ROOTS AND WINGS
Award-winning singer-songwriter Cathleen Ireland released her new acoustic album, Roots & Wings, alongside the patriotic single and accompanying music video, “How American Is That?”, on Friday, November 6, 2026. The releases celebrate the extraordinary individuals who have shaped American history while reflecting on Ireland's own musical evolution.
At the center of the project is “How American Is That?”, an uplifting anthem honoring the courage, ingenuity, compassion and sacrifice that define the American spirit. Through vivid historical references, Ireland celebrates individuals whose actions changed lives and inspired generations.
The song recalls astronauts Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin's historic moon landing, Native American Marine Ira Hayes helping raise the American flag at Iwo Jima, and the unforgettable image of three-year-old John F. Kennedy Jr. saluting his father's casket during the president's 1963 funeral procession.
Ireland also pays tribute to Captain Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger, whose emergency landing on the Hudson River saved 155 lives; Dr. Jonas Salk, whose polio vaccine transformed public health; and Dr. David Ho, whose pioneering HIV/AIDS research revolutionized treatment.
Civil rights icons Rosa Parks and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. are recognized for their courage in challenging racial injustice, while members of the U.S. military and first responders are honored for their service and sacrifice.
With its memorable refrain, “How American Is That?”, the song celebrates patriotism through acts of bravery, compassion, perseverance and service. The accompanying music video further brings its historical themes to life.
The acoustic collection includes three brand-new tracks produced by multi-platinum producer Ryan M. Tedder, whose credits include Ariana Grande, Jennifer Lopez and Meghan Trainor. Also featured are three previously unreleased recordings produced by acclaimed Pittsburgh producer Sean McDonald, along with selections from Ireland's earlier work with Pittsburgh bands theFIVE6 and Friday's Child.
ABOUT Cathleen Ireland
Cathleen Ireland, singer/songwriter/producer, has been collaborating with several different musicians for her entire adult life. Cathleen, along with 4X platinum producer, Dannyebtracks, was awarded Honorable Mention in the R&B category of the USA Songwriting Competition for her song Body For You. The song and the video Body For You were both Semi Finalists in the UK Songwriting Competition, another international competition, and were both given a Five Star rating. She was also a finalist in the International Acoustic Music Awards (IAMA) for her song, Love Is A Luxury. All of her nominated songs were produced by legendary Pittsburgh producer, Sean McDonald. Working with film director, Joe Chilcott, Cathleen’s music videos have been selected in over 70 film festivals across the globe. They have won 22 awards thus far. In March 2024 her video “ELEVATOR” was awarded the “INDIE” Best Independent Music Video for the International Music Video Underground Awards and her video DRIVE was awarded the Special Jury Award for Best Music Video of the Thilsri International Film Festival. Cathleen was previously the lead singer for Pittsburgh based bands, Friday’s Child (Awakenings EP 1998) and theFIVE6 (Last Minute Reservations 2012). Lately, Cathleen is also the founder and lead female vocalist for the Pittsburgh based band HOT WEATHER HOLIDAY.
On Cathleen’s recent project she worked very closely with multi platinum producer Ryan M. Tedder to create a unique sound that bridges groove shaking rhythms and catchy melodies. In addition to this project, Ryan has also worked with artists like Ariana Grande, JLo, and Meghan Trainor.
Cathleen believes in the power of music to connect people. Her vision is to create impactful songs that resonate with listeners around the world.
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