ITALIAN singer-songwriter Paola Rossato has found a second home in Donegal.
Her latest single, ‘Rainbow Time’, isn’t just a song; it’s a heartfelt reflection on personal renewal, life changes and her deep connection to Ireland.
Shot across the county’s breathtaking landscapes, from rugged coasts to winding country roads and even Donegal Airport, the self-directed music video captures the magic that has drawn Paola back to Ireland 16 times.
“Ireland’s music, landscapes and people deeply inspired me,” Paola told the Donegal News.
She has just returned home following her sixteenth visit to the country.
Leo’s Tavern in Meenaleck is a place of particular importance, where Paola felt the weight of Irish musical history.
“I had heard about it for a long time and had already expressed the desire to visit it while I was still in Italy.”
“When I finally went there, it was actually a quiet night, with nothing special happening, but I felt something very strong. Seeing the history on the walls, and the connection to artists like Moya Brennan and Enya, I could feel how deeply music is rooted in that place,” she said.
Clubeo
“For years, I followed Clubeo online. I was also able to attend one of the events in person, and on that occasion I had the chance to introduce myself to Moya Brennan.”
For a long time, Paola dreamed of performing at Clubeo, but her previous job didn’t allow her the flexibility to choose dates and travel freely.
But after working for 23 years in a supermarket, Paola decided to leave her job and dedicate her life fully to music. It was then she reached out to those organising the monthly musical event.
Paola performing during last months trip to Ireland.
“To my great joy, the Clubeo team accepted my request, and I was included among the artists for the April 24 session.”
She planned her trip last month around the event. Then the sad news of Moya Brennan’s passing broke.
“It was a shock for me, and for all the people who had the chance to know her.”
‘Rainbow Time’ was released on the same day as her funeral, “In my heart, I feel that rainbow is also for her,” Paola said.
Personal connection
Beyond the music, Ireland has shaped Paola’s personal life as well.
She and Dean Zobec were married in Sligo and they chose Claddaghs as their wedding rings. For their witnesses, Paola called Dream Lodge Maghery, a B&B in Donegal, without ever having spoken to them before.
“I simply asked if they might know someone who could be our witnesses. Their answer surprised me deeply – they told me they wanted to be our witnesses themselves.”
Their stunning claddagh wedding ring.
Paola recalled enduring Storm Isha in Donegal shortly after the wedding, sitting with other guests at their B&B in rural Donegal.
“Outside, the wind was incredibly strong. The power went out, and we were left in candlelight. I picked up the guitar and started playing and singing with the others.
“That moment, the storm outside, the darkness, the candles, the music, the people, felt like something out of time. Something deeply real, and deeply Irish.”
Paola Rossato at the foot of Errigal.
This bond has even influenced her songwriting, leading her to compose in English.
“Every time I returned to Ireland, I felt a stronger and stronger desire to somehow belong – not just to visit, but to be part of that world, that culture, that musical language.
“That is why, at a certain point, I made a very important decision to start writing in English.
“Not because it was easier – quite the opposite – but because I wanted my songs to be understood there too and to build a real connection.”
“Over time, music became the bridge that connected me more deeply to the country,” Paola added.
When asked if she would consider learning Irish as well, Paola laughed hesitantly but didn’t rule it out and said she would consider a trip to the Gaeltacht in Donegal.
“Rainbow Time” is already available on all digital platforms, and the video can be found on YouTube. To discover more, visit www.paolarossato.it and connect with Paola on social media (Paola Rossato or Paola Rossato Music).