Imelda May is a name that has become synonymous with the rockabilly revival in Ireland and beyond. Born Imelda Mary Clabby on July 10, 1974, in Dublin’s Liberties area, she emerged as a powerful voice in a genre often dominated by American artists. Her journey from playing the bodhrán in Dublin clubs at age 16 to sharing stages with legends like Jeff Beck and Elton John is a testament to her talent and persistence.
Known for a style that blends rockabilly with blues, jazz, and folk, May has released multiple albums that have charted at No. 1 in Ireland. Her personal life, including her marriage to guitarist Darrel Higham, and her professional milestones continue to draw public curiosity. While she remains active, fans are eager to know about upcoming tours and her financial standing, though much of that information remains unconfirmed.
Who is Imelda May’s husband?
Imelda May was married to Darrel Higham, a guitarist, from 2002 until their divorce in the early 2010s. The couple had one child together. Higham, known for his work in the rockabilly scene, was both a musical partner and spouse. Since the divorce, May has not publicly remarried, and her album 11 Past the Hour (2021) is described as her second solo album apart from her former husband.
At a glance:
- Irish singer‑songwriter, born 10 July 1974 in Dublin
- Genres: Rockabilly, blues, jazz, folk
- Known songs: “Johnny Got a Boom Boom”, “Mayhem”, “Should’ve Been You”
- Current status: Divorced from guitarist Darrel Higham; no official net worth disclosed; no 2026 tour confirmed
Key insights:
- Imelda May began performing in Dublin clubs at age 16, playing bodhrán, guitar, and tambourine.
- She fell in love with rockabilly at age nine, heavily influenced by Elvis Presley and Billie Holiday.
- Her marriage to Darrel Higham lasted from 2002 until the early 2010s.
- She has released at least six major studio albums, with Love Tattoo (2009) reaching No. 1 in Ireland.
- May won Best Female Artist of the Year at the 2009 Meteor Awards.
- She has appeared in films such as Gangster Squad (2013) and Wild Target (2010).
- Her official website and social media are the best sources for current news.
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Imelda Mary Higham (née Clabby) |
| Born | 10 July 1974 (age 50 as of 2025) |
| Nationality | Irish |
| Occupation | Singer, songwriter, multi‑instrumentalist |
| Former Spouse | Darrel Higham (guitarist, divorced) |
| Net Worth | Not publicly disclosed |
| Active Years | 2002–present |
| Number of Studio Albums | 6 major solo albums (including Love Tattoo, Mayhem, 11 Past the Hour) |
| Most Streamed Song | “Johnny Got a Boom Boom” |
| Official Website | imeldamay.co.uk |
What are Imelda May’s most popular songs and albums?
Imelda May’s discography spans more than a decade and showcases her evolution from rockabilly purist to a more expansive artist. Her breakthrough came with the album Love Tattoo (2009) – debut solo album, which reached No. 1 in Ireland and introduced her signature track “Johnny Got a Boom Boom.” That song, with its driving rhythm and Irish folk undertones, remains her most recognisable work.
Key albums in her career
- No Turning Back (2003) – Debut studio album with Blue Harlem.
- Love Tattoo (2009) – First solo album, No. 1 in Ireland.
- Mayhem (2010) – Also No. 1; nominated for the Choice Music Prize.
- Tribal (2014) – Expanded into pop and rock.
- Life Love Flesh Blood (2017) – Autobiographical, moving from rockabilly to torch songs and soul.
- Slip of the Tongue (2020) – A spoken word project.
- 11 Past the Hour (2021) – Her second post‑divorce album on Decca.
Notable songs and collaborations
Beyond her own hits, May has contributed a cover of Metallica’s “The God That Failed” to The Metallica Blacklist (2021). She has performed and recorded with artists such as Jeff Beck, Eric Clapton, David Gilmour, Elvis Costello, and Elton John. These collaborations underscore her versatility and the respect she commands in the wider music industry.
Imelda May’s sound is rooted in the rockabilly revival of the late 20th century. She often cites Elvis Presley, Wanda Jackson, and Billie Holiday as inspirations, blending their styles with Irish folk traditions. This fusion is especially evident in tracks like “Johnny Got a Boom Boom” and “Mayhem”.
What is Imelda May’s net worth?
Despite her commercial success and chart‑topping albums, Imelda May has not publicly disclosed her net worth. Online sources occasionally cite figures in the range of $4–6 million, but these estimates are not backed by official statements or verified financial disclosures. She has won awards such as the Best Female Artist of the Year at the 2009 Meteor Awards, and her tours and album sales likely contribute to her income, but precise numbers remain unavailable.
No reliable public record states Imelda May’s net worth. Any quoted figures should be treated as speculative. The singer herself does not discuss her finances in interviews or on her official channels.
Is Imelda May planning a tour in 2026?
As of early 2025, no specific tour dates for 2026 have been announced. Imelda May’s official website (imeldamay.co.uk) lists recent releases and live show bookings, but does not detail a 2026 itinerary. Her Instagram account (@imeldaofficial) directs followers to her bio for live show links, suggesting that dates are scheduled periodically, but none have been confirmed for 2026.
Fans hoping for a 2026 tour should monitor her official website and social media accounts. Concert announcements typically appear there first. At present, the only live events mentioned are earlier shows and festival appearances from previous years.
Where can I find official Imelda May photos?
High‑quality images of Imelda May are primarily available through her official social media channels. Her Instagram feed, with frequent posts, offers a mix of concert shots, promotional portraits, and personal moments. The official website also hosts a media gallery for press and fans. For archival photos, Wikipedia and fan sites often provide album covers and event images, but the most authoritative source remains her own online presence.
- Instagram: @imeldaofficial
- Facebook: /ImeldaMayOfficial
- Official website: imeldamay.co.uk (media/press section)
What is Imelda May’s career timeline?
- 1974 – Born in Dublin, Ireland.
- 2002 – Self‑released debut album No Turning Back with Blue Harlem.
- 2008 – Breakthrough album Love Tattoo featuring “Johnny Got a Boom Boom”.
- 2010 – Album Mayhem reaches No. 1 in Ireland and earns a Choice Music Prize nomination.
- 2014 – Album Tribal released, expanding her sound.
- 2017 – Autobiographical album Life Love Flesh Blood.
- 2021 – Album 11 Past the Hour released on Decca.
What is confirmed and what remains uncertain about Imelda May?
| Established information | Information that remains unclear |
|---|---|
| Imelda May was married to Darrel Higham; they divorced. | Exact net worth figure (not officially disclosed). |
| She has released multiple albums, including Love Tattoo and Mayhem. | 2026 tour dates and venues (not yet announced). |
| She maintains an active social media presence and official website. | Current relationship status (no public confirmation of new partner). |
| She won Best Female Artist of the Year at the 2009 Meteor Awards. | Details of upcoming projects beyond vague hints. |
What is Imelda May’s broader impact on music?
Imelda May is often called Ireland’s “First Lady of Rockabilly.” Her music consciously bridges American rockabilly and blues with Irish folk traditions, a blend that has brought her international acclaim. Beyond her recordings, she has appeared as a coach on The Voice of Ireland and performed at events like Bill Wyman’s 80th birthday. Despite commercial success, she is respected for maintaining artistic integrity and a distinctive voice in a niche genre.
Where can I find reliable sources and quotes about Imelda May?
“Imelda May has been performing since the late 1990s and is considered one of Ireland’s most distinctive musical exports.”
Wikipedia biography of Imelda May
“Her official website is the primary source for tour announcements and new releases.”
imeldamay.co.uk
The most trustworthy sources for information about Imelda May include her Wikipedia page, official website, and her verified Instagram and Facebook accounts. Streaming platforms such as Spotify offer her discography, but lack biographical depth.
What’s next for Imelda May?
Imelda May continues to tease new music. A single called “A Lick and a Promise” has been mentioned on her website. While no 2026 tour is confirmed, her activity suggests that new releases or live dates could be announced in the coming months. Fans should follow her official channels for the most accurate updates.
What is Imelda May’s real name?
Imelda Mary Higham (née Clabby).
When did Imelda May start her music career?
She began performing in the late 1990s and released her debut album in 2002.
Is Imelda May still married?
She was married to Darrel Higham; they divorced. Her current relationship status is private.
How many albums has Imelda May released?
Six major studio albums: No Turning Back, Love Tattoo, Mayhem, Tribal, Life Love Flesh Blood, and 11 Past the Hour.
What is Imelda May’s musical style?
Primarily rockabilly, with influences from blues, jazz, Celtic folk, and pop.
What is the song ‘Johnny Got a Boom Boom’ about?
It is a rockabilly track from Love Tattoo that combines driving guitar with Irish folk elements. The lyrics tell a story of a rebellious character.
What is ‘Should’ve Been You’?
A song from her album Mayhem, often noted for its catchy melody and lyrical theme of regret in a relationship.
Does Imelda May have an Instagram account?
Yes, @imeldaofficial.
Has Imelda May won any awards?
Yes, she won Best Female Artist of the Year at the 2009 Meteor Awards and was nominated for the Choice Music Prize.
Where can I buy Imelda May tickets?
Currently no tour is announced. For future shows, tickets will likely be sold through her official website.
Laura Pemberton is Entertainment Editor at readingwire.co.uk, covering celebrity news, film, TV, music, arts and culture.