I first heard Eric Bogle in the 80's when I was in my teens (fave back then No Man's Land;now Singing the Spirit Home) and that was probably my epiphany. Although growing up with Irish trad and folk music we didn't appreciate it as kids,but I have learnt sense now! BTW I'm seeing Eric Bogle TONIGHT!!!Through Eric I got to hear and love Stan Rogers,Christy Moore, Mary Black and The Pogues. How eclectic is that!
-Another moment was when I read BOUND FOR GLORY as well, again in my teens. I have just re-read it and am in awe all over again.
-There are lots of others of course - like hearing Gemma Hayes sing 'Ae Fond Kiss' in a movie, that got me started on Burns; the first time I heard 'Alice's Restaurant'; oh theres's just too many moments...
Cheers,
Quokka