A Revolutionary Queen: Philomena Begley’s Use of Country Music Songs to Challenge Social Attitudes in Irish Society

Singer Philomena Begley (b.1942) is widely promoted as the “Queen of Irish country music.” This article critically examines examples from the early decades of her 60-year career that highlight her role in challenging attitudes toward women in Irish society. By critically reflecting on her recordings and autobiography, as well as information gleaned in an interview, the article details how Begley appropriated American country music songs with lyrics that resonated with an Irish audience and challenged the social and cultural norms of Irish society during the 1960s. The article focuses on Begley’s covers of American songs, “Blanket on the Ground”, “Truck Driving Woman” and “The Box It Came In,” using semiotic and cultural analysis to exemplify how artists construct meaning through song lyrics and performance. Performing songs written in and influenced by American society, Begley highlighted aspects of the lived experience of women in Ireland and achieved iconic status in Irish country music. Drawing on Philomena Begley’s example this article demonstrates how legacy is created in Irish country music, and highlights the continuing relevance and influence of Begley on the Irish country music scene today.