For Keith Harkin, music is more than a profession—it’s a lifelong journey marked by moments of pure inspiration. The former Celtic Thunder guitarist recently shared one of those pivotal memories, reflecting on the very song that first lit a fire in his soul and set him on the path to becoming a performer. That song is Thin Lizzy’s iconic “Whiskey in the Jar,” a track Harkin now revisits on his brand-new live album, In the Round.
A Memory That Sparked a Lifelong Love
“I remember playing a record when I was 12 years old,” Harkin recalls. “It was a compilation called The Best of the Irish, and it had loads of amazing Irish artists like Van Morrison, Gary Moore, Rory Gallagher & The Pogues to name but a few. I remember this ripping lead guitar solo intro on a song and being totally stopped in my tracks.”
That song turned out to be Thin Lizzy’s “Whiskey in the Jar.” For Harkin, the discovery was transformative: “It was like a lightning bolt sending a million volts right through my chest,” he explained.
A Song That Never Lost Its Power
Decades later, Harkin still speaks about “Whiskey in the Jar” with the same sense of awe. “It melted my mind then and still melts my mind today,” he admits. “I’ve been playing and listening to that song for nearly 20 years now. It’s a monster track. I love this song!”
That passion and reverence make his new rendition particularly powerful. Harkin’s version isn’t just a cover—it’s a heartfelt tribute to the song that shaped his musical identity and continues to resonate with him deeply.
In the Round: A Celebration of Connection
The cover of “Whiskey in the Jar” is featured on In the Round, Harkin’s latest live album recorded during his recent house concert tour. The project highlights not only his musicianship but also the intimacy and connection he shares with fans in smaller, more personal venues. Stripped of flashy production, In the Round focuses on raw performance and emotional storytelling—the qualities that make Harkin such a compelling artist.
For longtime fans, the album offers a chance to experience the immediacy of his live shows, while newcomers are introduced to his deep respect for musical tradition and his ability to make classics feel fresh and personal.
Paying Tribute While Moving Forward
Harkin’s career has been shaped by his roots in Celtic Thunder and expanded by his own solo projects that blend folk, rock, and singer-songwriter traditions. By including “Whiskey in the Jar” on In the Round, he bridges his early influences with his current artistry, offering a performance that’s both nostalgic and forward-looking.
The song’s inclusion also feels fitting for a musician who has always celebrated Irish musical heritage while carving out his own path. In Harkin’s hands, “Whiskey in the Jar” isn’t just a nod to the past—it’s a continuation of a legacy, delivered with sincerity and passion.
A Monster Track, A Lifelong Connection
For Keith Harkin, “Whiskey in the Jar” remains as electrifying today as it was the first time he heard it. By bringing the song into his new live project, he not only honors Thin Lizzy’s enduring influence but also invites listeners to feel the same thrill that once stopped a 12-year-old kid in his tracks.
And as fans press play on In the Round, they’ll find themselves sharing in Harkin’s journey—one shaped by inspiration, fueled by passion, and grounded in a deep love for the music that never lets go.
