Born on 17th June 1962 in Northern Ireland, Martin Christopher Kennedy, better known as Bap Kennedy, grew up in Belfast during a time of political unrest known as The Troubles. He was the son of Jim and Lily Kennedy and the older brother of fellow singer and songwriter Brian Kennedy. Despite the difficult circumstances surrounding him, Kennedy found solace in music from a young age.
In his teens and early twenties, Kennedy played with the punk group Sellout and the power pop band 10 Past 7. However, it was in the late 1980s when he rose to prominence after founding a band called Energy Orchard. Serving as the band's frontman, rhythm guitarist, and primary songwriter, Kennedy showcased his talent and passion for music.
Kennedy's solo career took off with the release of his debut album, "Domestic Blues," which was met with critical acclaim. Known for his versatile style that combines elements of folk, rock, blues, soul, Americana, and country, Kennedy continued to release several solo albums, including "The Sailor's Revenge" and "Let's Start Again." His music resonated with audiences around the world, earning him a loyal fan base.
Throughout his career, Kennedy collaborated with renowned musicians such as Van Morrison, Mark Knopfler, and Steve Earle. His ability to blend his unique sound with the styles of other artists further solidified his reputation as a versatile and respected musician in the industry.
One interesting fact about Kennedy is that his solo album "Howl On" was inspired by NASA's Apollo program, showcasing his creativity and innovative approach to music. This album was a testament to Kennedy's willingness to explore new themes and experiment with different sounds.
Kennedy was married to Brenda Boyd and became the stepfather of Kenneth Hall and Christine Elliott. Despite facing personal challenges, Kennedy remained dedicated to his music and continued to channel his experiences into his songwriting, creating music that was both personal and relatable to his audience.
Throughout his career, Bap Kennedy left a lasting impact on the music industry with his unique style and heartfelt lyrics. His music continues to inspire and resonate with fans around the world, showcasing the timeless quality of his artistry. Kennedy's contributions to folk, rock, blues, soul, Americana, and country music genres will be remembered for years to come, solidifying his legacy as a talented and influential musician.