Dolly McMahon was born and raised in East Galway into a house that was rich in folklore, history and music. Her father Martin had a stór of local songs and seanchas which he passed on to his daughter Dolly. After marrying Ciarán Mac Mathúna in the mid 1950s, she moved to Dublin and became a central figure in the traditional music and ballad revival in the 1960s. Her album on the Claddagh label ‘Dolly’ was a seminal release in 1966. Dolly’s style and repetoire has been an inspiration to younger singers including contemporary artiste Lisa Lambe. This interview opens a window to Dolly’s unique musical background in conversation with Lisa with whom she has developed a close relationship
