“Weapons of Mass Distraction” by RoJ LiGht (RoJ Whelan)

The RoJ LiGht, AKA RoJ Whelan, retired from a promising career in International cricket with Ireland in 2007 to pursue his musical ambitions.

As a cricketer, he travelled all over the world and famously bowled out Sachin Tendulkar, the Indian generally recognized as the leading batsman of all time. As well as recording extensively with his band he set up a production company and dived headfirst into the world of activism. He has produced award winning documentary films and worked with some of the leading organizations in Ireland and abroad who fight for justice, peace and the environment. He was one of the leaders of the campaign to free US army whistle-blower Chelsea Manning and went on to befriend her mother after writing a song about the Welsh-born former soldier. He also recorded a version of Bob Dylan’s ‘Masters Of War’ which has currently clocked up over 193,000 views on YouTube

Whelan’s new album is heavily inspired by The Beatles and in particular John Lennon along with the Dubliners and Luke Kelly. He also befriended ‘Fields Of Athenry’ songwriter Pete St. John in the years before his death in March. “I believe the energy that songs carry can be used as a force of good in the world, music is like an amazing communicator gifted to us from a higher power. I believe songs can change the world because they changed my world and I’ve never been the same since.”

“I feel there aren’t enough artists speaking out against the established powers and giving a voice to the working class, the oppressed and those in need. In this over globalized and corporatized world, there’s a very real danger that we lose what’s really important to all of us. The average everyday person is what makes this world go around in every sense. And what’s important to us is love, connection, health, family, friends, and community. I believe a small gesture of kindness can change a person’s life in a very profound and positive way and that’s what I base my philosophy on.”

‘The Age Of Sovereignty’ is out now along with The RoJ LiGhts remastered back catalogue available on all streaming services.