Ali Comerford
Kilkenny born multi-instrumentalist and singer Ali Comerford is the latest Irish artist to take on our Guestlist series and chat about the 10 songs that shaped her as an artist. 2020 saw Ali return to her hometown to record her own solo album which is due for release later this year. She released her first single ‘He Knows’ today so be sure to check it out!
A Case of You – Joni Mitchell
I think the first time I heard Joni Mitchell sing I was like woahhh what is happening here this is insane. She has this mad range that is completely astounding to me. But with this song, the lyrics “I could drink a case of you and still be on my feet” that really got me.
After the Love Has Gone – Earth, Wind & Fire
Listening to all the modulations in this gives me chills! It's so passionate and powerful. I always try sing along which doesn't always sound great...
So Far Away – Carole King
Carole King is a master song writer. The amount of incredible tunes that she is listed on is nothing short of impressive. When I moved to New York, I listened to Tapestry over and over again on the subway.
Jealous Guy – Donny Hathaway
He took this song and made it his. It always gets me.
Go thru Your Phone – PJ Morton
This song got me through the first lock down, I thought it was so different. What a thing to write a song about and still make it a hit.
At Last – Etta James
Etta James is an incredible singer but for me it's the string arrangement that makes this song so beautiful!
Angel From Montgomery – Bonnie Raitt
The lyrics of this song are just so good - “If dreams were thunder and lightning was desire, this old house would have burnt down a long time ago”.
Erase Me – Quinn Christopherson
I listened to this song so much when I was making the album. It's so heavy but beautiful. I can't listen to it all the time because it can really change up my mood but isn't that the sign of a good song?
Hindemith Viola Sonata Op11 no. 4
When I first played this piece it changed me and so it stays with me always. The first movement is so moving to me. It's my favourite thing to play on the viola.
Move on Up - Curtis Mayfield
Again the arrangement is incredible. Plus this song instantly makes me feel better about anything!
Ali released her first solo single ‘He Knows’ today so be sure to check it out! The Kilkenny native has pre-recorded an intimate live concert from the beautiful Ballykeeffe Amphitheater in Kilkenny which will be streamed from Facebook and Youtube today at 6pm, to mark the release of her first single. Be sure check that out as well here!
