several new friends for life there.
Do you remember what the first impressions of the island were?
I was blown away by the beautiful scenery.
How long has it been since the list time you were in Lanzarote?
I think it’s three or four years since I was last there. Way too long!
Is there something in particular you are looking forward to doing when you are over next?
I’m really looking forward to going back to Lanzarote and it will be my first time playing in The Island Bar. And I hear there is a new vegetarian/vegan restaurant in Puerto del Carmen. Can’t wait to visit that. I’ll be there every day. (She is talking about Bistro Árbol, which Julie reviewed recently.
What do you like about the island?
The sunshine, the scenery, the people, the music, parasailing, sight-seeing, walking along the coast and swimming in the sea.
What is your favourite place in Lanzarote?
My favourite thing to do in Lanzarote is to relax completely and soak up the sunshine and swim several times every day.
What instruments do you play?
Whistle, fiddle and accordion.
How would you describe your music to someone who has never heard you?
Music that makes people happy and want to dance. Irish music with a strong rock and roll influence.
Who is your idol musically speaking?
I have always been hugely influenced by amazing Donegal fiddle player Tommy Peoples.
Do you have any special projects coming up?
I have a brand new album out at the moment called Sacred Earth. So I am doing a lot of touring to promote the new album.
I hope you bring plenty of copies on your suitcase!
When and where will you be playing when you will be back in Ireland?
The next Irish gigs we have is a Christmas tour starting on December 27th in Donegal.
How can our readers keep up to date with your gigs?
People can keep up to date with our gigs and more on the Sharon Shannon Facebook page and on the website.
Anything else you’d like to tell our readers?
I’m really looking forward to going back to Lanzarote and catching up with old friends and meeting new people. Thanks for reading and I hope people come and hear us and meet us and check out our brand new album.
Many thanks for your time Sharon, looking forward to seeing & hearing your soon! Safe travelling!
Read more: Interview with Mick Garry.
