Introducing Irish GRAMMY nominee: Aoife O’Donovan
In a recent conversation with Aoife O’Donovan, the celebrated singer-songwriter opens up about her most recent Grammy nomination and the cultural roots that have helped shape her music. With her Irish-American heritage deeply intertwined in her sound, O’Donovan reflects on the personal and artistic journey that led to this recognition.
In this interview ahead of her appearance at the GRAMMYs, O’Donovan shares insights into her craft, the meaning behind her newest record, “All My Friends”, and how her dual nationality continues to influence her work.
In your music, there is often a sense of storytelling that feels timeless, rooted in both Irish and American folk traditions. Can you share how the traditions of both countries have shaped your craft?
I grew up surrounded by Irish songs and stories – I loved the folk tales (Children of Lir features a woman named “Aoife” as a wicked witch) and folk songs, but also the more contemporary songs, sung by Dolores Keane and Mary Black, among others. I remember so clearly the year “A Woman’s Heart” came out – that album was hugely influential for me. In terms of storytelling, I have always been inspired by Irish writers. Even going back to my childhood, the characters brought to life by Enid Blyton and Patricia Lynch loomed large in my mind. I sing about The Turf-Cutter’s Donkey in my song “Magic Hour”, written about the gloaming setting on the beaches of West Cork.
Your late father Brian O’Donovan was a well-known champion of Boston’s Irish music community, is there any advice he gave you that still resonates with your career today? And what Irish musicians, bands or artists have made the greatest impact on you, and the music that you make?
Solas, Karan Casey, Dervish, Danu, Altan, Mary Black… Irish music is really the soundtrack of my life. My dad, who passed away in 2023, was the beloved host of a WGBH radio show for my entire life. He was constantly exposing me to new Celtic music, and pointing out connections between the music of Ireland and the music of Appalachia. I feel so fortunate to have been endlessly encouraged by both of my parents.
Tell us a little bit more about your choice to cover Springsteen’s Nebraska – what does this record mean to you?
I have always loved Springsteen’s ability to tell a story. Nebraska is a collection of songs that dissects the true essence of America – the misfits, the lovers, the family dynamics and trials – performing it every night was an emotional roller coaster but ultimately one that I was thrilled to ride.
Where were you when you heard the news of your GRAMMY nominations?
I was out for a run in my leafy neighborhood in Orlando, FL. I looked down at my phone and saw a FaceTime coming in from my management team so I picked up. Needless to say, I was shocked!
And thinking back to your previous nomination in 2022 for the album “Age of Apathy” – what was your first GRAMMY awards experience like?
I first attended the Grammys in 2002 – my boyfriend at the time was nominated for Best Traditional Folk Album, and I was his plus one. It was in NYC that year, and a total blast for 19-year-old me. The second time was 18 years later, when I was lucky enough to perform on the pre-telecast with my band I’m With Her. We ended up winning for Best American Roots Song, and sharing that moment with Sara and Sarah was unbelievably special. In 2023, we had an absolute blast attending for Age of Apathy. So many friends were there!
Could you tell us a little bit about the creative process in the early stages of conceiving of your GRAMMY nominated record “All My Friends”?
In 2019, I was asked to create a new piece of music inspired by the passage of the 19th Amendment, which gave women the right to vote in America. Despite the challenges presented by Covid, I was somehow able to get it together to create the first 5 song suite in time to premiere in Orlando, FL, in the spring of 2021. At that point, I didn’t quite imagine it turning into a full album, but we recorded the basic tracks anyway, just to have. A few years passed, and The FreshGrass Foundation generously provided a secondary commission for new music, inspiring me to finish the album with 4 additional songs. I was deeply inspired by The Woman’s Hour, a book by Elaine Weiss, chronicling the life and work of Carrie Chapman Catt, among others. Catt was a leader in the suffrage movement and her spirit became my guide and friend throughout the writing process.
Who are you most excited to see at the GRAMMYs in February?
I don’t think they’ve announced the performers yet, but fingers crossed for Chappell Roan and Sabrina Carpenter. Two incredible pop artists who will definitely stand the test of time.
Do you have a ‘pre-awards-ritual’?
The last time I was getting ready for the Grammys, someone brought me the best breakfast burrito of my life and I’m hoping to recreate that experience next month.