Name: Brian Grant
Email: brian.grant478@gmail.com
Date: 19th June, 2022
Comments: Would anyone have
photos of the Olympic Ballroom, Pleasant Street Dublin 2 inside or
outside original building not the office building there now. Thanks.
Name: Con Muldoon
Email: conmuldoonoil@gmail.com
Date: 18th August, 2020
Comments: Loved Maurice Mul(cahy)
as we affectionately known the Band .Went to see them all over the
Midlands and West of Ireland .The Temperance Hall Loughrea .The
Emerald Ballinasloe .The Ranch House Cummer .The Roseland Moate
,The Montrose Kiltormer ,etc etc etc .Loved them and they gave
such enjoyment to thousands of people .God bless them all and
Kindest Regards Conrad Muldoon . Ps Ironically now have a brother
whom we know as Maurice Mul ..
Name: Laurence O'Donoghue
Email: laurenceodonoghue@icloud.com
Date: 23rd April, 2020
Comments:
Walked and hitched all over Wicklow Dublin
Wexford and Waterford many a mile in 1960s what a
great time we had great memories well I remember Jay Byrne and his
band .Any body remember Leonard Power
and Jimmy Culbert, can’t remember what they called themselves.
Used to play in the town, Des Kinsell the Glen
Ashford, Barry’s Rathdrum
Name: Allan Thompson
Email: allancthompson@btopenworld.com
Date: 16th April, 2020
Comments: I have just
visited your excellent website which has brought back many happy
memories for me. I was stationed at RAF Ballykelly from
November, 1961, to July, 1963, and went to many dances in the
area during that time. The Town Hall and Agricultural Hall in
Limavady were the usual ones, although Fauquanvale was also
convenient. The Guild Hall (where I saw Eden Kane) and the
Embassy (before the sad fire) in Derry were also favourites and
we could stay the night in The Sailors Rest at reasonable cost.
The Strand/Top Hat Ballroom in Portstewart was a particular
favourite and I remember, on different occasions, seeing Mike
Sarne and Bert Weedon there. In 1963, I played in a band at
Ballykelly, with three other RAF friends: Geoff Cheers on lead
guitar, Stan Standring on rhythm guitar, Steve Carey on drums
and occasional vocals, and myself on bass-guitar. We were not
actually a showband - just a group of amateurs playing covers of
instrumentals by The Shadows, the Ventures, and similar groups,
and we called ourselves The Sonics. With the arrival of the
Beatles, we began doing numbers from their first album, as well
as versions of songs by Eddie Cochran, Little Richard, etc. We
began by playing the RAF Ballykelly Families Club on the
occasional Saturday night, and then the Delta All Stars let us
play a few times, unpaid, for half-an-hour or so when they
took their mid-evening break. We supported them at Limavady
Agricultural Hall a couple of times and they kindly let us use
their drum-kit and amplifiers which were more powerful than our
cheap little low-watt boxes. We also played at Fauquanvale on
one occasion when we supported The Dixietones from County Mayo,
and when we plugged into their amps, there was an almighty
humming sound. Apparently, their amplifiers were unearthed and
only had 2-wire cables which was quite unnerving each time we
touched our control knobs.
Good wishes, Allan Thompson (aged 77).
Name: Mick Coakley
Email: michaelcoakley@outlook.com
Date: 24th March, 2020
Comments: The Phoenix Folk Club,
Ballyfermot, Dublin 10. I was one of the individuals who organised
gigs at the Phoenix Folk Club from 1978 to 1986 (approximately). Any
memories submitted will be really appreciated. Email is
michaelcoakley@outlook.com. Regards, Mick.
Name: Brendan Ryan
Email: brendanedryan@gmail.com
Date: 11th Sept, 2019
Comments: Hi All! I am
looking for any old vintage music instruments / music gear that the
Irish Showbands or musicians might have used back in the day! I am a
vintage music gear collector and am happy to buy and will be
restoring old vintage music gear to give them a new lease on life
and keep their history alive! Do please send me an email if you have
any gear you would sell. Happy to travel around the country to
collect if so! Thanks all, and have to give a shout out to this
great site. Fantastic to have a place keeping the history of the
Irish Showbands up to date. Cheers :)) Brendan
Name: Doc Cartright
Email: doccartwright85@gmail.com
Date: 27th Nov, 2017
Comments: Hi, can anyone tell me
the name of the show band that was playing at the Star Club Hamburg
in
September 1964? I saw them and I chatted to them, but I can’t
remember their name. Doc Cartwright
Name: Julian Vignoles
Email: julian.vignoles@live.ie
Date: 31st May, 2017
Comments: Hi everyone, I'm
working on an in-depth biography of Rory Gallagher. I have been
doing a lot of work on what I call his formative period, the years
he spent in the Fontana and Impact.I would love to hear from anyone
who has recollections of him or the band? Julian Vignoles
Name: Shaun Bradley
Email: shaun13@icloud.com
Date: 30th January 2016
Comments: hi all, great to see
all the bands listed.. there is one missing..!! Bernie Torme,
a dublin guitarist..
hope you can track down some info for listing.. rock on..S.
Name: Evelyn Guilfoyle
Email: evelynguilfoyle22@gmail.com
Date: 12th January 2016
Comments: Hi just wondering if
any one would know how I could contact any member of the donal ring
ceili band ???
Name: James Murray
Email: jamestheduke@talktalk.net
Date: 5th January 2016
Comments: Gosh time flys when
you think back to1957 when I first heard dave glover showband in the
Arcadia ballroom in portrush for me it was to be the best time for
dancing and listening to all the showbands in the north and south i
still play records and dvds never get tired hearing the music.
Name: Patrick Hoye
Email: phoye2001@yahoo.com
Date: 3rd January 2016
Comments: Happy New Year to all.
Just learned that Joe O'Hehir (Classic Show band, Mullingar) passed
away recently .Joe was the lead singer/bass player.
Name: Geraldine Jordinson
Email: gjordis@icloud.com
Date: 25th December 2015
Comments: Late 50' early 60's I
was a great fan and friend of The Magnificent Seven Showband
from Derry and knew them all personally .I am married
and have lived in Canada for over fifty years ,look back on those
wonderful years , show bands and going to dances was our
entertainment, wanting to look and dress your best ...,kids of today
will never understand the wonderful times our generation had , was
wondering if you have a contact for any of them. Would be great to
get in touch
Name: Showband Joe
Email: showbandjoe@gmail.com
Date: 8th November 2015
Comments:
Well done to all the show
bands from show band joe Wexford. Joe Dolan was the best.
Our guestbook was inoperative from March to November for
technical reasons, it is now back up and running smoothly
(Editor)
Name: Benjamin banks via Nora Patterson
Email: Withheld by request
Date:
21 Mar 2015
Comments: Missed you lots when
your mum was alive went to lots of pubs with Chris and loved all the
chrac miss your a lot but still listen all our Irish music love you
all the Patterson's from all your family.
Name: Julian Guest
Email: Julianguest@hotmail.com
Date:16 Mar 2015
Comments: I am the son of Gus
Guest who was lead guitarist for the Horslips briefly in 1972. I
noticed that there is no photo of him in the "where are they now"
section, and if you like I can remedy this. I am sad to say that
unfortunately my dad is not very well and we believe he may only
have a very short time left with us He has always expressed his
desire to let people, know his situation and he often reflected on
the good and bad times he had with the band. I was way too young to
remember any of the stories or goings on that happened back in
those foggy days of the early 70's so any information would be
greatly appreciated by all of the family. Also if anyone has any
recordings or the like featuring Gus, do please let me know. Thanks
to everyone in advance. If you would like any more Information ,
please don hesitate to contact me.
Name: Dai Parkhouse
Email: Withheld by request
Date: 12 Mar 2015
Comments: played with the
Kingston showband Derry it was a great time to be a teenager /.my
own favourite bands would be a close call between The Capitol
and Johnny Quigley for top spot my favourite venue was
Enniscrone Co Sligo i think the gvenue was the Marine hotel but i
could be wrong. Continue with the good work
Name:
Alan Joyce
Email:
joyalan@hotmail.com
Date:
11 Mar 2015
Comments: Great site, Well done
and keep up the good work
Name: Bobby Forsythe
Email: bobforsythe27@gmail.com
Date: 09 Mar 2015
Comments: Heard Micky Quigley
had passed away i was in J Quigley all Stars 1960[62 Guitar. Micky
played sax .could you comment if the info is correct. Bobby Forsythe
Name: adair cowan
Email: kayadair3@eircom.net
Date: 09 Mar 2015
Comments: Has anybody got e mail
address of Jody Pollard ex Elmer Fudd as they used to play in my
fathers ballroom the Mayfair in Clondalkin ,fantastic progressive
group,have tried a few e mail addresses of him but to no avail. Also
any stories about the ballrooms.
Name: Liam Brennan
Email: soundmanireland@hotmail.com
Date: 06 Mar 2015
Comments: New Tweed Website for
anyone interested.
Editor's note: links to other websites are not allowed in
guestbook for security purposes.
Name: John Coughlan
Email: Limerick1@shaw.ca
Date: 26 Feb 2015
Comments: I thought I would have
seen some mention on this site ...........anyways just in case some
of your suscribers hasn't heard of this tragic accident on Feb 8th
Very sad news on the death Martin O Connor who was tragically killed
in Fort Lauderdale . He was a member of Declan Nerneys band and was
due to play on the Gertude Byrne's cruise. Condolenses to his family
and to all the band members.
Name: Mary
Email: Withheld by requewst
Date: 21 Feb 2015
Comments: My uncle played with
Fred Hanna and the Laganmen. He is the one in the photo with glasses
wearing a checked suit, his name was Ray Kerr.
Name: Valerie taggart
Email: Ureachvp@shaw.ca
Date: 12 Feb 2015
Comments: Used to know Franky
McBride way back in the day........would love his email if any one
has please. Val
Name: Brendan McGuirk
Email: Withheld by request
Date: 11 Feb 2015
Comments: Today Pearse Mc Kenna
passed away both Pearse and myself (Brendan Mc Guirk) played with
Hughie Trainor for about 7 years I think .In a couple of bands .One
being The melody Makers.Pearse was a superb musician who could play
all styles and he will be sadly missed
Name: Maura
Email: Mmoraghan@gmail.com
Date: 03 Feb 2015
Comments: Was just looking
through an old box of photos etc. found a quite old newspaper
cutting that May be of interest to Eileen Reid of the Cadets. Could
she please contact me at this address and I could send her a copy.
Regards Maura. Bray.
Editors Note: Unfortunately, this site has no connection
to any of the stars featured on our pages. Requests like this should
be posted in out free forum.
Name: Mario Ellison
Email: marvyn.ellison@sky.com
Date: 30 Jan 2015
Comments: Great to see this
picture of the Crypt.I remember traveling round Ireland with the
boys in the late 60 ies. Myself and Barry worked together in Norman
Fredricks hairdressers in Belfastin the late 60 ies Sorry to hear
about George. What happened to Sammy the roadie Mario (Marvyn )
Ellison
Name: willie lynch
Email: lynchwg@juno.com
Date: 26 Jan 2015
Comments: Hello Gang hoping all
is well, I just got off another Cruise out of flordia ( I do it ever
year). this year it had two New Irish C & W lads Mike
Denver & Patrick Feeney ?. Both of the,m very good. it was nice to
hear them do thier thing,......everyone still doing the good old
stuff. all is still good in the states NJ. willie Lynch Thanks
Jerry.
Name: cathherine mcgaughey
Email: catherinemcgaughey77@live.co.uk
Date: 22 Jan 2015
Comments: love
inndains from early age I grew this music my 2 older
brothers chatt this band Mum was great lover of
there music. Brian Coll know years Catherine
Name: padraig moran
Email: pm6000@hotmail.com
Date: 20 Jan 2015
Comments: would like to get a
picture of sandy Kelly band 1974 tommy mcdonagh past away yesterday
and I play with him for a few years cheers
Name: novalea
Email: novaleagerrard@yahoo.com
Date: 19 Jan 2015
Comments: I really like the
indianshow band.I would like to know if they have any cd's and where
I may find them in theUnited States.
Name: Debra daly
Email: Dalde07@yahoo.co.uk
Date: 16 Jan 2015
Comments: Hi guys, do you guys
have any live shoes for the 6th to the 8th of match happening??
Would e great to know thanks and regards x
Editor's note: Sorry Debra, this is an historical
website. We have no info about bands or their shows.
Name: anthony
Email: Withheld by request
Date: 06 Jan 2015
Comments: Hi just to let you
know The Pressmen (Coalisland) were originally the Carlos Showband
Cookstown before becoming Tony and the Pressmen I was the
trombone player in the band.
Name: Shanta miles
Email: Shantamiles@icloud.com
Date: 26 Dec 2014
Comments: Any information
regarding Jimmy Johnston showband particularly Warren Carson.
Editor's note: See the page on the band on the site
Name: Cyril Wikinson
Email: cyrilwilkinson@sunbeamhouseservices.ie
Date: 21 Dec 2014
Comments: One query here :- Is
Gregory Donaghey the singing star from Sion Mills Co. Tyrone
who used to sing with Eileen Reid & the Cadets and with which band
he had a couple of hit singles including a #1 hit ''More Than
Yesterday'' in 1966, the same guy who in 1979 became the
second ''Magic of the Magic Band? Cyril Wilkinson
Editor's Note: No, that was Cornelius Ward previously
with Geraldine and the Cufflinks from Donegal.
Name: Brian Whelan
Email: firebrandnew@gmail.com
Date: 10 Dec 2014
Comments: Some years ago about
1990, I was living in the US and lived for awhile in and about
Washington DC, while there I was in the Dubliner pub one Saturday
night where I noticed a man on the stage one night who it seemed to
me looked like Danny Doyle. I wento over to say hello and sure
enough it was the man himself doing what he does best. I dont recall
him singing any of his favourites but the songs the americans expect
to hear which was a pity. I bought some cassettes off him that night
(I can remember asking him do I have to pay him, he joked only a
Wicklow man would ask him that - I had a few scoups on my lol) I
played the songs afterwads and became fond of the music and ofter
sang Dublin in the rare old times myself, not as well as Danny it
must be said, fond memeries indeed! I have to say I was a bit taken
aback to see a fairly big singing name like Danny Doyle playing in
the Dubliner bar but it seems that is where the pay was life is
strange.
Name: Joan Gartland
Email: withheld by request
Date:
27 Nov 2014
Comments: I would like to add my
Mother's name Joan O'Neill {Godfrey} to The Flying Carlton
Drogheda members list She was their FIRST female singer and in the
photo of the Band on the steps of the Airplane she is the lady at
the top of the steps. I would love to have this on record for
future references. Thanking you in advance .
Name: Neil Hogan
Email: neilhogan@thelodge.net
Date: 29 Oct 2014
Comments: Hi there My good
friend from up the street, Cyril Wilkinson and I are becoming very
very good friends altogether and he and I would like to
know if there are any plans on the part of Seamus Moore to play here
in the Lodge once again he went down right well here back in August.
Neil Hogan @ the Hogan's Lodge Carnew, Co. Wicklow.
Name: Miriam Haverty
Email: mimob1@hotmail.com
Date: 28 Oct 2014
Comments: I would like to post a
post for my uncle ... Pascal Haverty from the CHessmen. Sadly he is
no longer with us but his talent and music will live on forever!
Name: Jim O'Connor
Email: jocrasa@hotmail.com
Date: 28 Oct 2014
Comments: Hi, just today I
learned of the passing of Nuala. A wonderful lady who was a
fanatical fan of the Royal Showband she brought mer to hear them in
Enniskillen one night over 50 years ago. A beautiful lady and a
great band.
Name: Niall power
Email: Withheld by request
Date: 28 Oct 2014
Comments: Las Vegas showband
line up 1975.Rob Strong bass,Johnny Murphy vocals,Ray Doherty
guitar,James Delaney keys,Brendan Bannigan sax,Kevin OBrien
sax,Niall Power drums.Kelley joined on vocals at Xmas 1975.
She left the band with Ray Doherty to form Kelley and Klass in 1976.
Mark Costigan joined on guitar and Anto long replaced James Delaney
on keys,the band continued as Rob Strong and Las Vegas until
breaking up on 1st jan 1978. 2 singles were released,All the loving
people in 1976 and More like the movies in 1977.
Name: Joe wildy
Email: joe@joewildy.co.uk
Date: 16 Oct 2014
Comments: Hi guys I worked as a
barman in the Pound Jazz club at the time you guys played there and
you were Fantastic. I now live in Blackpool where I have my own
band. God bless you all and thank you some Saturday afternoons
entertainment at the Pound Joe
Name: Peter Carr
Email: mrcarr5@gmail.com
Date: 11 Oct 2014
Comments: Have you got all my
emails re: my involvement drumming in all of the following:
Strangers Some People John Farrell Phil Lynott
Eric Bell Purple Pussycats Alice. also forgot to mention I was
a dj at the Apartment night club for a while as well and used to
call to Pat Egans home every Wed Morning for some promo records.
also used to catch up with the group scene members at the Coffee Inn
at Sth Anne St regularly morning times 11am onwards I met Phil
Lynott one time in 1976 and I had been in Australia for 2 years
(where I live now) and he waved his Decca contact at me. I was also
on Radio Sunshine as a newsreader until it was closed down in either
82 or 83 ??? Regards, Peter Carr ex of Walkinstown
Rathgar and Old Bawn
Name: Bernadette Dungan
Email: berniel59@yahoo.com
Date: 05 Oct 2014
Comments: My Uncle Frankie
Fitzgerald from Tralee played Drums for The Crowns and The Merriemen
showbands! Just wondering if anyone remembered him and his
bandmates?
Name: vince flynn
Email: vinceflynn272@hotmail.com
Date: 03 Oct 2014
Comments: Has Annybody
heard of Des Frettwell,Played a lot in seepoint in galway.Great band
(Editor's Note: Des is featured in our showband pages.)
Name: John
Email: Withheld by request
Date: 30 Sep 2014
Comments: I just found this site
while researching Dermot O Brien and his clubmen because I was going
through an old box of photos and found his autograph. He was quite
the celebrity... and I have his autograph
Name: Reena Heenan
Email: Withheld by request
Date: 17 Sep 2014
Comments: In the Irish show band
article, it is stated that Dave Heenan left the Arrows a few weeks
after joining. Actually, Dave worked with them in Ireland for 6
months.
Name: Gearoid O'Dowd
Email: Withheld by request
Date: 24 Aug 2014
Comments: Hello, I can give you
info on the following bands (all of whom I have been a member of:
Swingtime Aces, Philosophers, The Powermen and Billy Kidd and Rock
and Roll Circus. I'm suprised you have no feature on Dee
Layden and the Powermen as they were from Sligo.
(Editor's note: We have a feature about Dee on a
sister site:
www.sligo-ireland.com, but need more info to do a feature for
the showband site.)
Name: sean gilmartin
Email: seangilmartin@gmail.com
Date: 01 Aug 2014
Comments: Hi does anyone
know the whereabouts of Don Woods, bass player, the last I heard he
was with Mike Denver? P.S sean gilmartin(me) is now with The
Refections. Love the site, I always have a little reminisce every
now and then, keep up the good work, Sean
Name: alison
Email: Withheld by request
Date: 31 Jul 2014
Comments: I am looking for info
on Tony Coffey of the Caroline Showband. Thank you.
(Editor's note: Because you have chosen to withhold your
email address, I am not sure how anyone can contact you to share
info they might have....sorry.)
Name: Tony Donnelly
Email: Withheld by request
Date: 30 Jul 2014
Comments: With reference to your
picture of the 'Horizon Ballroom' in Mullingar, I admit that I am
not familiar with that name. When I frequented the dance hall in the
1960;s it was known as the ' Lakelands'. Best regards, Tony.
(Editor's note: Hi Tony, we also have it listed under
that name as well.)
Name: Angela Fitzgerald O'Sullivan
Email: oisino@mail.com
Date: 21 Jul 2014
Comments: Lovely website,
pictures are great,, my dad Tom Fitzgerald passed away on 06th July
and these pictures are so lovely to look at and to show to his
grandchildren, he loved the showbands and his music is living on in
his grandchildren. thank you for brining us the memories
Angela
Name: BridgetMckeever
Email: qsitzlerlm@yahoo.com
Date: 19 Jul 2014
Comments: This is a topic that's
close to my heart... Cheers! Where are your contact details though?
(Editor's Note: Our email is on every page)
Name: emma jane byrne
Email: emmajanebyrne78@yahoo.com
Date: 23 Jun 2014
Comments: Hi my dad tom is in
this photo. Please contact me
Name: Peter Carr
Email: mrcarr5@gmail.com
Date: 10 Jun 2014
Comments: The Some People pics
are not the original members exception is Niall Byrne who was with
the group when I played drums Bobby Bolton was on bass and Harry
Evans on Rhythm and Niall on lead. Fran Byrne was original drummer I
replaced him when he went to the UK. Pat Egan will verify this.
Regards, Peter Carr - now in Australia please let anyone who wishes
to make contact have my email address thanks
Name: Sean Hussey
Email: thehuzz@gmail.com
Date: 09 Jun 2014
Comments: Would dearly love to
know if anybody out ther has any information on Alan Roche from
Newbridge co. Kildare. He played guitar with the Grassroots and
Margo. We played togeather and would love to meet him or get in
touch.
Name: martin clifford
Email: big marty2011@hotmail.co.uk
Date: 08 Jun 2014
Comments: i think the late
margaret o rourke was the best irish singer of all and had the
privilidge of playing her cd home in ireland during my 12
years as the local artists show on icr/fm [ now closed] big marty
Name: Brendan Ruddy
Email: brendan@musicman.ie
Date: 06 Jun 2014
Comments: Hi, just a little note
about the picture you have of Dan O Hara and the Blue River, in the
picture from left to right is Terry McCormack, rythme guitar, now
living in England, John Taylor from Aughnacloy on piano and tenor
sax, Dan O Hara, lead singer and lead guitar, Brendan Ruddy on bass,
now owns Musicman music store in Cavan and Frankie Gallagher on
Drums, the photo was taken one night in the Patrician Hall
Carrickmore, about 1979, Harry Leonard on piano was not present for
the photo which I think cost him his job in the band!
Name: Margaret & Steve
Email: paddyriley1948@talktalk.net
Date: 04 May 2014
Comments: Hiya Tony &
Charlie..Colton Mill Boys!!! Tony & Charlie!! 1983.. You used to
visit us at RAF Lakenheath.. Remember Ivy & Stew?? Plenty of booze!!
We visited you in Palmerstown about 1983!!
(Editor's note: Unfortunately, the guestbook is not read
by members of individual bands. A better place to interact is our free
forum. Link at the top of every page of the site.)
Name: Jack Anthony ( aka Tony Garrett )
Email: Withheld by request
Date: 04 May 2014
Comments: Been lovely to
remenisce, looking at the site. I was guitar vocalist in the
Kings Show Band in the 1970s -great times and good memories of
working in Ireland with the boys- great audiences. Opportunity
Knocks was daunting but life changing experience for us
all.Tried to find a copy of the show but not available. Would be
nice to show my grandchildren. Now retired and living on the Fylde
coast in Lancashire- still enjoy singing and playing my guitar
Name: John Maguire
Email: gussiemaguire@gmail.com
Date: 29 Apr 2014
Comments: Great site! The
drummer in the Goldentones (forerunner of The Casino and Indians
Showband) is - hopefully not "was" - Willy Elliott. I also think
that Shay O'Reilly (R.I.P) in that Goldentones photo may in fact be
Ray Rothery, although I may be mistaken. I would love to hear from
any of the people in that pic. as well as the Woodfull brothers.
R.I.P. also Nick McEvoy.
Name: Paul Clarke
Email: paulgcalrke@hotmail.com
Date: 26 Apr 2014
Comments: I am trying to contact
any singers, groups that entertained the troops in Lebanon over the
years with a view to attending an event in July this year, if anyone
is interested, please contact me at the email above. regards
Paul Clarke
Name: Joe O'Kelly
Email: joeokelly28@gmail.com
Date: 22 Apr 2014
Comments: looking for anything
on paddy Macaffertys Show band..From Stranorlar/ Ballybofey...County
Donegal.Photos anything, if any body has any info, Please send
me an email.
Name: Vincent Soye
Email: vsoye015@aol.com
Date: 22 Apr 2014
Comments: Hi. I'm Vincent Soye
from the outskirts of Hillsborough County Down. I performed with The
Western Rockies during their existence around the late sixties early
seventies. The members of the band pictured were: Front left: Peter
McDonnell. Front centre Maurice Soye (R.I.P). Front right Desmond
McDonnell. Back left: Patrick Loughran. Back centre: Gregory McCann
(R.I.P). Back right: Vincent Soye. This is from the late
sixties, early seventies. Our manager then was Tommy Egerton from
Enniskilleen.
Name: Willie price
Email: Withheld by request
Date: 28 Mar 2014
Comments: John l Sullivan was
working in a record shop in Liffey St in the seventys mike
Munro was running a pub in black rock around the same time anybody
any news on them or other members of the band
Name: Mickey Mason
Email: mickeymasonlkny@gmail.com
Date: 24 Mar 2014
Comments: Hi. I was really
surprised but delighted to see a photo of Celtic rock
band 'Catweazle' in which I played keys, mandolin and flute in the
mid 70's. The band hailed from Derry and the members in the photo
from left to right are Raymond O' Doherty, Cahir O' Doherty, (no
relation) myself and Paul Lorrimer. We frequently played support to
Horslips when they performed in the Derry area at venues such as
Borderland and St Columb's Hall. Really kind guys who let us use
their gear and made sure the sound was good for us. Great memories.
This site is a brilliant idea.
Name: seamus kelly
Email: Withheld by request
Date: 21 Mar 2014
Comments: hi everyone great site
Name: sean mckenna
Email: Withheld by request
Date: 20 Mar 2014
Comments: now residing in
nottinghamshire whenidanced at the ranfurley indungannon andswan
park monaghan the clippertones andmighty avons were my favourites
ithink the lead singer name was jimmy in the clippertones many
hours were spent thumbing trying to get to these dances tosee them
when ilived in aughnacloy. very easy to dance to
Name: Frank Doyle
Email: francodoyle21@eircom.net
Date: 03 Mar 2014
Comments: Hi, I played Bass
guitar with Jim Farley for a number of years and it is a great idea
to have this guestbook for people to pass on info re people who they
have interacted during the Showband era.
(Editor's note: a better place to interact is our free
forum. Link at the top of every page of the site.)
Name: John Rodgers
Email: jonnierodgers@gmail.com
Date: 01 Mar 2014
Comments: I had the good fortune of
watching these guys practice for me they will always be the best
Millbrook was great and so was the old factory canteen!!! John
Name: Elizabeth
Email: elizabethfarrelly@hotmail.co.uk
Date: 26 Feb 2014
Comments: I wish to announce
that I am Mandy that sang with the Gallowglass Ceili Band in 1971. I
was the tender age of 15. My first record with the band was
"Together A!one" and the B side "Back in baby's arms".
which I am the proud owner of , a copy that my partner sought out on
the internet for me. I am desperate
to find a copy of another recording which I made so well, with
Bill Ryan who didn't stay very long with the Ceili
scene but went on to be very popular with Buckshot. He actually sang
the A side "Mrs Jones" (your daughter cried all night) which had to
change rapidly when Sam Joined the band. Its on release records
643.. I will be over the moon if anyone can come up with a copy !
P.s. I still do a bit of entertaining. Can't deprive the public
of a legend. Ha ha
Name: Mark Moroney
Email: moroney.mark@gmail.com
Date: 21 Feb 2014
Comments: Hi. I was wondering if
anyone could provide me with any information regarding an old Marmac
Super 60 that was passed down to me. I believe it was a Sligo based
company that rented this kind of stuff out to showbands and I would
love to know a little more about it. Any help would be greatly
appreciated. Kind regards, Mark
(Editor's Note: Answered via email)
Name: Anita Broderick
Email: anitabroderick@gmail.com
Date: 07 Feb 2014
Comments: Hi. I see a piece on
this site from a man who used to socialise in the Fixes Covert in
Tallaght back in the 1970's. He mentioned Liam Heffernan as
the MC, well Liam is my dad an I'm very sad to say that he passed
away last August 2013. I'm actually sitting here
listening to my dad in cd ... He is MC ... It's called "stars at
Montpelier" with stars Sil Fox, Candy Devine, Top Rank etc.
lovely memories x
Name: Mike
Email: mforrestall@norton-ib.co.uk
Date: 04 Feb 2014
Comments: Finally! A website I
can look at on my lunch break! Brilliant I t'music!
Name: Hugh O'Kelly
Email: hughokelly@gmail.com
Date: 01 Feb 2014
Comments: Hi, Just to say I was
the first piano player with the band
Name: frank horahan
Email: frankhorahan@gmail.com
Date: 01 Feb 2014
Comments: Was at brendan boyer,
swarbriggs , gina of the champions, paddy cole and the conquers
showband. tower hotel waterford . brilliant show with dancing. cant
better the showband days.
Name: John Egan
Email: Eastsuper778@gmail.com
Date: 30 Jan 2014
Comments: Thank you for this
wonderful sight. I am 3K miles away but thanks to you, people like
myself who were in the industry many moons ago are only a
click away.
Name: Paddy Leonard
Email: carolpaddy@bigpond.com
Date: 23 Jan 2014
Comments: Hi . I found this site
via a link and have spent the last few days of my spare time
enjoying immersing myself in the showband era. Now living in the
beautiful Blue Mountains 2 hours west of Sydney Australia this site
took me back to the many happy days I spent following showbands in
the 60s. My main "dancing days" were spent at the Castle Ballroom
Dungiven Co Derry where most of the major bands of the era played at
one time or another. My bedroom wall was covered with handout photos
received from the bands. I still have them in an old shirt box which
contained the first real fashion shirt I ever had, a present from my
Mother and Father on my 16th birthday. The Polka Dots and Plattermen
were two of my favourite bands and I loved the big brass sound of
the Plattermen. I remember standing outside the Castle one Sunday
afternoon listening to Dickie Rock and the Miami rehearsing the
latest pop song which was No 1 at the time, Sandy Shaw's Long
Long Live Love. They went over and over the introduction until they
were satisfied they had it just right. Most showband musicians
strived for perfection in playing live and reproducing sounds that
had been made in recording studios on the original record. Many
Thanks for a great site. Paddy Leonard
Name: Paddy Mac
Email: breakfast@dundalkfm.com
Date: 21 Jan 2014
Comments: Fantastic Site great
memories, I'm looking for Information, Carol Wallace (Carol and the
New Blues) left the Showband I was with GUYS AND DOLLS would
love to get in contact with her again, if you could help.
Name: Martin Field
Email: piledriver@eircom.net
Date: 18 Jan 2014
Comments: I just wanted to say,
that I thought that, "The Memories" were the greatest live Band on
the circuit, in the 1980.s they pushed the boundry,s with their
music, I seen them play live, about 15 times in Navan Beechmount
Hotel and a venue in Drogheda, Co, Louth,. and as I told Jim
Barry, they were the only Band I ever heard singing, Queen,s
Bohemien Rhaspody, and Led Zepplins. Stairway to heaven, it was
fantastic, Jom Barry,s singing range, was awesome, they nailed both
songs, even Queen would,nt play the middle part of that song live,
would love to see them play live again, I know Jim now lives in
Spain, and is an accomplished painter, great Memories.
Name: Eddie jeffares
Email: eandn.jeffares@yahoo.co.uk
Date: 05 Jan 2014
Comments: yes the gallowglass
ceili band take me down memory lane of the day going to the
irish club in dublin and all the showband .playing
down in co wexford great times
Name: Enda Clarke
Email: oldportglenone@gmail.com
Date: 29 Dec 2013
Comments: love all your photos ,
was wondering would there be any chance of me using one of the band
cards in a site i have call photo's of portglenone in
facebook . which has a album about Clady Hall , which the plattermen
played in years back, yours, Enda
Name: Walter OMalley
Email: womalley@sbcglobal.net
Date: 21 Dec 2013
Comments: I lived next door to
Mattie McDonagh, Claremorris, Co Mayo, My father was a tailor and
made the uniforms that Mattie & his band wore. He drove me in his
taxi to Cobh when I left Claremorris for the United States. Would
like to have a copy of the photo of his Bank. Thanks
Name: john breen
Email: johnjnrbreen@ghmail.com
Date: 20 Dec 2013
Comments: the breakaways show
band from naas became the ripcords show band. some of the old
members did not join . i knew the breakaways well
Name: Noel O' Sullivan
Email: noelo@shaw.ca
Date:15 Dec 2013
Comments: What a wonderful job
you people are doing, just keep it going as this site brings back
many good memories. Q: How many of the Denis Moynihan Quintet are
still active in the music business?
Editor's Note: We answered this email directly.
Name: Eamon Cleere
Email: cleere102@hotmail.com
Date: 14 Dec 2013
Comments: Hi all. Want to let
you all know that TWEED are reforming for a very special gig which
will take place in Set Theatre Kilkenny on Friday March 7th 2014.
The band will be 8 piece on the night with 5 original members from
1971 in the line up. Brendan Ryder(Vocals,Guitar), Michael
O'Grady(Keyboards), Arthur Connick (Trombone), Johny Scully
(Trumpet), Tony Ford (Bass), They will be joined by Gay Brazel (Lead
Guitar) and Dave Hallisey (Sax) both of whom played with TWEED in
the 70s and 80s.The line up is completed by ace drummer Brian Doran.
This gig is a fundraiser for Enable Ireland in Kilkenny. The band
have gone in to rehearsals for this special night and are looking
forward to seeing many faces from the hugely successful TWEED
days.
Name: james farrell
Email: kara2jim@hotmail.com
Date: 12 Dec 2013
Comments: My brother John
Farrell was the drummer, I remember Paul Ashford well, had some
great drinking sessions with him, great memories, great times.
Name: Tom
Email: thomasmurray@hotmail.com
Date: 05 Dec 2013
Comments: found this site as I
was just having a trip down memory lane its nice to read about the
old days and happy memories we are all just passing through as the
time flies by and we all live in hope that time will slow down
Name: Howard Dee Crean
Email: howieboy@eircom.net
Date: 05 Dec 2013
Comments: Just a wee note to
remember Colm "Squire" McGuire Bass Player with Stage Two and
Daylight Robbery who passed away in the early 80s so so young.
Squire took over from me in Stage Two when I left to get what my
mother described as " a real job". Great Website guys and really
enjoy it. H
Name: sean o'hara
Email: oharajohn2000@yahoo.co.uk
Date: 04 Dec 2013
Comments: I was manager of the
Finvola Showband {Limavady}1965-1968.The line-up was Anthony
O'Hara-bass and vocals,Mick O'Hara-saxophone and vocals,Lawerence
O'Hara-trumpet and vocals,Willie O'Hara-drums,Colm Mc Cann-rhythm
guitar,John Somers-lead guitar and vocals and Jimmy O'Hara-saxophone,clarinet,accordian,fiddle,piccolo
and vocals.as well as being band leader. Sadly, Jimmy died
recently.He was a great musician and is very badly missed in the
area.
Name: Catherine Fogarty
Email: catherine.cleary29@gmail.com
Date: 02 Dec 2013
Comments: Hi Folks, I attended
the Horse and Jockey Hotel Tipperary for a concert last night where
Johnny Carroll performed. He was just fantastic. I would love to
know if he has a website listing where he will feature.
Name: Marie Hannon
Email: marieghannon@gmail.com
Date: 30 Nov 2013
Comments: Hi there. I am Frankie
Hannon's daughter and just wanted to say hello and am so delighted
to see all the old photos of my Dad. Frankie died very young and
totally unexpected and was a great loss to the music world as to his
family. He was only 41 years old when he died and left a very young
family of five, two of them have already joined him. It is important
to keep the showband era alive as it was great dance music.
Name: mike spenser
Email: Withheld by request
Date: 30 Nov 2013
Comments: Jim Gunner in the Dave
Glover B was a dear friend of mine from the 80/90s. His real name
was George Hesse and he was from Wexford but was latterly with his
family Kathlene and children in Bootle, Liverpool. He was a
natural singer guitarist and certainly by far the best that we ever
heard over in the I-O-Man. Known to us as George Black he is sorely
missed. Thank You George is just not quite enough. Best Wishes,
Mike Spenser.
Name: vaughan byrne
Email: vkbyrne@gmail.com
Date: 22 Nov 2013
Comments: Hi all, just called in
to wish you continued success with your trip down showband memory
lane. Now I've retired I have more time to look at your site, you do
a great job keeping alive the days of our youth. I bet if some of my
old buddies could work one of these THIngs likE me wE would HAVE
ManY morE stORIes. To all the old bands out there get your grandkids
to show how to work this machine. We should form a veterans club.
Best wishes Vaughn Byrne
Name: Denis Thompson
Email: Withheld by request
Date: 17 Nov 2013
Comments: Looking at the
picture you have of the Pilots showband, The band was basically a
family band. In the picture is Errol Thompson, Colin Thompson, Hugh
Thompson and Christine Thompson.
Name: Rico
Email: paradise@rte.ie
Date: 11 Nov 2013
Comments: My Dad was Mick Adam's
(singer with the Ravens), he's pictured 2nd from the left in the
photo of them pointing to the Band's drum. I was wondering if there
were any more photo's out there of this particular line-up.
I'm also looking for a copy of the Rolling Stones Adelphi
promotional poster from 1965, as the Ravens were one of the support
acts. Rico.
Name: Patrick Hoye
Email: phoye2001@yahoo.com
Date: 30 Oct 2013
Comments: Just heard that Mick Bagnall (Margo's band
and the Drifters ) passed away .He lived in Mullingar over the past
few years. Regards.P.S. Double check as usual for verification.
Name: Sean Campbell Campbell
Email: seansccampbell@.gmail.com
Date: 28 Oct 2013
Comments: Can anyone remember
brian harkin who used to sing with the plainsmen..I think he was
longford...tink he died also..anyone eny info..
(Editor's note: Sadly, Brian passed away in January,
1991)
Name: joannne mcgrellis / lindsay
Email: Withheld by request
Date: 25 Oct 2013
Comments: just a wee text
to said if Gregory donaghey is looking at this ,I am Michael
Lindsay daughter he has told us a lot about you all good.and
just to said looking forward to meeting you in derry on the 7th of
jan. .
Name: kilmovee4
Email: Gallaher31@aol.com
Date: 15 Oct 2013
Comments: I am inquiring about
Peggy Curran of Ballina, from what I am hearing she used to sing
with Jack Ruane. If anyone has any information I would love to know.
Or any pictures of Peggy. Peggy's mother was my Great Aunt Margaret
Curran ( Nee Barrett of Market Square, Ballina ) I am looking for
any information on Peggy. Thank you in advance. Dawn
(Editor's Note: Hi Dawn, Your best bet is join our free
Forum and inquire there)
Name: margaret mccafferty
Email: Withheld by request
Date: 10 Oct 2013
Comments: very sad that
Colm mc Cormack has passed away. R.I.P. Mgt Mc Cafferty.
Name: patrick hoye
Email: phoye2001@yahoo.com
Date: 08 Oct 2013
Comments: Just a quick note to
inform you that Colm Maher formally from Mullingar passed away last
week. He played guitar with Jack Ruane and the Earl Gill band . In
later years he was a harp maker in Marley Park/Court ??
Name: Gavin Mitchell
Email: gavinmitchell70@gmail.com
Date: 05 Oct 2013
Comments: Hi there I stumbled on
to this site by accident whilst I was browsing the internet looking
to find out more about The Witnesses as my dad Harry Mitchell left
the Dave Glover Showband when it was forming. It was great to see a
photo of my dad from this era. Unfortunately he died in Israel in
1990. Great site, I'll be showing it to my mum as she's always on
about this part of her life. Kind Regards. Gavin. x
Name: Dawn Gallagher Rush
Email: Gallaher31@aol.com
Date: 03 Oct 2013
Comments: Does anyone remember a
singer named Peggy Curran from Ballina. Looking for information on
her. She is family, and I am trying to find out what happened to her
and her siblings.
Name: marie theobald
Email: mt020c4871@ntlworld.com
Date: 22 Sep 2013
Comments: would love to know
where are the swarbrigg brothers are now do they still play.
Editor's Note: Yes, they still tour a few times a
year...keep your eye on local papers
Name: Eileen McKay Crowe
Email: emcrowe1@aol.com
Date: 20 Sep 2013
Comments: What a excellent site.
My mother Eileen Sloane is the female sax player on the 1960's
picture on the home page my mam always spoke fondly of her time in
Micks band.
Name: Beverley Clarke
Email: bclarke06@btinternet.com
Date: 15 Sep 2013
Comments: Probably- no
definitely the wrong site ! so please excuse ....but I was a friend
of Jimmy Compton's sister- Louise. I have been away a long time and
would dearly love to know how Louise and Jane Compton are
doing...great memories of the sing songs in the Compton's house with
Mrs C in the kitchen. Beverley - nee Cunningham
Name: Kieran McConville
Email: Withheld by reequest
Date: 10 Sep 2013
Comments: Great looking back and
just to let you know that Hyland Paddy from Lurgan Co.Armagh who
played the Lower Deck/Wexford Inn Dublin for years are still playing
after all these years catch them at Fibber Magees Belfast every
Friday Night.
Name: Josephine
Email: Withheld by request
Date: 30 Aug 2013
Comments: To Frank Nash was your
brother Mick a drummer with Tommy Drennan ..in around 1975 ?
Name: Tom
Email: tomsmyth19@bigpond.com
Date: 14 Aug 2013
Comments: Today I learned of the
death of the great trumpeter Christy McNamara. A wonderful Musician
and an even more wonderful person. R.I.P Christy. go make music for
the God's my friend!
Name: john mahon
Email: schooner@eircom.net
Date:14 Aug 2013
Comments: what a super job of
work you did on the showband music scene. thank you from
john mahon guitar player from the quartermasters
Name: Benny Benson
Email: Bennyobenson@aol.com
Date: 13 Aug 2013
Comments: I came across the site
,quite by accident. I am Christy Bensons son, Paddys grandson, and
im a drummer working in Boston for many years. I played with Maurice
Mulcahys show band in the '80s, before leaving Ireland. It's
nice to see that time and times before that have not been
completely forgotten.
Name: Ross Putnam
Email: Withheld by request
Date: 11 Aug 2013
Comments: Hello, My brother and
I from California, both 14 at the time (1967), were staying the
summer in Dungiven N.I., to be with our dad who was working near
there. We soon met the locals and made great friends there. Learned
how to drink beer. We saw "Derrick and the Sounds" at the Castle in
Dungiven a few times and remember how good you were. Best summer of
my life! Those times, music and the girls will always be close to
our hearts. Best regards! Ross Putnam, Honolulu, HI.
Name: Sean Heffernan
Email: Withheld by request
Date: 11 Aug 2013
Comments: To whom it concerns,
Fair play on such an excellent online resource. It is with great
sadness that I inform you of the passing of Liam Heffernan. He
was buried yesterday in Newcastle Cemetery. He was born and
reared in Inchicore. He then lived for many years in Clondalkin. He
was a trombonist with the Altonaires Showband. He was a cousin
of my late Father.
Name: Mary
Email: lou_lou1949@yahoo.com
Date: 01 Aug 2013
Comments: I saw theTrixons back
in the 60's. I have 2 pics of them with autographs on the back
that I got from them. I just came across these pics today.
Such memories!
Name: paddy fitz
Email: paddy.fitz49@gmail.com
Date: 28 Jul 2013
Comments: friend off danny
matiland loved to hear him sing
Name: Elizabeth O Driscoll Coburn
Email: Elizcoburn@hotmail.com
Date: 16 Jul 2013
Comments: I think the web site
is fab!! I grew up in a music Venue - The Welcome Wagon,
crossakiel, Kells, Co. Meath. My parents returned from the UK
in the early seventies and opened a cabaret lounge which featured
about fifty of the artisits who appear on this site!, On
the 3rd of August 2013 after a revamp to the original lounge
which has a rich history of entertainment, music, talent
competitions and really has hosted every type of celebration
possible, this wonderful venue will re enter the music scene as a
luxurious venue with acoustics and musical acts to meet the diverse
demands of clients. The revamp launch will be a night of
Our Gathering which will be a celebration of all the musicians who
played in the venue over the last forty years ... About 15 artists
have replied to the invite to date but as my mum and sister put our
heads together and thought about how we could mark this momentous
occasion we all felt it would be nice to pay tribute to my father
- Mr Noel C O Driscoll who we lost in 2001 and perhaps try to do
something which would play a dual purpose and that was to appeal to
as many of the artists who played the venue to come along on the
night and take part in the largest ever performance by irish
artists of "Lovley Leitrim" - my Father''s favorite song
as he originally came from Carrick on Shannon. I have been in
negotiations with the Guinness Book of Records Rule committee!
Any funds raised will be donated to the irish Cancer Society to help
establish a prostate cancer help centre for the meath area.
Name: John & Tracey Goldrick
Email: goldricktray@eircom.net
Date: 14 Jul 2013
Comments: We would like to get
in touch with Des & Brenda Lee just to say Hi. We have been
living in Ireland for many years and would just like to say hello to
them, as we met them many years ago in Sandton, South Africa and
Golf Reef City, South Africa. Would be delighted if we had an
e-mail address. Thanks, Tracey & John Goldrick
Name: eithne mcgreevy
Email: eithnemcgreevy@hotmail.com
Date: 01 Jul 2013
Comments: Hi. Just found
your website. I know!!!! Anyway my husband, Joe McGreevy sang
with The Presidents, then the College Boys. But he always says
he started his first band - called The Manhattan with him, his
brother Paul, Hughie Kelly, Howard Fleming, Liam Shephard, Danny
McLaughlin. Sadly no-one ever seems to have taken a photograph
of them, 'cos they were before the Manhattan on your page.
Love what you've done. Brilliant to look at all the old photos
and well done to everyone who has taken and time and patience to put
all this together. Many thanks
Name: Oscar Woodcock
Email: Withheld by request
Date: 27 Jun 2013
Comments: I discovered your site
by chance whilst searching for Barry Barney who was in the band
SMILE. I spent the late part of the 1960.s/early 70's working in a
band with Barry but we lost touch around 1975. Sadly I now know that
he is no longer with us; would it be possible for someone to let me
know exactly when and where he passed away? Thank you
Oscar Woodcock
Name: Joe Lambe
Email: lambe13@gmail.com
Date: 22 Jun 2013
Comments: Was a great place to
be for a night out in the early sixties, wish i could remember the
names and faces of those beautiful girls that i danced or should i
say shuffled around with. Great memories.
Name: Alan o Sullivan
Email: Alaninboston@hotmail.com
Date: 07 Jun 2013
Comments: Rip! Paddy o Sullivan
from the regal showband! Miss you a lot your loving son alan
Name: Eoin
Email: Withheld by request
Date: 03 Jun 2013
Comments: Was at the Sweeney
Jazzmen in Sweeney's hotel(Dame St.) last night. They were recording
a live album and the band includes Paul Sweeney and Jim Farley which
I know have been mentioned on this site. Not sure about the rest of
the band. Still going strong, thats for sure.
Name: Tom
Email: Tom@discoverbundoran.com
Date: 28 May 2013
Comments: Great website. As a
younger visitor (24) and a local of Bundoran a once show-band
capital, it is a great resource to have for reference and captures
the legacy of Irish show band culture in an easy access platform.
Thank you. Tom Dillon, Digital Curator Ballyshannon Museum.
Name: Sean preston
Email: S53p@att.net
Date: 20 May 2013
Comments: Keep up the good
work,it's a great page to look back at the showbands
scene.......fond memories....
Name: bernard joyce
Email: bernardjoyce2@gmail.com
Date: 17 May 2013
Comments: i wish to inform the
site of the recent death of Michael Kelly from
Ballinrobe.Michael was a talented guitarist , played with 'Margo' &
'the Jack Ruane band in the 70s.Michael passed away on May 13
2013. Iwill try to add photo asap.
Name: martin henry
Email: henrymaryin@gmail.com
Date: 12 May 2013
Comments: always enjoy reading
please keep it up/martin
Name: Michael Driscoll
Email: micheal.driscoll@btinternet.com
Date: 07 May 2013
Comments: Hi Everyone, I have
just found this website and haven't been able to explore it yet - I
am just out of hospital after a hip operation. I came to the web
page through a search for a Johnny Pickering, a N.I. Bandleader in
the 50s/60s whom I know nothing about. I seem to have acquired the
Hohner Shand Morino accordion owned and played by him in the 1960s.
Can any of you point me in the direction as to where I can find out
about his use of that accordion specifically, and in general about
him, his band, any pictures or audio sound of him etc. Any
information would be much appreciated.
Name: Mike Scott
Email: m1.scott90@gmail.com
Date: 07 May 2013
Comments: Hi Everyone, I am
completely new to the Irish Showbands site. A few out there might
remember me when I was the lead singer with the Cotton Mill Boys
country band. It was a great time for me and I remember playing in
so many venues all over Ireland and Great Britain. If any one
remembers me and would like to swap stories, I'd love to hear from
you. God Bless you all. Kind Regards, Mike.
Name: David Roberts
Email: county.offally@yahoo.com
Date: 01 May 2013
Comments: How do I get a hold of
a copy of Automobile by eh Band CHIPS totally loving them : My
address is David Roberts 815 Forest Ave Room 10 Northfield Minnesota
55057 USA my phone is 507-664-8853 any help would be appreciated
Thanks : Ireland Forever
Name: Geraldine Freiberg
Email: Withheld by request
Date: 29 Apr 2013
Comments: Where would I get a cd
or video of mick delahunty 4 my mum.
(Editor's note: We have answered Geraldine, but because she has
requested her email be hidden, nobody else can contact her.)
Name: Nora Needham
Email: Withheld by request
Date: 13 Apr 2013
Comments: Would like to know if
its possible to get a copy of Danny Pearse's "Broken Promises. I was
very much a fan.
(Editor's note: We have answered Nora, but because she has
requested her email be hidden, nobody else can contact her.)
Name: dusty young
Email: dusty@jocar.freeserve.co.uk
Date: 13 Apr 2013
Comments: I was looking through
your lists of ballrooms and here a few observations. The Ballerina
in Dublin became The Town and Country Club. Arus Mhuire was in
Inchicore and you've spelt it Inchicoren. The Television club was
formerly known as the Four Provinces
(Editor's note: Thanks Dusty, all have been updated.)
Name: Gerard
Email: mccarthydenis57@yahoo.co.uk
Date: 08 Apr 2013
Comments: Any body know if it is
possible to get any of Tweeds music have a song called painted lady
in my head from Tweed also any one know of Dale Haze Solo project
back in the 80s
Name: jim fitzgerald
Email: Withheld by request
Date: 03 Apr 2013
Comments: Just like to
say the person holding the sax
in the kingdom showband picture was my father
jerry fitzgerald and the person on
the bass was Toddy Lahaine both of
which have sadly passed away.
(Editor's note: Thanks Jim, we have updated the site, sorry to
hear your Dad is no longer with us.)
Name: Frank Draper
Email: frankdraper@ultimaoil.ie
Date: 31 Mar 2013
Comments: Hi everyone involved
in this site excellent site it is too enabling people as it does to
catch up or at least reminisce about various different aspects of
the Irish Showband scene and it's all good If you haven't
already why don't you check out the Royal showband documentary film
''The One Nighters'' it's great stuff I mean why wouldn't RTE dip
into it when it comes to doing some kind of feature on the
afore-said showband? Good Luck all involved.
(Editor's note: Thanks Frank. Actually, RTE have used it
repeatedly whenever they do a showband piece, great document of the
era!)
Name: Seamus Mac Loclainn
Email: Withheld by request
Date: 29 Mar 2013
Comments: Where id all those
great showbands get the great music they produced. Some of that
music were also hits in the United States. Seamus
(Editor's note: Thanks Seamus, they got it from the States during
trips to play there and via Armed Forced Radio mostly. Even back
then it was a small world!)
Name: Giovanni Flavell
Email: Withheld by request
Date: 27 Mar 2013
Comments: Well done on a great
and well put together site. I played in a few Belfast bands from the
late sixties until a few years ago. One of which,' Dodgers', is
featured in a photo here taken around 1976. I'm the one with the
long hair and was the singer/guitarist. Sadly My Dear friend Billy
Garland who played Drums in 'circle' and contributed to this site,
died on the 18th. December 2012 after a long illness. A sad loss to
the musicians he befriended throughout all our lives. May he rest in
peace.
Name: Sabrina
Email: irishchick1979@aol.com
Date: 26 Mar 2013
Comments: Hi, I would like to
get in contact with Gregory Donaghy. would you be able to put me in
contact with him or would anyone know how I could go about this. I
would be grateful for any help at all. thank you
Name: Laura McCrea
Email: elaura22@hotmail.com
Date: 24 Mar 2013
Comments: My Mum and Dad met
here, they spoke of a more innocent time when fun was interacting
and dancing with you friends, they loved this place. Sadly my Father
has passed on, however, memories are forever,
Name: David O'Connor
Email: D.oconnor@sky.com
Date: 20 Mar 2013
Comments: Long left ireland,
March 1967 however a regular RETURNEE....From Dun Laoghaire and
great memories of Club Caroline, Anchor Club, Presentation in
Glasthule where I seen Bluesville for the first time...Awestruck by
them, soom they were followed by the Chosen Few with ex Bluseville
members and retained friendship to this day, Other memorable
groups then Rootzgroup, Creatures, Hedley Kay at Knox Hall,
Monkstown..Tommy V ella, Paul Ashford, Fran O'Toole both gone sadly.
I am still in touch with Mick Molloy, George O'Rorke and others.
Great site here .
Name: pete kinsey
Email: pmk87parlevet@hotmail.com
Date: 18 Mar 2013
Comments: Still miss the
Showband scene after all these years, so many happy memories
especially of dancing to Carole and The New Blues., very much
underrated band, simply the best!
Name: graeme Humphrey
Email: graemehumphrey4@gmail.com
Date: 18 Mar 2013
Comments: For your archives The
founding members of the Belfast group Richmond Hill were Frank
Thompson Graeme Humphrey Dee Findlay Johnny Gregg and Stiffy
Holland in 1968
Name: john o'rourke
Email: empirestatebuilding@hotmail.com
Date: 16 Mar 2013
Comments: HELP! I need some
assistance folks. My name is John O'Rourke and I'm from Sligo. My
uncle played the drums in a band called the "The times showband".
His name was Freddie Nooney. He is still alive. Here is the
problem...I've searched online for pictures of this, but to no
avail. If anyone could help, it would be great. I know that for a
while Coucillor Declan Bree from Sligo played in the band too. i
would guess that he would have been the youngest in the band as most
of them now are late sixities/ early seventies. some have passed on.
The problem I have encountered is that at that time there was
another band called the "Times Showband"...now talking about
confusing things. The members of the band are as follows:- Declan
Bree, Joe Scanlon, John McLoughlin RIP, Freddie Nooney; Sean
Scanlon, Sean Nooney, Tommy McDonagh, Vincent Somers. Once again, if
anyone could help to find out more info or know of any pictures it
would be great. thanks John o'rourke
Name: Theresa
Email: tmcomiskey@gmail.com
Date:
13 Mar 2013
Comments: I have great memories
from the 70s and 80s with old friends from Gerry and the Merryboys
(and Duffy Brothers), both in New York and in Mayo. I met the guys
in 1978. I once had a copy of the photo posted on this site, it was
great to see it again, 30+years later. Thanks for the memories!
Name: Helen Broderick
Email: Withheld by request
Date: 12 Mar 2013
Comments: I had my photo taken
with a member of the Millionaires Showband and cannot remember his
name. He appeared on the "Do You Come Here Often" show in the
Waterfront Hall in Belfast on 28th December, 2012. Can you tell me
his name please?
Name: eddie mac hale
Email: eddiemachale@yahoo.com
Date: 10 Mar 2013
Comments: listening to Brian
Coll on u tube. He was brilliant. have we ever had a better
country singer in this country I don't so.
Name: Sean Brophy
Email: Withheld by request
Date: 02 Mar 2013
Comments: Danceland Ballroom
Portlaoise was beside my former home in Portlaoise. It was flattened
many years ago to facilitate the original town bypass and the site
is now part of James Fintan Lawlor Avenue. My siblings and I used
help the showbands with their gear and lapped up the publicity
photos and occasional tips. Butch Moore RIP was particularly
generous and I can recall kicking a ball around in front of hall
with various band personnel.
Name: Teresa McCullagh
Email: teresamccullagh@hotmail.co.uk
Date: 24 Feb 2013
Comments: Hi, I would like to
get in contact with Dermot Hegarty. would you be able to put me in
contact with him or would anyone know how I could go about this. I
would be grateful for any help at all. thank you.
Name: Michael Lyons
Email: mj_lyons@yahoo.com
Date: 11 Feb 2013
Comments: Hi,Greetings from
Sydney, great site. Thanks for all the effort put in by your team.
We lost a great Irish singer Jimmy Moore recently in Sydney. Jimmy
was from Lurgan, Co Armagh and was part of the Irish Australian
music scene for many years. He is sadly missed! Thanks Michael Lyons
Name: bernadette neil
Email: Withheld by request
Date: 05 Feb 2013
Comments: has anyone got any
photos of my brother Joe Conway.(Gary Street).I will gladly pay for
any plus postage.Many thanks
Name: gerald kennedy
Email: countrygem291247@yahoo.co.uk
Date: 05 Feb 2013
Comments: gerald kennedy ex
member of maurice lynch showband castleblayney organist/vocalist now
living in costa blanca spain dated 05/02/2013
Name: Brendan Kilty
Email: Withheld by request
Date: 31 Jan 2013
Comments: The unknown guitarist
in the 1981 lineup of Starband is the now well known blues guitarist
Pat Kilty he was also in Vienna when they released the single "The
Silence".
Name: Blueobrien
Email: blueobrien@live.co.uk
Date: 27 Jan 2013
Comments: hi everyone i am looking for imformation on the
death of shay mc carthy in croaisa
Name: Marian
Email: marianwalsh93@yahoo.com
Date: 27 Jan 2013
Comments: What a wonderful
singer.Have been a fan of his for years since I first saw him in
Thurles long ago.
Marian
Name: Mandy
Email: elizabethfarrelly@hotmail.co.uk
Date: 25 Jan 2013
Comments: I sang a Duet With
Bill while he performed with th Gallowglass Ceili Band for a short
period of time and desperate to find a copy of it. I am finding it
difficult to see anything of that record on the internet. I know
that it was recorded on Release Records. It would be great to hear
it again.
Name: Pat McGreevy
Email: annetmcgreevy@yahoo.co.uk
Date: 20 Jan 2013
Comments: Hi everyone, I am
looking some help. There is a plaque to the late, great Tony Morelli
being designed and I need to find the perfect picture for it. Can
you all search those old albums hidden away and see if you come
across anything that could be used? We are also currently seeking
donations towards the plaque if there are any good ideas out there
for fundraising. Many thanks folks, Pat.
Name: Ruby West
Email: rubywest@hotmail.com
Date: 20 Jan 2013
Comments: Wonderful to come
across your very informative web site. My parents introduced me to
the showband scene as they were good friends of The Witnesses .
Later on in my early teens I became a great fan of Teddie and the
Tigers and spent many happy nights dancing at Betty Staffs in
Belfast. My friends and I visited many dance halls in the North and
the entertainment and fun times were the best. Your site has brought
back many dear memories...thank you so much.
Name: Richie Stone
Email: richardstonesnr@gmail.com
Date: 17 Jan 2013
Comments: Jim Cantwell Big Band
were from Kilkenny and were one of the best around at the time
Name: Walter Jacobs
Email: yakob22@yahoo.co.uk
Date: 16 Jan 2013
Comments: Nice to find Tweed on
your site. Have great memory's from those guys' song My Lagan Love.
A holiday in Ireland in 1983. Any idea if this is a track from a
album of Tweed?
Name:Dorothy keogh
Email: Withheld by request
Date: 15 Jan 2013
Comments: Just want to say i
have so enjoyed reading your pages on the showbands, i even learned
a few things about some of the bands, the best afternoons, reading
,keep up the good work ,xxx
Name: Donna Hackman
Email: donnalymeavenue@yahoo.com
Date: 12 Jan 2013
Comments: My auntie is Dinky o
Day and she now lives in West Sussex .
Name: Michael Mooney
Email: moonz44@aol.com
Date:
07 Jan 2013
Comments: Just found your
excellent site, I was 15 when the 60's began........must have been
in every dance hall in the north & quite a few in the south. I spent
quite a lot of time in the later years with Dermot O'Donnell
(Abercorn & Queen's Court fame) & his widow, Norma called to wish us
Happy New Year. They were absolute icons in their day. Loved Dermot
& love you too, Norma!!
Name: See Jay
Email: Withheld by request
Date: 07 Jan 2013
Comments: Hi. I got here
accidentally via a Google search whilst hunting for an ancestor. I
didn't find him, but thought that this was a brilliant site and just
wanted to say Congratulations!
Name: Nita mc Loone
Email: Nita_mcloone@eircom.net
Date: 05 Jan 2013
Comments: Just discovered this
wonderful site. I am just learning about computer so please
forgive . I am anxious to know Jimjoe to say thenk you .
Name: Ger Boyle
Email: Withheld by request
Date: 21 Dec 2012
Comments: Hi,I just want to
express my joy in viewing your site it's great looking through all
the Showbands.Iwant to explain that I lived next door to the Brandon
Ballroom in Tralee Co Kerry at the height of the Showband Boom it
was a great era,the Band Wagons used to pull up and the members used
to bring in the gear,then there was the sound check (which I used to
listen too) off they would go for a bite to eat and then came the
punters from far and near for the fabulous nights entertainment .The
joy these musicians gave on the night will never be repeated,from
tango's,waltzes,rock and roll etc you name it they had it. Songs
that were in the top ten and top twenty fantastic. These talented
musicians/entertainers men and women travelled long distances to all
parts of Ireland gave a great nights joy and packed up and on the
road again home. They were just FANTASTIC.Bring back the Showbands
again .
Name: roy blakely
Email: royblakely@btinternet.com
Date: 18 Dec 2012
Comments: i think its a great
site glad to see all these people again or just look hehe
Name: Norma branagh
Email: sudtor@yahoo.co.uk
Date: 06 Dec 2012
Comments: Was so lovely to touch
base with an old friend, Teddie Palmer. Congrats to you on your
wonderful success x
Name: Ruby West
Email: rubywest@hotmail.com
Date: 29 Nov 2012
Comments: Hi there I have found
your site very interesting and it certainly brought back many happy
memories for me. My parents paved the way for us children as they
were good friends of the Witnesses Showband. I loved going to Betty
Staffs in Belfast from around 1966, where bands like Teddie and the
Tigers, The Few and even Rory Gallagher Played. Great,happy and
innocent times. Belfast was buzzing and my friends went all around
the North to different dance halls. Even went as far as Dublin
twice. I made many great friends in the music business and was
deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Brian Scott and my dear
close pal Billy Burns, both of Teddie Palmer Trend days. Thank you
for all the info on your site, yours truly Ruby
Name: Suzanne Mc Intyre
Email: grannieof6@hotmail.com
Date: 23 Nov 2012
Comments: Please pray for my
dear brother Joe McIntyre, he is very ill (in St Vincents hospital)
many of you know him, so please remember him in your prayers,
for many years he played with myn brother Gay,then with Johnny
Flynn. My hear is sore to-night as I write this. God bless and thank
you Suzanne Mc Intyre
Name: rebecca
Email: niteclubbecks@hotmail.com
Date: 23 Nov 2012
Comments: Hi all. I am looking
for any tapes or pictures of the the flamingoes show band. Trying to
put something together for someone who loves this band. Can anyone
help me out?
Name: Collette Furlong
Email: collette_12000@yahoo.com
Date: 15 Nov 2012
Comments:
Love the showbands, used to
go to the TV Club back in 1974
Name: Jimmy Sharpe
Email: Withheld by request
Date: 13 Nov 2012
Comments: Just heard the very
sad news that Ivan McBride, sax player with the Skyrockets Showband,
Enniskillen, has passed away at his home n Australia. May he rest in
peace.
Name: ruby west
Email: rubywest@hotmail.com
Date: 06 Nov 2012
Comments: I was delighted to
find your web site as it contained so much history that was very
relevant to my youth back in Belfast. I have so many fond memories
of the time period from 1966 to 1972. My strongest were of
Teddie Palmer and his bands of that era. I read a lot more on your
web site and i am deeply saddened to read about the death of Billy
Burns and Brian Scott. I knew both of these guys personally. I was
also a friend of Teddie's and enjoyed reading about his life. I have
not seen Ted since 1982 as emigrated to Australia. You are looking
well kid. Sincere condolences to Brian's family. I would also like
to send my sympathies to Billy's family. I am sure you will remember
me. I was Ruby Hunter back then. Again great to see your web site
but very sad about my friends. RIP Billy. Much loved and never
forgotten.
Name: Dave Gold
Email: davegold77@yahoo.com
Date: 28 Oct 2012
Comments: What a pleasure to see
pictures of so many pals from long ago: Gay, Shay and Joe McIntyre,
Butch and Des Moore, Desi Reynolds to name but a few. Thank you so
much.
Name: Kev
Email: zeb732@hotmail.com
Date: 27 Oct 2012
Comments: Ciaran Mcdonald
(Drifters 1969) RIP 20/05/2012 , Fr Ciaran was our parish priest and
often told us the story of being in a Band in Ireland called the
Drifters, I just thought it would be a nice tribute to him: >From
the Northern Cross June 2012 page 25 Fr Ciaran McDonnell
parish priest of St Augustine's died on May 20th. Fr Ciaran was born
in Strabane, Northern Ireland and knew by the age of 11 he wanted to
be a priest. He joined the Drifters Irish pop group at the age of
19; Make Me An Island reached no 2 in Top of the Pops in 1969.
After studying at St Patrick's Seminary in Thurles he was ordained
in 1976. At Holy Rosary in Sunderland he began a prayer group which
grew from 3 members to 200 in two months. He became a hospital
chaplain and was also curate at St Aidan's Ashington. He was Parish
Priest at St Wilfred's Bishop Auckland, St John Vianny in Hartlepool
and then St Augustine's. During his ministry he travelled to Uganda,
Slovakia and Croatia. He also spent a year at Medjugorge helping
English speaking pilgrims. He organised the Charismatic Conference
for bishops and priests in the UK. His whole life centred on
devotion to and understanding of the Eucharist.
Fr Ciaran's Requiem Mass was at St Mary's Cathedral on May 25th. His body
was then taken to Ireland for burial by his loving family. May he
rest in peace.
Name: Declan O Regan
Email: declanoregan77@yahoo.co.uk
Date: 25 Oct 2012
Comments: Just looking through
your site today, and was delighted to see the photos of San
Bernadino showband. My uncle George Drummond was the drummer of the
band. He passed away this morning in the Mercy Hospital,Cork of
cancer. 25/10/2012 . If you could tell me where I could possibly get
my hands on any photos etc. of the band, it would be great. Thanks
in advance. RIP George Drummond.
Name: Francis Winter
Email: The_duke@fsmail.net
Date: 16 Oct 2012
Comments: Would like to hear any
information on Phillipe Cole. Saxaphone. We used to work together in
London many years ago. thank you for your time. Francis
Name: Helen pugh
Email: pughhelen64@yahoo.com
Date: 15 Oct 2012
Comments: Hi All,Iam a huge Joe
dolan fan i just cant get enough of him.I have loved him for 40
years give or take.I am looking for someone to chat to about joe .Is
there anyone who would like to make a new friend.
Name: Michael Lyons
Email: mj_lyons@yahoo.com
Date: 13 Oct 2012
Comments: Thanks for the site
and your great work to keep the memories of some of Irelands great
artists alive. I was a good friend of Shay OHara (Royal Blues)
during his life in Australia. He did great work to foster and
promote the Irish music heritage in Australia for many years. He was
proud of his adopted country but never forgot his Irish roots. I
also was a great friend of Michael Bryan (Classic Showband) we both
joind the Army Apprentice School, Nass,Co Kildare in 1960 and
my last meeting with Michael was when his band toured London around
1968. I had just come to Australia in 1970 when I heard of his
tragic accident.and subsiquent death. "The love you have for someone
never dies and as the weeks, months and years pass by that love
becomes pure and very precious" Keep up the good work. Michael
Lyons, Sydney
Name: Sylvia mccahon nee McCann
Email: Mccahons@ aol.com
Date: 13 Oct 2012
Comments: Ivan mcconville was my
next door neighbour and I called my fist son after him he was also
known as the gentle giant. Ivan checked in on me each day of
my pregnancy sadly he was killed in a car accident on the outskirts
of Banbridge. He died in 1978 not 1979 which is on your page.
Name: Sandra O'Callaghan
Email: info@sandraocallaghan.com
Date: 12 Oct 2012
Comments: A lovely 'blast from
the past' thanks very much. My Dad was Michael O' - The
Michael O'Callaghan Showband. Kind regards, Sandra O'Callaghan
Name: Helen pugh
Email: pughhelen64@yahoo.com
Date: 08 Oct 2012
Comments: I just read the joe
dolan peace and near the bottom it said ray dolan was joe dolans
son.I have been a big fan of joe's for years and play his music all
day every day so you can imagine my surprise when i read that .Does
anyone know if it is true. Helen.
Name: Seamie power
Email: Withheld by request
Date: 07 Oct 2012
Comments: joe Dolan to me was a
legend and a lot of his songs should have been higher in the English
charts as well as the Irish charts he had a amazing voice and he is
sadly missed as I have seen him live many times his voice is the
same live as on his records which a lot of today's singer can't
perform live because there voices don't sound good live that
is way joe Dolan was Ireland's greatest entertainer and we will
never see a artist as great as joe Dolan again his songs
sister Mary to me should have been a no1in English and Ireland
other songs like tar and cement Teresa you you you good looking
woman I need you all still classic I would hope the Dolan legacy
will continue with his family and we hopefully will continue
his songs by forming a group as we miss his great talent and his
songs god bless you joe Dolan your songs gave me in good time and
bad times so much happiness when I was dating and seeing you live to
me you still live on in your songs thanks you for this site you have
done a great job
Name: Shane O'Halloran
Email: shaneohooligan@hotmail.com
Date:06 Oct 2012
Comments: Hey was told about
this webpage and just love it. Big Jim Nash is my dad so
it was pretty cool to see this. Thanks again
Name:Catherine Burns
Email: Withheld by request
Date: 01 Oct 2012
Comments: Hi. It was with great
sadness R.I.P. I heard of the death of the great Larry Cunningham.
Name: sandra armbruster
Email: sandraarmbruster@rocketmail.com
Date: 22 Sep 2012
Comments: i justt viewed your
website here, and i have learned sooo much! thankyou for this
opportunity! i initially came here out of boredom, looking for
something to do that i never have before.... and to get the feel of
the music.... my greatgrandparents were the Tates and the
Curry's.... i hope to hear from you soon... God Bless you all there,
and a heartfelt 'Hello' to all!
Name: Mary Finnerty
Email: madmaryf@aol.com
Date: 20 Sep 2012
Comments: What an excellent idea
guys,it's great to see the bands from yester year.I went to see a
lot of these bands in the dancehall,Carraroe,Co.Galway,the Poitín
Stil in Inverin,Galway.Brings back a lot of great memories. I have
to dig out some old pics and posters when I go home and email them
to you guys.Keep up the good work. Best Regards,Mary,xo
Name: gregory
Email: henrymaryin@gmail.com
Date: 19 Sep 2012
Comments: johnny quigily best
band ireland ever had
Name: P. J. Clarke, Ballina
Email: pjmclarkw2004@yahoo.com
Date: 23 Aug 2012
Comments: It is with sadness
that I have to report the deaths of two of Ballina's (Co. Mayo)
musicians: they are Tommie Murphy and Gerry (Amigo) Kilroy.
Coincidentally, both were drummers. Tommy was 76 and Gerry 51 (he
died in England) and both will be buried in Ballina over the next
few days. Tommy was very well known in jazz circles and could be
found every Tuesday night playing his beloved drums in P. J.
Duff'y's pub in Ballina. He had played with a number of bands before
forming his own band, The Dominoes. He also featured with his other
band, The Montrose, on the Showband Show on TV with Paul
Russell. These last couple of years he hosted his own show on MWR
and, of course, he played some fantastic jazz music from his huge
collection.
Gerry Kilroy played with a couple of groups in Ballina before
joining The Richmonds where he bcame a popular figure known as
"Face" from the TV series. He emigrated to England for a period but
returned and formed a band called The Three Amigos in Ballinrobe.
Once again he took to the emigrant ship and settled in Huddersfield
where he died. God rest them both and if they ever meet the craic
will be 'mighty.'
Name: William burns
Email: Hidden by request
Date: 23 Aug 2012
Comments: the best show band in
Ireland and of their times .congratulations
Name: john ryane
Email: Hidden by request
Date: 22 Aug 2012
Comments: Whats paddy burns of
the cadets doing know.would like to hear
Name: bobby forsythe
Email: bob.forsythe@btinternet.com
Date: 19 Aug 2012
Comments: Sad news, showband
legend Tony Morelli passed away 15/8/12. Tony had been ill last few
years. R.I.P. Bobby
Name: Mary Lawrence
Email: Hidden by request
Date: 16 Aug 2012
Comments: hi i was born and
raised in sligo, but have only now heard maisie mcdaniels. such a
shame she never got where she deserved to be she had such a
beautiful voice. rip maisie
Name: James Murray
Email: jamestheduke@talktalk.net
Date: 16 Aug 2012
Comments: Visited Portrush for
the first in 1957 went to the Arcadia Ballroom heard Dave Glover and
for the next 7 years was there; also went to the Strand in
Portstewart where the Witness Showband played woinderful times. If
onbly the clock could get turned back. Going to Bushmills to play
bowls in three weeks will visit Portrush and remember times in the
past No doubt there will be a few tears; I think I'll need another
whiskey.
Name: Patrick "Chink" Scanlon
Email: scanlon@vermontel.net
Date: 10 Aug 2012
Comments: Finbarr or Frankie the
Chink is still alive and living in Vermont. Read Finbar's book which
included my picture. (probabley sold a few extra copies on that fact
alone.) Tried to reach you guys in the past to no avail. Patrick
Scanlon.
Name: terry Mckibbin
Email: emckibbin@cogeco.ca
Date: 28 Jun 2012
Comments: I remember Henry
McCullough played with the Skyrockets (mid sixties) one of many
great bands, love the site. I played with the Velvetone Lisburn in
the sixties i have some pictures and info on the band please let me
know if I can send it to you thank you.
Name: Lawrence Newman
Email: lnewman@hotmail.co.uk
Date: 26 Jun 2012
Comments: Hi, great finding your
website, would love to find out what has happened to Angela Farrell
who was in the 1971 Eurovision, she had a lovely voice and sweet
face. Can anyone help? Thanks. Lawrence.
Name: willie j dunbar
Email: Hidden by request
Date: 21 Jun 2012
Comments: the two unknowns are
duffy second from left and sam third from right
Name: Mark Crowe
Email: Hidden by request
Date: 21 Jun 2012
Comments: Stumbled across the
site looking for info about the Trixons. I've got a copy of a poster
showing the Trixons supporting the Beatles at Buxton Pavilion on 6th
April 1963- same band?
Name: Bill Whelan
Email: Hidden by request
Date: 06 Jun 2012
Comments: Hello - I'm
looking for any available info on the beatgroup The Action which
featured Peter Adler, Ian Whitcombe and Ian McGarry (?) + several
others. They were based in Trinity College, Dublin sometime in the
60's .
Name: mary stephens(mc laughlin)
Email: marynks@hotmail.com
Date: 04 Jun 2012
Comments: like to know wer is
brian ,im a old friend .
Name: Mary (Gibbons) Kent
Email: kent324@btinternet.com
Date: 29 May 2012
Comments: I was so sad to hear
that Jarlath Maloney passed away, RIP. How old was he?
We used to meet years and years ago when the showband toured London
as Jarlath would get in touch!
Name: Connie O'Callaghan
Email: clocall@hotmail.com
Date: 27 May 2012
Comments: As I spend the winter
in Newcastle On Tyne, am back in the Co. Cork for the rain etc. When
I bought the last issue of Ireland's Own and what pops out but our
own Tina. As I haven't seen or heard of her over the last years it
has made my spell back home more enjoyable. I left these shores in
the mid 60's so its back to enjoying the likes of Tina.
Name: eve byrne
Email: evembyrne@gmail.com
Date: 21 May 2012
Comments: Hi you have a picture
of the miami show band with a female singer marked as unknown. I can
confrim that her name is Raphaelle Ward.
Name: mel
Email: Withheld by request
Date: 20 May 2012
Comments: Sadly Father Ciaron
McConnell who used to play for The Drifters Showband has passed away
this morning from pancreatic cancer, he was in the band with Joe
Dolan. Their single 'Make me an island' went to number 3 in
the Uk charts, and they appeared on the Top Of The Pops in 1969
Name: Jeffrey Paul
Email: Rickynelsonfan@hotmail.com
Date: 05 May 2012
Comments: Hello, My name
is Jeffrey and I just returned from a wonderful holiday in Dublin,
Ireland. I attended the St. Patrick's Day Parade, took a day
trip to the famous Cliff's, visited Waterford and traveled about
freely the country side to all the ruins of the church's and
castles. One day I was walking about downtown Dublin and saw a
record store and I ventured inside. The record store was "
Tower Records " these record stores were all about the Uninted
States and have since been closed for decades. I was talking
to a clerk, in the record store, and asked him if the store had any
CD or records of famous Irish rock & roll bands of the '60's.
The clerk just stood looking at me as if I were mad. I
replied, " In the States we had The Supremes, The Beatles & Stones
and Dusty Springfield (yes, from the UK...but, we loved them
all). The clerk replied, " As long as I have worked at
this store, no one has ever asked that question. No one
listens to old '60's rock & roll." I said, " I do and I love
the '60's beat." The clerk gave me a couple of CD's of '60's
show bands, I didn't even understand what a show band was. I
was turned onto Butch Moore and the Capitols, " Born To Be With You"
and "Walking The Streets In The rain" it was instant love for
the Irish bands of the '60's. I record in the States and I
plan on recording Butch Moore's two famous hits. I would love
to become a member of the Butch Moore organization if you would
grant me this honor. I just retired from Delta Air Lines and
all I would need is a days notice and I'm off to Dublin, Ireland.
Your country and people are very different from the States, you all
seem so down to earth and I thank you for that. Please feel
free to drop me a line and also please consider my offer to become
involved in your organization. I feel hit makers like Butch
Moore & the Capitols should be remembered and that there music
should not be collecting dust on a shelf. The Irish hit makers
made history and my goal is to help keep those memories alive
for future generation to hear. Thank you for allowing me to
write this note and I hope to hear from you soon. Cheers,
Jeffrey Paul (Atlanta, GA)
Name: vera
Email: lane.vera@yahoo.com
Date: 05 May 2012
Comments: dose anybody
have music by the showband the Virginians, i would love to play on
my radio show
Name: Sheila Murray
Email: Withheld by request
Date: 10 Apr 2012
Comments: Frankie McDonald I
really like your song Dream of Elvis. Its rarely on the radio. I
went to buy it but wasn't available. The only chance I get to hear
it is by requesting it on the Junior Walker Show. Any chance you
will post it on youtube? I really like your singing voice. I'll be
checking youtube. Thanks.
(Editor's Note: This site is an historical archive opf
the showband era. It is not Frankie McDonald's site. Sorry)
Name: sean mulcahy
Email: mulcahy_s@yahoo.ie
Date: 10 Apr 2012
Comments: I was introduced to
Pat Lynch (airchords showband). last Sunday in Cork with his wife,I
did not realise that he was related to friends of mine.it was a
pleasure to meet him as he is a total gentleman, I could have
listened to him telling stories of showband days for hours.He even
gave me a cd of his favourite songs which is very enjoyable.
Name: Marilyn
Email: withheld by request
Date: 07 Apr 2012
Comments: Just remembering the
good old days when the Virginians used to play in Ennis, if anyone
knows where the keyboard player Paul Tobin is, would love to know!
Marilyn in Ennis.
Name: des kennedy
Email: withheld by request
Date: 06 Apr 2012
Comments: It is a pity that all
the great pop and rock covers bands of the 70s 80s came to an end eg
tweed memories rock steward brush shields skid row and
some even sadly deceased that i only learned about recently
times are not the same now musically i must mention the
other bands that played the ballroom circuit at that stage eg chips
sunshine san bernadino lucky numbers driveshaft cork luv bug the
champions reform jimi slevin sands swarbriggs the
monkeys athlone and u also had the rock groups eg bogey boys
mamas boys rocky devalera and the gravediggers gimmick stepaside
stagalee katmandu dc9 ferdia mc anna and the rythm kings cahir o
doherty and the dazzle band
Name: John McDonough
Email: Withheld by request
Date: 01 Apr 2012
Comments: I would like to find
out where Bernard Cheevers Guitarist with Skid Row is now ?
(Edfitor's note: all requests for info should be posted on our
free forum. It is the best chance of getting a response)
Name: pete kinsey
Email: pete_kinsey@yahoo.co.uk
Date: 26 Mar 2012
Comments: It would be nice if
there was a resource which covered the irish bands which played the
irish circuit within the uk, pubs, irish clubs and centres.Obviously
Lee Lynchwas huge on the London irish scene but there wereothers too
such as the band fronted by Shaun Connery who had the residency at
the Forum in Camden Town in London., and the resident one at the
Shamrock in Birmingham, even bands like Lena and The Green Glens who
were active in the Midlands in the 1970s, they played clubs like the
one I belonged to St Patricks Club in London.
(Editor's note: Hi Pete, yes it would, but sadly our
hands are full just trying to catalog and validate the bands that
played in Ireland. Perhaps someone who lived in the UK during the
era might take on that task. Thanks as always for supporting the
site.)
Name: Marian
Email: Withheld by request
Date: 25 Mar 2012
Comments: I am a fan of Margos
for many years and go to her concert every year. Wishing her all the
best.Long may she continue. Marian
Name: Ann Sheldon
Email: ann-emma@hotmail.co.uk
Date: 15 Mar 2012
Comments: this is the first time
i love all irish music i'd like to ask if TR Dallas a brother to
Foster or Alan.
(Editor's note: Yes Ann, Tom Allen is a brother to Tony
Allen of Foster and Allen.)
Name: Claire
Email: clairegates61@hotmail.com
Date: 07 Mar 2012
Comments: can anyone tell me
what noel brady is doing now aka big chief with the indians
Name: stuart gallagher
Email: gordonstreet@gmx.com
Date: 05 Mar 2012
Comments: Just came across the
website recently . Some wonderful pictures of Paddy McGarr and the
Gallowglass Ceili Band . They visited the North East of Scotland
regularly in the 60s and early 70s . They were my favourite
band of the time . The tops in my opinion . What a unique sound they
had . Paddy , Peggy and the rest of the band set the feet a tapping
for sure . Brings back so many happy memories . Thanks Paddy .
You'll never be forgotten . Your music will live on forever.
Name: Louie Burgoyne
Email: burgoynelouie@yahoo.ie
Date: 05 Mar 2012
Comments: Great to see all the
band boys looking so young!
Name: Paul mulholland
Email: Withheld by request
Date: 27 Feb 2012
Comments: Jim Doherty who lived
in Glarryford /Dunloy who was lead guitarist with The Walter Lewis
Showband in the 60s.with Leo McCaffrey and The Glensmen in the 70s
and American Express. He sadly passed away on Friday 24th February.
I had the pleasure of playing with him in later years. he was an
exceptional guitar player and personality. he will be sadly missed.
Paul Mulholland
Name: Greta
Email: withheld by request
Date: 25 Feb 2012
Comments: I really enjoy
your website as it allows people to find out what is going on
with the music scene . Fabulous.
Name: Derek O'Connor
Email: del_oconnor@hotmail.com
Date: 25 Feb 2012
Comments: Hi, My name is Derek
OConnor, my uncle Jim was part of the original lineup in the Nevada
Showband. Imy memories of Jim being in the band are limited as I was
born in 1970 but I do remember Jims time working for Tommy Hayden as
myself my sister and my Dad,Joe OConnor used to call to THE office
in Ballsbridge when we were kids. I remember getting loads of free
records, mainly on the Spider label, and meeting stars like shay
Healy, johnny Logan and many more. My own father Joe, was a in the
music business, he had his own business, OConnor Records, I think he
used to export Irosh music to the UK and America. I always thought
Jim was a fantastic singer and an accomplished Bass player, my own
father was a fabulous pianist, Jim spent many years in the music
business after the Nevada and sang every week in St Agnes
church,Crumlin,such was his love of singing, I'm very proud of him
and wiill always respect his contribution to the music scene in
Ireland. If anyone wants to get in touch I would be delighted to
reply or I can tell Jim to check out this site. Best regards to all
Derek
Name: paddy dunne
Email: paddydunne29@hotmail.com
Date: 20 Feb 2012
Comments: Its great i came
accross ur website its fantastic on ur piece about the dance halls
all gone well there is one in lisdoonvarna co clare and it was
renovated to a fantastic standered it such a fantastic hall
but alas its not being used hardly at all i would love to see big
bands comming there but anykind of a band want mega bucks up front
b4 they set foot in the hall wouldnt it be great to get show
bands playing all over the country again , i mean when i hear the
stories that the older generation talk about the music and
dance i mean bring it alll back :
Name: Karen
Email: Withheld by request
Date: 17 Feb 2012
Comments: hi please can you tell
me if theres any chance of getting noel brady and the indians to
perform at a party for an ederly couple who will be celebrating
thier 60th wedding anniversary at the end of march 2012 the husband
is terminally ill,please could you help us give this elderly couple
some pleasure
Editor's Note: Noel left the Indians in the late 1990's,
but try their website (sent directly to Karen via email).
Name: Rita McMahon
Email: prurita@yahoo.ca
Date: 08 Feb 2012
Comments: Trying to trace
ancestors from a very good website call Cabra History.com and was
told that a Mick O'Malley is from there who played guitar in the
Hootn'nanny's and then went onto Buckshot, don't see his name in any
of the photo's but as Manager. . Any info would be
appreciated. Thanks... Former: Rita O'Malley
Name: Albert Craig
Email: albert.craig@btinternet.com
Date: 07 Feb 2012
Comments: Hello there, I am the
missing drummer with the Oceans showband would love to hear from any
of the boys not forgetting the lovely Paula
Name: patrick comerford
Email: patrick_comerford@hotmail.com
Date: 04 Feb 2012
Comments: Hi, i want to know if
you know about the work of Pat comerford and comerford family gruop
on waterford work than you
Name: Darina
Email: Darinaob@gmail.com
Date: 31 Jan 2012
Comments: Hi there, just
wondering if anyone has pictures of the Dickie Cashman Showband,
they were from Midleton Co Cork in the 60s and 70's , would love to
see some if there are any out there, as my Dad Patrick was the Sax
player in this band. thanking you Darina
Name: Brent Packman
Email: zazen60@yahoo.com
Date: 30 Jan 2012
Comments: In 1964 Harry Mitchell
was the leader of the Golden Gate Showband at the Carousel Ballroom
in San Francisco. I was the drummer in the band. The ballroom was
owned by Bill Fuller...husband of Carmel Quinn.
Name: Sean Byrne
Email: ppdbyrne@gmail.com
Date: 28 Jan 2012
Comments: Hello from Strandhill
Name: Donal O' Sullivan
Email: osullivan.donal7@gmail.com
Date: 24 Jan 2012
Comments: Dermot Henry had a hit
with if those lips could only speak. My mother used to sing that
song and nobody ever sang it better than her not even me; but sure
the best of luck to you.
Name: Billy Gibson
Email: bill12@iprimus.com.au
Date: 24 Jan 2012
Comments: Like to wish all at
Irish Showbands all the best for 2012 keep up the good work . Billy
Gibson Sydney Australia love this Website great memories of great
times..
Name: maureen gonzales
Email: gonzalesmairin@yahoo.com
Date: 22 Jan 2012
Comments: thats my aunty phil.
Someone put up some of tinas music. Want to har some showbands
online go to bluehillradio dot com and listions to seans show friday
7-30
Name: Arthur Mclaughlin
Email: arthurmclaughlin@hotmail.co.uk
Date: 22 Jan 2012
Comments: I was a member of The
Beltona Show band Bushmills and various other bands throughout my
long musical career, thanks for the memories. Arthur
Name: jan-erik knudsen
Email: Withheld by request
Date: 15 Jan 2012
Comments: Hello. I'm doing some
reseach for a book and this is what I really need some help with: -
Some information about one or two popular dance halls in Belfast (or
just one) around 1973-76, mostly visited by Catholics (I assume prot/cath
didn't mingle very much in those years in the dance halls, but
correct me if I'm wrong). I would need some details, like what the
inside looked like, how many floors, opening hours etc.etc. Also
great if you could mention some bands playing there, month and year
would be great, but month I know would be difficult to remember(!) -
I would also like to get some info on protestant dance halls, same
information. One or two good/interesting stories would also be
appreciated. Thanks a million! Best wishes JE
(Editor's note: As you requested your email be withheld,
I'm not sure how people will communicate with you if they have any
of this info.)
Name: oliver crehan
Email: olivermcrehan@yahoo.ie
Date: 14 Jan 2012
Comments: Hi My Brother played
with the Gary Green and his Glamour Band (1977), Magic Band
(1978-80) and Chips (1981). His name is Poriag Crehan and is now
living in Athboy.
(Editor's note: Thanks for the info, we will add it to
our musician's directory)
Name: Noel Fisher
Email: noelfisher52@gmail.com
Date: 08 Jan 2012
Comments: I played with Hugh
McLean and The Mighty Avons album Another 22 dancing hits and was
wondering where I could get a copy of it as I played the keyboard
and sang 3 songs
Name: frank nash
Email: franknashandband@hotmail.com
Date: 07 Jan 2012
Comments: drummer with the
showbands great time's. Love the site my brother mick nash was a
drummer too god bless all
Name: Noel Gallagher
Email: noelgallagher05@gmail.com
Date: 06 Jan 2012
Comments: Bring back the
showbands. Whatever happened to the Memories showband (early 70s).
(Editor's note: The Memories story is here:
http://www.irish-showbands.com/Bands/memories.htm)
Name: Pat Cousins
Email: patcousins@carnewcommunitycare.ie
Date: 06 Jan 2012
Comments: Hi Liam just heard from my friend Cyril about this
website I am really enjoying going thru' it and I will do so more
and more often from now on .
Name: Cyril Wilkinson
Email: withheld as it is a non-working email address
Date: 05 Jan 2012
Comments: Just a little note to
Nora Quinn a very happy New Year Nora just in case my last one
didn't get to you the song you want is ''Cottage By The Sea'' a
number written and originally performed by Gerry Carney. Always
delighted to be able to help.OK? Good Luck.
Editor's Note: Cyril, please send me an email to
ggallagher@gmsproductions.com, not a guestbook entry. Thanks.
All emails to you @ sunbeam.ie and sunbeamhouseservices.ie have been
returned as undeliverable or no such address.
Name: Bernard Hyland
Email: withheld as it is a non-working email address
Date: 30 Dec 2011
Comments: Hi there and my
heartiest congratulations to everyone involved on such a well
put-together website my comment is when are we going to get on
re-release an album by Tony Keeling and the Graduates containing
all their hits like ''Kelly'', It's A Crying Shame'', ''Edelweiss'',
Just My Baby And Me, ''Angel'' (written by Tommy Swarbrigg) and
''Anything That's Part Of You'' and many more.? Bernard Hyland.
Name: paulette coulter
Email: paulette@bcoulter.wanadoo.co.uk
Date: 28 Dec 2011
Comments: please can you give me
any information on ben dolan and the group if there is any cds or
dvds out yet thanks ?
Editor: All the info we have is on the site. You might
try posting a request on our forum for more info.
Name: Cyril Wilkinson
Email: withheld as it is a non-working email address
Date: 28 Dec 2011
Comments: To: Geraldine ---The
Indians track that sports the lyrics ''oogaloogalushka '' is not
''One Song Away'' but ''Squaws Along The Yukon'' I hope that put
that little matter to rest for you Geraldine. All the best. Cyril.
Name: Derek Dawson
Email: derekpdawson@hotmail.com
Date: 28 Dec 2011
Comments: Great site brings back
fond memories" happy days" Derek Dawson Cromwell
Name: pete kinsey
Email: pete_kinsey@yahoo.co.uk
Date: 27 Dec 2011
Comments: Recently while talking
to a friend who was in a showband for a while, they made a comment
that suprised me, that I should forget about the showbands. but for
me and most other people we should never forget the showbands,
whether we were fans, musicians or singers is immaterial.The
showbands are as much a part of Irelands musical heritage as the
boybands of today,as important as the rock groups or traditional
music.The showbands for me still on,Larry still performs, so does
Big Tom, Gina and the Champions etc, , new artistes like Crystal
Swing and Mike Denver carry on the tradition!
Name: Pauric Doyle
Email: withheld as it is a non-working email address
Date: 26 Dec 2011
Comments: Hi Everyone I just
discovered this fabulous new site and one to which I will definitely
return my grandmother used to take in showband artists as
lodgers in her former home in Main Street, Carnew including members
of the Smokey Mountain Ramblers.that featured George Kaye & Pat Ely
What wonderful memories these are to keep Pauric.
Name: Brian McPherson
Email: withheld as it is a non-working email address
Date: 26 Dec 2011
Comments: Hi everyone and may I
wish you all a very happy New Year Just discovered your website
excellent stuff altogether
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