GLASGOW — American-born folk icon Peggy Seeger, whose music and activism have spanned over seven decades, says she would happily settle in Scotland—if only it weren’t so cold.
“I love Scotland so much, I would live in Scotland if it wasn’t for the weather,” the 89-year-old told the Glasgow Times in an exclusive interview.
Now in the final chapter of a remarkable career, Seeger is preparing to return to Glasgow for a special performance at Cottiers Theatre on May 15, part of her 90th Birthday Farewell Tour.
A Lifelong Love Affair With Scotland
Seeger, whose folk legacy has deep roots in both the U.S. and the UK, first fell for Scotland in 1956, on a motor scooter journey from London to the Highlands.
“I decided to go on a motor scooter from London to the top of Scotland. I got as far as Aberdeen,” she laughed.
Since that first visit, the folk singer has made dozens of trips to Glasgow, praising Scotland’s musical traditions and cultural warmth—if not its climate.
“I love Scotland’s songs, the way the language shifts as you cross the border. I love everything but the weather—it’s too cold.”
90th Birthday, New Album, Final Tour
The Glasgow concert will follow the release of Seeger’s new album, Teleology, due out on May 2. The tour will feature a mix of new material and classic songs from her expansive back catalogue.
“I’m going to revive some songs from the past, as well as some that my sons feel we really should do – which I absolutely agree with,” she said.
Joining her on stage will be Neill and Calum MacColl, her sons with late husband and legendary folk songwriter Ewan MacColl—best known for penning “Dirty Old Town” and “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face,” a song he wrote for Seeger that later became a global hit for Roberta Flack.
“Going on the road with my sons is always such a pleasure,” Seeger shared.
From Protest to Legacy
Peggy Seeger’s career has been marked by more than just her voice. As a songwriter and performer, she has long been associated with left-wing activism, feminist causes, and anti-establishment movements, with tracks like I’m Gonna Be an Engineer becoming feminist anthems in the 1970s.
Born into an elite musical family in New York, Seeger eventually made Britain her home, gaining UK citizenship and living alongside MacColl until his death in 1989. Their shared legacy continues in their children and in the generations of folk musicians they influenced.
One Last Tour, One More Scottish Night
Although this will be Seeger’s final tour, she expressed gratitude for still being able to perform—and especially for the chance to return to Scotland.
“It’s really special for me to be able to tour, especially to do it with my sons. I’m really grateful, but after 70 years touring, it is time that I stopped now.”
Tickets for Peggy Seeger’s Glasgow show on May 15 at Cottiers Theatre can be booked:
-
Online [link]
-
Box Office: 0141 357 4000
-
WhatsApp: 07941 673 035
