It is at this time of year, that once we again we can all enjoy the opportunity to listen to one of the finest xmas songs of all time, as it regains its place on local, national and international radio: "A spaceman came a travelin'" by Chris de Burgh. it also reminds what a pity it is that de Burgh does not receive the respect and recognition (in Ireland) that his obvious songwriting talent deserves. Songs like the above and "lady in Red" and "patricia" show he has song writing ability rivaled by few other Irish men or women. the lack of recognition he receives is surely not just because he is lacking in stature or unphotogenic nor is it just because he may not come across best in interviews. No, i believe it is because of the Irish need to put down our own. from looking through the discussion board we can read of the likes of Humanzi and Damien Rice getting slated. it is an irish thing that we need to put down our own and it is born in small town-ism and pathetic jealousy. (i must say though in naming the aforementioned band and singer, they are clearly out of their depth and could only be put in de Burgh's league if they are still around in 20 years). De Burgh is one of our finest exports, it is an indictment that that is what he is, purely an export. it is indicative of our small minded nature as a people, that we irish cant admit the great song writing achievements of de burgh and what he has done for Ireland. "peace and good will to all man, and love for child"