Cathie Ryan Band – Irish American Songstress

"...you will find it impossible not to be moved by Ryan's voice..." - Irish World Magazine

n a 2006 survey over thirty-five million Americans claimed Irish ancestry. Names like John F. Kennedy and Eugene O'Neill come to mind. Add to that list Cathie Ryan - named Irish Female Vocalist of the Decade by the Irish American News.

Ryan says, “For me as a kid growing up in Detroit, going to Ireland was such a gift. Going from an urban environment where there was a lot of strife at the time, to this bucolic, mysterious landscape…and also seeing my grandparents on both sides.” Her grandfather’s storytelling and grandmother’s fiddling would start her down a path as a singer, songwriter and bearer of Irish traditions that she carries forward with each new concert and recording.

Ryan’s musical career began in 1987 when she joined Cherish the Ladies. After seven years with Cherish, she struck out on her own. Her four subsequent solo albums reveal an artist of impressive depth, an individualistic songwriter and a preeminent interpreter of Irish music. Ryan says, “The wonderful thing about Irish music is that it gets into peoples' souls and psyches who aren't even Irish. I think it's because it's a music that speaks of the human condition. It is so rich thematically and historically. It is a music that is filled with pure emotion. I think the music still carries that life force."

Website: http://www.cathieryan.com/