With a family heritage that goes back to the early 18th century in Witless Bay, Newfoundland, Con O’Brien is one of the province’s great musical treasures.

He is the only remaining original member in The Irish Descendants, a band that was at the heart of bringing the traditional music of Newfoundland to the rest of Canada and, indeed, the world.

The Irish Descendants are celebrating 35 years of bringing their impeccable musicianship and vocal prowess to the adoring masses. Along the way, they’ve garnered a couple Gold albums, a Juno Award, and handful of East Coast Music Awards.

As with many people in Newfoundland, Con’s family business was in the fisheries, and by 10 years of age he was on the payroll. He grew up intending to go to Law School, following in the footsteps of an uncle who was a lawyer for the fishery. Warner Music had other plans for him.

I spoke to Con in between show dates on the 15th annual The Irish Descendant Christmas Tour through eastern Canada.

theirishdescendants.com

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When We Wake with Con O'Brien, of The Irish Descendants