LIKE many before him, historian, composer, and musician Diego Alejandro Jara Neguel – known as Godie to those in the know – first came to Limerick to improve his English. Like many before him too, he also came in search of inspiration.
Originally from Coyhaique, Chile, where he took his first musical steps, Godie is rarely spotted in his new hometown of Limerick without his guitar in his hand.
He describes his songwriting process as being instrumental to exploring and healing the inner self, and draws from a deep tapestry of influences including folk, rumba, ska, and pop. When in greatest need of inspiration, Godie calls upon a trusty cup of mate – a South American herbal tea – to help him reflect.
Looking back over the experience of moving to a new country and trying to put down roots, Godie reveals that the journey to Ireland has helped him build his confidence, both in himself and in his music.
Speaking on his own songwriting, Godie explains that getting his music noticed ina competitive virtual world is a high hurdle.
As an independent musician, who both composes and plays his own music, he is in charge his own promotions and management – and he does his best to rise to the occasion.
The Chilean musician says his experience in Limerick so far has been enriched by the kindness and empathy he has found at the venues he plays in.
“I have had the opportunity to play at the Milk Market, The Commercial, and Charlie Malone’s. In all these places, both the buskers and passers-by have welcomed me through opening a space for my music”.
Despite still learning the English language, Godie says that a linguistic barrier hasn’t stopped him in his quest.
“In my opinion, if a song is made from the bottom of your heart, there is no language nor cultural barrier that can stop the message you want to share,” he sagely shares.
He finds that his music and the messages in his sounds make it easy to connect with the people and the world around him.
Reflecting on his mission as a musician, Godie concludes that the “purpose of my songs is to send a warm hug to every person who listens to them”.
This story is part of the Tell Your Own Story (TYOS) project. Published monthly, in collaboration with the Limerick Post, TYOS shares the stories of Limerick people of all backgrounds and abilities in the hopes of encouraging unity in diversity. For more information, visit tyos.ie.
by Galia Xiomara Agudelo
