Music at Maddens podcast from the snug upstairs in Belfast’s home of trad. Yarns, pints and laughs with well known faces from the trad music scene. Locals, visitors are all welcome to join in the chat - with Lynette Fay.
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Lynette Fay is back in the snug at Madden’s for Episode 55, joined by one of Ireland’s most distinctive and celebrated traditional singers, "Karan Casey".Karan chats to Lynette about her journey through Irish music, from growing up in Waterford to her time in New York and her years as the lead singer of "Solas", before establishing an acclaimed career as a solo artist.They talk about the songs and stories that have shaped her, the importance of using music to tell meaningful stories, and a life spent performing and collaborating with musicians around the world.🎧 Listen now and don’t forget to follow and subscribe to Music at Madden’s for more conversations from the heart of Belfast’s traditional music scene.
12 Oct 2026
The Banjo Besties: Damien O'Kane & Ron Block | Music at Madden's
Two banjos, two musical worlds, and one very special friendship!
This week on Music at Madden's, Lynette Fay is joined in the Snug by banjo legends Damien O'Kane and Ron Block, bringing together the worlds of Irish traditional music and American bluegrass.
From Damien's early days growing up in a musical family in Coleraine to Ron's journey from a California music shop to playing alongside Alison Krauss & Union Station, the pair share the stories behind their lifelong love of the banjo.
They chat about how their unlikely musical partnership began, the making of their three albums, the magic of recording live, and why two banjos are better when they're cooperating rather than duelling!
There's plenty of laughter along the way, but also some honest reflections on the changing music industry, the challenges of streaming, the importance of supporting musicians, and the family, friendships and experiences that have shaped their careers.
A conversation full of music, memories, laughter and a whole lot of banjo!
🎶 Music at Madden's – wholesome chats with members of the traditional music family from Ulster and beyond.
New episodes every Monday.
🎧 Listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
📺 Watch the full conversation on YouTube.
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5 Oct 2026
Music at Maddens #59 | Terry Conlon | From the Céilí Band to The Pig Gig
Music at Madden’s - On the Road!
Recorded in The Pig Gig in Cullyhanna, South Armagh, Lynette sits down with musician, entertainer and the man behind the venue, Terry Conlon. Terry takes us right back to where his musical life began - joining a local marching band as a young lad, falling in love with the accordion and learning his craft from some of the great characters and musicians of an older generation. From céilí bands and Fleadh sessions to his years playing with Belfast folk band Thatch and, later, Raglan, Terry reflects on a lifetime of gigs, tunes, stories and unforgettable nights. At the heart of it all is Terry’s belief that music is about more than simply playing the right notes. It’s about the people in the room, the energy between performer and audience, and making sure everyone leaves with a smile on their face. We also hear the unlikely story of The Pig Gig itself; beginning with a gig in a hay shed to raise money for his son’s band, before growing into a unique grassroots venue and community space that has welcomed musicians, singers and audiences from across Ireland. A conversation packed with stories, characters and plenty of craic, celebrating the music, community and sense of place that make South Armagh special.
Brought to you in partnership with Gaelphobal Ard Mhacha Theas.
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