Seán Griffin

In December 2005, just an hour before going on air, Sean Griffin wrote “I’m in Love for Christmas” - a spontaneous love song for the woman who would soon become his wife. Twenty years, six children, and countless memories later, he finally brings it to life. In this interview, the former Ruffians frontman reflects on love, family, and the timeless joy that inspired his first Christmas song - and still shapes his music today.

You wrote ‘I’m in Love for Christmas’ just an hour before going on air in December 2005. What was happening emotionally in that moment, and how did it shape the song’s tone and lyrics? 

I had just met my future wife and was absolutely head over heels in love. We had just met in October, so this was going to be our first Christmas together. She was back at my apartment listening to the radio so I wanted something that was going to surprise her, and seal the deal. It worked. I remember overhearing my future Father in law speaking to someone and saying “ Can you believe someone loves our daughter this much?” I certainly did, and still do. We were married that April. 20 years and six children later we have been blessed.

Do you find revisiting a song written two decades ago to be therapeutic, nostalgic, or something else entirely? 

I always wanted to get a chance to record it, and finally getting around to it certainly brought back all of those emotions, and feelings of that first year, and that super idealistic love that 20 years on carries us through.

You’ve described the song as a ‘love letter’ to your first Christmas with your wife. How do you think love and memory intertwine in your creative process? 

They certainly helped inform my approach vocally and to connect to that. Also trying to tap into something that feels classic, and timeless and hopefully something that will mean something special for other people too.

After 25 years fronting The Ruffians, what was the shift like moving into solo work? Is the experience more liberating, vulnerable, or both?

It was certainly new territory, and a bit scary, but it has been fun and terrifying. Seeing my vision on these songs is incredibly gratifying, and I hope they will resonate with new audiences.

Your new album embraces a more mature, reflective sound. Was this evolution driven by personal growth? 

I hope it is. We try to continue to improve hopefully as people and artists. I’m very happy with what we accomplished.

With six kids and two decades of marriage, how has family life inspired the warmth and introspection of your music? 

It certainly is there for “I’m In Love For Christmas” for sure,on the rest of the record. I believe each song is its own little world and I’m trying to create a story and environment for each. It is still in some ways, very much its own thing that exists independent of that.

You drew inspiration from Lennon’s ‘Merry Christmas War Is Over.’ How do you see music as a tool for healing or social reflection during the holidays?”

I hope that everyone gets a moment to relax and unwind during the holidays, and that in one of those moments they think about how lucky they are. To have love and family, and realize how magical that can be and to want to safeguard what is really important. Hopefully yes, peace and love for all the world. Especially at a time as important as Christmas and the promise of the Christ child.

You’ve cited The Pogues as a major influence, one that blends seamlessly with your traditional Irish roots. Yet at the heart of it all is your gift for unmistakable storytelling. What was the creative process like in crafting the track’s lively energy? 

We tracked the song live. So there is an unmistakable energy that gets captured when doing this. Much like the energy of a good kitchen session or a pub sing along. The musicians were fantastic, and they all brought their gifts and energy to what we did. We rehearsed and recorded it the same day with a very fun and collaborative spirit that day.

What message do you hope listeners take away from ‘I’m in Love for Christmas’? 

Do you think the timeless essence of the festive spirit deepens its cherished meaning? I certainly hope so. I would like nothing more for people to make it their own, and for it to be something special to someone else.

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