Loah.Susanna Appleby
Irish singer-songwriter Loah released a stunning new single on Friday, January 31 in celebration of St. Brigid's Day.
"Gabhaim Molta Bríghde"was recorded in collaboration with harpist Cormac DeBarra at The Clinic in Dublin, and serves as both a tribute to one of Ireland’s most beloved saints and a reflection on the significance of the divine feminine in Irish history.
Sung entirely in Irish, this haunting rendition captures the sacred essence of Saint Brigid, a figure whose legacy is woven into the fabric of Ireland’s cultural and spiritual heritage.
Loah reflects on the song: “I learned this tune (words written by Tomás Ó Flannghaile) a few years ago for one of the first celebrations of St Brigid’s Day.
"Since then, with each passing year its mournful, beautiful melody has gripped my imagination.
"Once Cormac de Barra came on board for a performance at St Brigid’s Cathedral in Kildare, his masterful harp arrangement added something so hallowed that I am very grateful to have recorded.
"It’s a tune I love returning to sing each year at this time as we emerge into spring, celebrating the legacy of the saint and the divine feminine. It’s also a real honour to sing as Gaeilge, with the warm encouragement of Cormac.”
"Gabhaim Molta Bríghde" marks a new chapter in Loah’s career, following her dynamic journey as a singer, songwriter, actress, and radio host.
"Gabhaim molta Bríde" lyrics
Gabhaim molta Bríghde, iníon í le hÉireann
Iníon le gach tír í, molaimís go léir í.
Lóchrann geal na Laighneach, soils’ ar feadh na tíre
Ceann ar óigheacht Éireann, ceann na mban ar míne.
Tig an Geimhreadh dian dubh, gearra lena géire
Ach ar lá le Bríghde, gar dúinn Earrach Éireann.
Gabhaim molta Bríghde, iníon í le hÉireann
Iníon le gach tír í, molaimís go léir í.
Translation: "Praise to Brigid" lyrics
I give praise to Brigid, daughter of Ireland
Daughter of all lands, let us praise her.
The bright torch of Leinster, shining across the country
The leader of Ireland’s youth, leader of gentle women.
The house of Winter is dark, cutting with its sharpness
But on Brigid’s Day, Spring in Ireland draws near to us.
I give praise to Brigid, daughter of Ireland
Daughter of all lands, let us praise her.
About Loah
Loah—whose full name is Sallay-Matu Garnett—is a singer-songwriter of Irish and Sierra Leonean descent. Known for her innovative "ArtSoul" sound, Loah combines a wide range of influences, from folk and soul to African rhythms and jazz. Her previous work, including the critically acclaimed "This Heart" and "Sweet Sorrow" EPs, has earned her widespread recognition for her unique voice and ability to blend genres with grace and depth. Her 2021 project "I Will Rise Up" set 1920s poetry to music and was recently pressed to vinyl, further demonstrating her artistic versatility.
In addition to her music career, Loah is a prominent actress, with notable roles in the TV series "Kin," "The Continental," and "Conversations with Friends." She also co-hosted the popular RTÉ show "The Heart of Saturday Night" alongside Una Healy and played Mary Magdalene in the 2019 Barbican production of "Jesus Christ Superstar." Most recently, Loah performed on stage with Sting for "Narrative 4" in New York City.
Loah’s collaborations are as impressive as her solo work, with co-writing credits and performances alongside renowned artists such as Hozier, the Wainwrights, Lisa Hannigan, Paul Brady, Cassandra Wilson, and Fehdah, as well as appearances with the RTÉ Concert Orchestra.
With her debut album on the horizon, Loah continues to break new ground in music, theatre, and broadcasting. Fans can look forward to more captivating art, brimming with her signature sensitivity, fire, joy, and grace.