With the holiday season just around the corner, Celtic Thunder gave New York audiences a heartfelt reason to feel grateful for live music.
During their intimate Live & Unplugged concert at Sullivan Hall in Manhattan last December, the renowned Irish vocal ensemble delivered a soothing and peaceful rendition of Billy Joel’s classic “She’s Always a Woman”.
Unlike the usual solo spotlight on Neil Byrne, this time the entire group joined him, weaving their voices together in smooth harmony that elevated the performance to a new level of warmth and artistry.
Filmed before a cozy crowd of just over 300 fans in the Lower East Side, Live & Unplugged captures Celtic Thunder’s six principals—Ryan, Keith, George, Colm, Neil, and Emmet—in a rare setting far removed from their usual large-scale shows.
The relaxed atmosphere allowed the group to connect deeply with the audience, sharing fan favorites like “Mountains of Mourne,” “Brown Eyed Girl,” “Steal Away,” and the tender ensemble moment of “She’s Always a Woman.”
Neil’s soulful lead, complemented by the rich harmonies of his bandmates, drew glowing praise from fans worldwide. Comments flooded in, celebrating the “beautiful voice” and calling it their “favorite rendition” of this beloved song—one even said it gave them goosebumps.
Here’s what to know about “She’s Always a Woman”
Originally performed as a solo by Neil, the group’s collaborative take breathed fresh life into the piece, underscoring Celtic Thunder’s signature blend of traditional Irish charm and contemporary musicality.
“She’s Always a Woman,” originally written and performed by Billy Joel in 1977, is a timeless ballad that explores the complexities and contradictions of love. Known for its tender piano melody and introspective lyrics, the song has been covered by countless artists over the decades.
Celtic Thunder’s Live & Unplugged rendition at Sullivan Hall stands out for its intimate arrangement and heartfelt delivery. Traditionally performed as a solo by Neil Byrne, their unique version features the entire ensemble joining in smooth, harmonious vocals, adding layers of warmth and emotional depth.
This interpretation not only pays homage to Joel’s original but also showcases Celtic Thunder’s ability to blend vocal mastery with raw, unplugged sincerity—making it a standout moment in their concert repertoire.
