Musician and songwriter Mike Hanrahan, best known for his work with the band Stockton’s Wing, is advocating for a shift in how society approaches aging and professional retirement. According to Hanrahan, the forced retirement of older workers is “cruel,” as he continues to pursue multi-year projects in dementia care education and creative arts, challenging the notion that age should dictate professional output.
The Evolution of a Musical Career
Hanrahan’s career began in Ennis, Co Clare, where a music-rich upbringing led to the formation of Stockton’s Wing. The band gained national prominence in 1981 with the success of the song A Beautiful Affair. Reflecting on that period, Hanrahan noted the joy of receiving heavy radio rotation from broadcasters like Larry Gogan and Ian Dempsey. The band’s reach extended to supporting Michael Jackson at a concert in Páirc Uí Chaoimh, an event Hanrahan describes as a career highlight that demonstrated the band’s strong connection with Irish audiences.
Advocacy and the Future of Creative Arts
Beyond music, Hanrahan has pivoted toward dementia research and advocacy. Motivated by his mother’s experience with age-related dementia, he completed a fellowship at Trinity College, gaining entry through the university’s Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) process. His current work involves a four-to-five-year project with students from IADT Dún Laoghaire, utilizing virtual reality to create educational tools for dementia care. Hanrahan emphasizes that dementia should be treated as a condition rather than a “life sentence,” with creative arts serving as a tool for protecting human rights and reducing stigma.
Industry Challenges: Radio and Intellectual Property
Hanrahan has voiced strong criticism regarding the treatment of Irish creative talent by national broadcasters. He expressed frustration over the decision by RTÉ to replace long-standing signature tunes—including his own contribution, Over the Moors—with music from an English company. Hanrahan argued that such decisions undermine the broadcaster’s stated commitment to supporting the arts, noting that the move lacked “soul or depth.” He highlighted the broader struggle for contemporary artists to secure radio play, questioning whether the current environment makes recording new music financially viable for many creators.
Pro Tips for Career Longevity
- Embrace Lifelong Learning: Hanrahan’s transition from music to academia proves that formal education is accessible at any age through RPL programs.
- Diversify Your Skills: Moving between industries, such as from music to professional cookery, can provide new perspectives and resilience.
- Advocate for Your Field: Hanrahan’s stance on the use of Irish writers for national media underscores the importance of protecting local creative economies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mike Hanrahan’s current focus?
Hanrahan is currently balancing his musical career—including performances with Stockton’s Wing and Eleanor Shanley—with academic research into dementia care and virtual reality education.
How did Mike Hanrahan get into Trinity College without a degree?
He was accepted into his fellowship at Trinity College via the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) scheme, which accounts for professional experience and non-traditional learning.
Where can I see Mike Hanrahan perform?
Hanrahan performs regularly with Stockton’s Wing and in collaboration with singer Eleanor Shanley. Upcoming appearances include the Hibernacle festival in Rathfarnham and the Clonmel Buskers Festival.
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