When Paddy Moloney formed the Chieftains back in 1962, his main goal was to perform the music of his native Ireland all over the world. Thirty-nine years and five Grammys later, The Chieftains have become synonymous with Irish culture. The band’s new album, “Water From the Well” (described by Moloney as “a musical tour of Ireland”), brings them to the Chicago Theatre Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. 175 N. State St., 312-263-1138. $28-39.
Q: It seems like The Chieftains have become sort of shorthand for “Irish music.”
A: It’s true. I suppose we were out there first, spreading the gospel about this great music, and, of course, as the musical director and founder of the band, I don’t think it would’ve happened unless I’d had the likes of the individual musicians that are in it. There’s a tremendous understanding between each member of the band, particularly onstage.
Q: And you’ve taken a musical genre that people might see as having limitations and done your best to push beyond them.
A: For me, I’ve always had this wonderful interest in music from around the world: good rock ‘n’ roll, good everything. I don’t want to be too much into the category of “world music.” It’s more than that for the Chieftains.
Q: Big plans for March 17?
A: Our usual haunt is Carnegie Hall . . . . It’s always a big night of surprise. There are always a lot of great guests around. What happens afterwards is hilarious. We do a royal tour of royal New York pubs and clubs. It’s always dawn before we hit the bed. We never have a concert on the 18th.
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