Mo Gilligan's Musical Journey: An Intimate Playlist Revelation
Comedian Mo Gilligan has opened up about his deeply personal relationship with music in a candid interview, sharing the tracks that have shaped his life from childhood to the present day. The celebrated performer, known for his sharp wit and observational humour, delves into the songs that evoke memories, spark joy, and even those he secretly adores.
Early Influences and First Musical Memories
Gilligan's musical foundation was laid early, with his father's Rastafarian beliefs introducing him to the powerful sounds of reggae. Bob Marley's "Get Up, Stand Up" was a household staple, though Gilligan humorously notes the irony of hearing a song about redemption while being tasked with domestic chores. His first personal purchase was Ludacris's "Rollout (My Business)", bought from HMV in Lewisham Shopping Centre and played on relentless repeat, marking the beginning of his own musical curation.
Karaoke Classics and Lyrical Mastery
When it comes to karaoke, Gilligan opts for crowd-pleasers that ensure audience participation, naming Robbie Williams's "Angels" and Oasis's "Wonderwall" as his go-to choices. He recalls a vivid childhood memory of hearing Shaggy's "Boombastic" in a Levi's 501 advert during The Big Breakfast, a moment that cemented the song's lyrics in his mind, even if their meaning eluded his younger self.
Secret Loves and Party Anthems
In a surprising confession, Gilligan admits to a covert appreciation for the Spice Girls' "Wannabe", praising it as an "underrated banger" with clever lyrical bars. Conversely, he expresses weariness with Neil Diamond's "Sweet Caroline", a track he feels was overplayed during the last men's Euros football tournament. For party atmospheres, he recommends Giggs's "Talkin da Hardest" and Gala's "Freed from Desire" as guaranteed floor-fillers.
Emotional and Transformative Tracks
Music serves as both a calming influence and a source of inspiration for Gilligan. He describes Drake and Yebba's "Yebba's Heartbreak" as a life-changing interlude that provides serenity, while Jamiroquai's "Cosmic Girl" fuels his mornings with an escapist energy. On a more poignant note, Cleo Sol's "Know That You Are Loved" moves him to tears, showcasing the deep emotional resonance music holds in his life.
Final Farewells and Touring Plans
Looking ahead, Gilligan contemplates his funeral soundtrack with characteristic humour, torn between the defiant energy of DMX's "Party Up (Up in Here)" to discourage mourning and the dramatic flair of East 17's "Stay Another Day" enhanced with dry ice effects. Fans can experience more of his comedic insights firsthand as he embarks on a UK and US tour running from 28 January to 13 May, promising an engaging blend of laughter and personal storytelling.
