Cherishing the Gentle Romance of Have I Told You Lately by Daniel O’Donnell & Majella O’Donnell (2007)
There’s a rare and beautiful alchemy when Daniel O’Donnell pairs his voice with that of his wife, Majella O’Donnell, and their 2007 duet Have I Told You Lately is a perfect example of this magic. This song, a heartfelt rendition of Van Morrison’s classic, radiates warmth, devotion, and quiet joy, making it a treasure for those who appreciate music that speaks to the soul—particularly an older audience with a taste for timeless melodies. Recorded as part of Daniel’s album Can You Feel the Love, this duet transforms the original into a tender conversation between two people who’ve built a life together, offering a sound that’s as comforting as a well-worn favorite sweater. It’s a piece that invites listeners to pause and reflect on the simple, enduring power of love.
Have I Told You Lately is a gentle ballad, its roots in Morrison’s 1989 composition reshaped here with a country-infused tenderness that suits Daniel and Majella’s voices perfectly. Daniel’s smooth, reassuring tenor flows alongside Majella’s soft, heartfelt tone, creating a harmony that feels effortless and true. The lyrics—“Have I told you lately that I love you, have I told you there’s no one else above you”—carry a sincere gratitude, a sentiment that resonates deeply with those who’ve lived long enough to know that love grows richer with time. Their delivery is unhurried, almost conversational, as if they’re sharing a private moment that we’ve been lucky enough to overhear. It’s this intimacy that makes the song so special, turning a well-known tune into something personal and profound.
What elevates this version is the real-life connection between Daniel and Majella. Married in 2002 after meeting in Tenerife, their partnership brings an authenticity to the song that’s impossible to fake. Daniel, born in County Donegal, Ireland, had already established himself as a beloved figure by 2007, his career built on Irish folk and country traditions. Majella, a Thurles native with a warm presence, complements him beautifully, her voice adding a layer of gentleness that softens the edges of his polished style. The arrangement is kept simple—soft strings and a light guitar—ensuring their voices remain the focus. For an audience that values craftsmanship over flash, this restraint is a gift, letting the emotion of the song shine through without distraction.
For those with a mature ear, Have I Told You Lately is more than a love song—it’s a reflection on companionship. It evokes the quiet moments of a long-shared life: the unspoken understandings, the small gestures that mean everything. Daniel and Majella sing with a quiet confidence, their voices carrying the weight of years together while still sounding fresh and alive. It’s the kind of track you might play on a peaceful evening, perhaps with a flickering candle nearby, letting its soothing rhythm remind you of the people who matter most. Their rendition doesn’t try to reinvent the original but honors it, adding a layer of lived experience that makes it uniquely theirs—and deeply relatable to anyone who’s cherished a lasting bond.
Released in 2007, this duet came at a time when Daniel was a household name, his music a bridge between nostalgia and modern appeal. Majella, though less known as a singer, had become a familiar figure to fans through their shared life and later TV appearances like Daniel and Majella’s B&B Road Trip. Together, they bring a down-to-earth charm to Have I Told You Lately, making it a standout in Daniel’s vast discography. For those who’ve followed his journey—or simply stumbled upon this gem—it’s a song that lingers, a gentle reminder to say what matters most. With its timeless quality, it’s a piece that feels as relevant today as it did nearly two decades ago, a celebration of love’s enduring melody.
Video
Here’s a link to enjoy Have I Told You Lately by Daniel O’Donnell & Majella O’Donnell on YouTube: