Over four decades years after Dr. Maya Angelou's iconic poem 'Phenomenal Woman' was first published, multi-disciplinary artist Deirdre Murphy has breathed powerful new life into the piece, with a brilliant neo-folk arrangement released as a new single, 'Phenomenally Women'.

Drawing inspiration from the likes of Sylvan Esso and Aldous Harding, the track is rooted in themes of inspiration and solidarity – and is released in collaboration with Caged Bird Legacy, the organisation responsible for Maya Angelou’s estate.

The original 1978 poem speaks of the inner strength, conviction, and beauty with which women carry themselves – themes that continue to resonate with a new generation today.

Originally from Alaska, Deirdre Murphy is a musician, singer, choreographer, dancer, playwright, and sartorial adventurer. She travelled throughout the US, collecting adventures and stories, before relocating to Ireland 16 years ago.

Her seminal work of acrobatic musical theatre, Capitalism: The Musical – for which she wrote the music, lyrics and book – has toured Ireland and Italy, and has been translated into Italian and French. She has also created and collaborated on many original works of music, dance, aerial dance, theatre, and performance art; co-curated and produced three festivals and numerous performances; and has been featured in Oonagh Kearney’s short films The Wake and Her Mother’s Daughters. In addition, Deirdre performed at Electric Picnic, Body & Soul, and many other festivals with aerial performance group Guerilla Aerial.

Following the release of 'Phenomenally Women', she also has two more singles and a highly anticipated EP on the way...

Take a look at the video for 'Phenomenally Women' below: