Music and whiskey are two things that have been intertwined for centuries. Both have a rich history, and their stories often overlap. From the Irish pub sessions to the blues clubs of America, music and whiskey have always gone hand in hand. In this post, we’ll explore the history of music and whiskey and their enduring relationship.
The Origins of Whiskey
Whiskey has been around for a long time. The earliest recorded distillation of alcohol dates back to the 13th century, and it’s believed that whiskey was first made in Ireland and Scotland in the 15th century. The word “whiskey” comes from the Gaelic phrase “uisce beatha,” which means “water of life.”
Irish whiskey has a long and proud history. It’s believed that the Irish were the first to distill whiskey, and the country has been producing it ever since. Irish whiskey was once the most popular whiskey in the world, but it lost ground to Scotch and American whiskey in the 20th century. However, in recent years, Irish whiskey has been making a comeback, and it’s once again becoming a favorite of whiskey lovers around the world.
Music and Whiskey in Ireland
In Ireland, music and whiskey have always gone hand in hand. The pub session is a time-honored tradition in Ireland, where musicians gather in a pub to play music and drink whiskey. The pub session is a great way to experience Irish culture and to hear some of the best traditional music in the world.
Irish music is often described as being “lively” and “upbeat,” and it’s the perfect accompaniment to a glass of whiskey. Traditional Irish music often features instruments like the fiddle, accordion, and bodhran, and it’s often played in a group setting. The pub session is a great way to experience this music in its natural environment.
Whiskey and the Blues
Whiskey has also played a significant role in the history of the blues. Many of the early blues musicians were heavy drinkers, and whiskey was often their drink of choice. Blues legend Muddy Waters was known for his love of whiskey, and he even wrote a song about it called “Champagne and Reefer.”
Whiskey has also played a role in the blues as a subject matter. Many blues songs are about drinking and the effects that alcohol can have on a person. The blues is often described as being “raw” and “emotional,” and whiskey is the perfect drink to accompany these emotions.
Whiskey and Rock and Roll
Whiskey has also played a role in the history of rock and roll. Many rock stars have been known to indulge in a glass of whiskey, and it’s often been associated with the rebellious nature of rock and roll. Rock and roll legend Lemmy Kilmister of Motörhead was known for his love of whiskey, and he even created his own brand called “Motörhead Whiskey.”
Whiskey has also been the subject of many rock songs. Songs like “Whiskey in the Jar” by Thin Lizzy and “Tennessee Whiskey” by Chris Stapleton are tributes to the drink and its effects.
Thin Lizzy and Whiskey
Speaking of Thin Lizzy, The band’s frontman, Phil Lynott, was known for his love of whiskey, and it often played a role in the band’s music.
Thin Lizzy’s most famous song, “Whiskey in the Jar,” is a cover of a traditional Irish song