This popular rock band has taken inspiration from across Northern Ireland in various records, including I Think Of Home.The 2019 track, released as part of their latest album Reworked, explored the works of renowned Irish poet, Seamus Heaney, and mentions both Belfast and Derry by name, as well as referring to other cultural aspects of the country.Bangor-native frontman Gary Lightbody poignantly reflects on the memories and experiences that shaped his identity growing up in Northern Ireland, with plenty of lyrics sure to connect with local listeners.The song takes listeners on a journey through the landscapes of Northern Ireland, so give it a listen to see if any personally resonate with youplaceholder image
This popular rock band has taken inspiration from across Northern Ireland in various records, including I Think Of Home.The 2019 track, released as part of their latest album Reworked, explored the works of renowned Irish poet, Seamus Heaney, and mentions both Belfast and Derry by name, as well as referring to other cultural aspects of the country.Bangor-native frontman Gary Lightbody poignantly reflects on the memories and experiences that shaped his identity growing up in Northern Ireland, with plenty of lyrics sure to connect with local listeners.The song takes listeners on a journey through the landscapes of Northern Ireland, so give it a listen to see if any personally resonate with you

The Northern Ireland landmarks behind the lyrics of 10 well known songs

By Tyree Patton
Published 4th Aug 2024, 17:06 GMT

There's no denying that Northern Ireland is home to some of the best stars in the music industry and beyond.

Aside from the incredible talent grown in our wonderful country, Northern Ireland has also proven to be the inspiration behind some of the most well known songs we listen to everyday.

While Belfast takes the top spot for inspiring some of the great hits, Carrickfergus and the Mourne Mountains have also acted as the backdrop of a few recognisable tunes too.

Here’s a look at 10 songs inspired by various spots in Northern Ireland:

An epic and culturally rich song paying tribute to Irish history, folklore and identity, Róisín Dubh featured as the last track on Thin Lizzy’s 1979 album Black Rose: A Rock Legend.A medley of traditional Irish tunes and original rock elements, Róisín Dubh (which translates to "Dark Rosaleen" or "Black Rose") symbolises Ireland itself, representing its struggles and beauty. The lyric "Where the mountains of Mourne sweep down to the sea," is a direct reference to the mountains everyone in Northern Ireland knows well.

5. Róisín Dubh (Black Rose): A Rock Legend - Thin Lizzy

An epic and culturally rich song paying tribute to Irish history, folklore and identity, Róisín Dubh featured as the last track on Thin Lizzy’s 1979 album Black Rose: A Rock Legend.A medley of traditional Irish tunes and original rock elements, Róisín Dubh (which translates to "Dark Rosaleen" or "Black Rose") symbolises Ireland itself, representing its struggles and beauty. The lyric "Where the mountains of Mourne sweep down to the sea," is a direct reference to the mountains everyone in Northern Ireland knows well. Photo: unsplash

The inspiration behind Rihanna and Calvin Harris' hit song was rooted in the desire for a fresh and unknown setting that could capture the song's themes of love in urban decay. Seeking a location with authentic street credibility, the director of the video for this 2011 bop chose Belfast for its raw and gritty atmosphere. The decision to film in the city attracted significant attention, with scenes shot in the New Lodge and a disused warehouse, with these locations being chosen to capture the city's distinct and moody background.

6. We Found Love - Rihanna and Calvin Harris

The inspiration behind Rihanna and Calvin Harris' hit song was rooted in the desire for a fresh and unknown setting that could capture the song's themes of love in urban decay. Seeking a location with authentic street credibility, the director of the video for this 2011 bop chose Belfast for its raw and gritty atmosphere. The decision to film in the city attracted significant attention, with scenes shot in the New Lodge and a disused warehouse, with these locations being chosen to capture the city's distinct and moody background. Photo: Google

Carrickfergus is a touching ballad that tells the story of a person reflecting on their life and lost love. The Clancy Brothers reflect on life and regrets, wishing to return to Carrickfergus in the hopes of reuniting with their lost love as the song’s melody and emotional lyrics speak to feelings of longing and nostalgia. Carrickfergus has been covered by numerous artists over the years and remains a beloved and enduring piece of Irish folk music, cherished for its timeless beauty and heartfelt storytelling

7. Carrickfergus - The Clancy Brothers

Carrickfergus is a touching ballad that tells the story of a person reflecting on their life and lost love. The Clancy Brothers reflect on life and regrets, wishing to return to Carrickfergus in the hopes of reuniting with their lost love as the song’s melody and emotional lyrics speak to feelings of longing and nostalgia. Carrickfergus has been covered by numerous artists over the years and remains a beloved and enduring piece of Irish folk music, cherished for its timeless beauty and heartfelt storytelling Photo: Tourism NI Content Pool

Belfast by Boney M is a disco-pop song released in 1977 as a part of their album Love for Sale, linking its lyrics with the titular Northern Irish destination in a way unlike most.Rather than directly referencing the Troubles or the city's complex history, the record instead presents the capital in a more celebratory light, portraying it as a vibrant and energetic place. The song features catchy melodies, upbeat rhythms, and a joyful atmosphere typical of Boney M's disco-era sound and remains a popular dance track that captures the spirit of fun and excitement.

8. Belfast - Boney M

Belfast by Boney M is a disco-pop song released in 1977 as a part of their album Love for Sale, linking its lyrics with the titular Northern Irish destination in a way unlike most.Rather than directly referencing the Troubles or the city's complex history, the record instead presents the capital in a more celebratory light, portraying it as a vibrant and energetic place. The song features catchy melodies, upbeat rhythms, and a joyful atmosphere typical of Boney M's disco-era sound and remains a popular dance track that captures the spirit of fun and excitement. Photo: unsplash

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