Biography

So it is said… "Ceili" (say: KAY-lee) is a Gaelic (Irish) word that means "party," specifically one with live musicians, dancing and general merriment. "Coeli" is a form of the Latin word for "heaven." Rain is that stuff that falls from the sky. Thus, Ceili Rain is a "downpour of heavenly partiness."

The recipe for CEILI RAIN combines an innovative blend of pop-rock music with a dash of Celtic/Irish flavor, with lyrics meant to be both thought provoking and a bit uplifting too. The band is led by front man, Bob Halligan Jr. As a songwriter, Bob Halligan, Jr., has had over 160 songs recorded by well-known rock artists, including Cher, Michael Bolton, Judas Priest, KISS, Blue Oyster Cult, Kathy Mattea, Bob Carlisle, Rebecca St. James, Jump 5, David Phelps, Maire Brennan and countless others. He has published over 1000 songs and the tracks of these songs have sold more than 30 million units.

Their debut CD titled SAY KAY-LEE (1997) attracted critical acclaim from outlets including Billboard Magazine and other respected industry resources. Their sophomore project titled ERASERS ON PENCILS (2000) introduced them to the Christian market and they continued that trend with the release of NO YOU-NO ME (2002). It was in these early years that their sound was described as “Music that makes your feet want to dance, and your soul soar!” A mantra that stands today!

In 2004 CEILI RAIN released CHANGE IN YOUR POCKET found on the OCP/Spirit and Song Record Label and was distributed to the mainstream by Compendia Music/Koch Entertainment. This CD went on to win several awards and spawned 3 videos. One of the highlights of this release was their trip to Ireland where 2 of the videos were filmed.

CEILI RAIN has played some of the top venues in the country including Reliant Stadium, The RCA Dome and The Georgia Dome. They have played many key festivals from Kingdom Bound to CreationFest to World Youth Day. They have been invited to perform at numerous Celtic and community events from the Slainte Festival to the Bethlehem Musikfest. They have been hosted by numerous colleges and universities, and have played at major conferences including NCYC and Youth Specialties. They have even performed for a number of major corporate events. International travels have taken them to several countries including Canada, Belgium, Italy, England, Ireland, Mexico and others. Their LIVE performances clearly illustrate why they have been recognized with multiple UNITY AWARDS for “Group of the Year” and why they are embraced by audiences of all ages. With over 1,200 concerts under their belt, Ceili Rain has entertained audiences in the largest stadiums and arenas, to fine theatres and performing arts centers, to the most intimate of pubs and listening rooms. “Ceili Rain’s LIVE show is a feast for the ears and the eyes.” According to Halligan, "The most important thing about Ceili Rain is that our music celebrates life. This music strikes a deep chord in people, because it derives from a collective yearning people have for God, for spirituality, for home, for togetherness, for a voice. We are not here to serve a particular group of people. The joy, laughter and sense of fellowship that's felt at our shows is geared to everyone-all are welcome in this place. We promise you’ll feel better when you leave then when you came in.”

In fall 2006, CEILI RAIN released their 5th studio album titled, WHATEVER MAKES YOU DANCE. The first radio single to come from this CD was a powerful ballad called KNEELING. The song hit big on KLOVE Christian radio and peaked at 12 on the national CRW Radio Chart. The song was also a finalist in the International Songwriters Competition.

CEILI RAIN released their sixth CD project titled I MADE LEMONADE in 2009! With great anticipation and excitement this project (released as an independent CD on Mima Rekidz) was 100% funded and sponsored by loyal friends and fans. This was a wonderful way to celebrate with those who have supported CEILI RAIN and all the merriment that comes with it. I MADE LEMONADE will encourage you to Trust On-Love On-Joy On! I MADE LEMONADE recently was recognized as “Album of the Year” at the 2010 Kansas City Christian Music Awards (KCCM Awards), and as “Modern Rock/Alternative Album of the Year” at the 2010 Unity Awards.

And so it goes…CEILI RAIN shows no sign of stopping now! In 2011, along comes MANUKA HONEY, (often referred to by insiders as Lucky #7). Fans, once again, supported the recording and release of the project through private donations. “Manuka Honey” is known worldwide to be used as a healing agent for various ailments. Bob Halligan Jr hears music as a healing agent too, even in songs that “make your feet want to dance”. This may just be their most “commercial” release to date. According to Billboard Magazine, “These guys deserve to be heard by the entire world. Their potential is limitless because they have an appeal that knows no boundaries.”

So...Kick off your shoes, stand on a table, dance a jig and join CEILI RAIN as they carry on in their pursuit of heavenly partiness!!