Is there a better way to start out any St. Patrick's Day than with the gorgeous voice of Sinéad O'Connor? In keeping wiht my Sunday morning tradition, I will offer up some songs that are somewhat spiritual, starting with her cover of "I Don't Know How To Love Him", a song from the 1970 rock opera 'Jesus Christ Superstar'. It has music by Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyrics by Tim Rice. It is the song written for Mary Magdalene, who some might say is the original hooker with the heart of gold, taking a look at her feelings for the son of God.
The next song was also written in 1970, but under very different circumstances. "Rivers of Babylon" is a rastafarian song written and recorded by Brent Dowe and Trevor McNaughton of the Jamaican reggae group The Melodians. Dowe and McNaughton took inspiration from a few Bible verses for the lyrics, and wrote the music. Listen as Sinéad sings "Rivers of Babylon".
Both songs can be found on Sinéad's 2007 album, 'Theology'. The double album set, recorded in both Dublin and London, can be purchased from iTunes. To learn more about Sinéad O'Connor, including her tour dates, visit her official website.
