Mary Coughlan

Mary Coughlan

About the show

Mary Coughlan is arguably one of Ireland’s greatest female jazz and blues singers, a true artist who has carved out a timeless and highly regarded career and a legion of devoted fans worldwide. Described as “Ireland’s Billie Holiday’ Mary has overcome childhood trauma, alcoholism and drug addiction to become a musical force like no other.

Whether you’re into folk, blues or jazz, you can’t fail to be moved by the emotional depth, expression and power in her voice, forged from an extraordinary life. To hear Mary sing is truly to be at the core of the human heart. 

Born in Galway, Mary Coughlan has built a nearly 40-year career blending jazz and blues with influences from pop, rock, folk, and chanson, inspired by artists like Billie Holiday and Edith Piaf. She rose to prominence in 1985 with her debut album Tired and Emotional, leading to major television appearances and international tours.

Subsequent albums cemented her reputation for fearless storytelling, often addressing difficult personal themes. Her 2009 autobiography, Bloody Mary, revealed struggles with addiction, abuse, and mental health. Despite these challenges, she continued releasing music and performing globally, including a sold-out Sydney Opera House show.

Coughlan has also worked in film and theatre, notably Woman Undone. Now sober for nearly 30 years, she achieved renewed success with her 2020 album Life Stories. She is currently developing an ambitious multimedia project reimagining Peggy Lee’s Mirrors.

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