I know what you mean, Bruce, with regard to the influences. My best friend for some 25 years, was an African American. He is my daughters Godfather. He passed away two years ago this July 5. Even now I find tears welling up in my eyes just thinking about him. Together we often explored the traditions and customs of our peoples. We also laughed till tears ran down our faces at the similarities of his family and mine, our grandmothers and grandfathers, the discipline meted out, the love, the cooking, the music. We had such an effect on each other, that Joe could affect a perfect Galway accent, and many of my mannerisms even today are unmistakeably African American, at least to African Americans. They are subtle things in speech, but they are there. My life has been so much better for Joe's having been in it. Even my singing has been touched by Joe and his family.

Dear Lord, but I miss that man. He was my chosen brother, and the richness of culture and family he introduced will be with me always.

Sorry for the digression.

All the best,

Mick