Isle of Hope, Isle of Tears

This song was inspired by Brendan’s first visit to the United States in 1995. It tells the story of an Irish girl, Annie Moore, who was the first to step ashore when Ellis Island opened as an immigration centre on the first day of January 1892.

The original demo of the song was by Cathy Jordan, which led to recordings by many artists, including Seán & Dolores Keane and later, the Irish Tenors, who performed it in the Great Hall of Ellis Island. Ronan Tynan sang it at Annie’s newly discovered gravesite at Calvary Cemetery, Brendan said “it was a great privilege to be present on that occasion”. 

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Praise for Isle of Hope, Isle of Tears

“‘The album opens with one of Graham’s all-time classics, Isle of Hope, Isle of Tears”

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— Irish Music Magazine (Review of Storybook Album)

“‘This uplifting anthem is a tribute to Ellis Island and to those who risked everything to make their way to the great city that was built by immigrants from the world over.”

-Hal Leonard Corporation