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Musicians Directory: In Memory

A-D      E-M on this page        N-Z   201       Back to main Directory

It is a sad fact that we are all getting older far too quickly. Since the Showband Era started 45 years ago, many of the musicians who made up it's ranks are advancing in age. We take this opportunity to pay tribute to the many stars on whom the curtain has come down all too soon.  

If you would like pay tribute to someone by adding them to this list, click here to let us know. If the last name is highlighted, click on it for more info! We are trying to get photos of all musicians here. Please let us know if you have one, we especially would like photos from the showband era.

Photo Last, First Home Town Instrument(s) Bands
Eagleton,
Kevin
Tuam,
Co. Galway
Vocals Paramount Showband
(Kevin's daughter, Eileen, wrote to tell us that he sadly passed
away on May 2, 2003 at the age of 63 due to complications from a
brain aneurysm in San Francisco, California)
Ellis,
Frank
Sligo,
Co. Sligo
Drums Duskey Family Roadshow
(Frank sadly passed away Jan. 4, 2013)
In the early days of the showband era much of rural Ireland got its
entertainment from traveling road shows like the Duskeys who
traveled the length and breadth of Ireland and England with their
own brand of family entertainment. Frank was the father of Sandy
Kelly and Barbara Ellis and was once married to the late
Maisie McDaniel. He will be sadly missed by his family and
friends in Ireland and the UK.  
English,
Jimmy*
  Bass/Fiddle Des Smith & The Collegemen
(sadly passed away)
Fahy,
Jerry*
Tuam,
Co. Galway
Vocals Jerry Fahy & The Fleet, Niagra Showband
(Jerry sadly passed away-John Baird)
Jerry was also the drummer with the Niagra Showband. After the
Fleet he emigrated to Canada where he formed a country band
called Branded Man. He was tragically killed in a car accident while
living in Canada. (From John Baird).
Falahee,
Mick
Limerick Sax Berwyn Showband, Donie Collins Band
(Mick sadly passed away)
Fallon,
Bernie
Sligo,
Co. Sligo
Drums St. Mary's Ceili Bandshow, Smokey Mountain Ramblers,
Rocky Tops (Bernie sadly passed away on 23rd October, 2007)
Bernie was an original member and drummer with The Smokey
Mountain Ramblers and The Rocky Tops. He started his career
playing with the St. Mary's Ceili Bandshow before joining Pat Ely's
band in the mid 1960's, along with long time band mate Tommy
Higgins. After leaving the showband scene in the early 70's
Bernie played the Sligo pub scene for many years before retiring
from playing several years ago.
Farrell,
Paddy*
Laytown,
Co. Westmeath
Guitar Dermot O'Brien's Clubmen, Dee Jays Showband
(sadly Paddy passed away)
Farrelly,
Dick
Dublin,
Co. Dublin
Keyboards/Gtr Keltic Wine, Hoot'nanny's, Rob Strong's Rockets
(told by his son Gerard that Dick sadly passed away in 1990)
Faulkner,
Jimmy
Dublin,
Co. Dublin
Guitar Floating Dublin Blues Band, Session musician
(sadly Jimmy passed away March 4, 2008)
Although never in  showband, Jimmy was one of Ireland's finest
guitar players. He started out on the Dublin group scene in the
late 1960's but soon gravitated towards jazz and traditional music.
He played on albums and toured with a wide variety of artists
including Paul Brady, Christy Moore, Ronnie Drew, Don Baker,
and many more. 
Fay,
Cel*
Belfast,
Co. Antrim
Trumpet Senators Showband
(sadly Cel passed away - Mike McVicker)
Fearon,
Brian
Dungannon,
Co. Tyrone
Bass Brendan Hughes & The Huskeys
(Brian sadly passed away - Colum McCaffrey)
Feeney,
Joe
Longford,
Co. Longford
Sax Hi-Lows
(The original sax player with the Hi-Lows, we were told he has
sadly passed away by Sharon Tighe-Mooney)
Fennessey,
Frank
Clonmel,
Co. Tipperary
Keyboards Tommy Weston Dance Band
(Frank sadly passed away - John Ryan)
Finlay,
Brian*
Co. Cavan Drums Mighty Avons
(Brian sadly passed away in December, 2002)
Fisher,
Sammy*
Ramelton,
Co. Donegal
Guitar Envoys Showband
(Sammy sadly passed away)
Fitzgerald,
Richard
Bundoran,
Co. Donegal
Accordion Richie Fitzgerald Ceili Band
(Richie sadly passed away in February, 2007)
Along with Dermot O'Brien, Richie was one of the true stars of
the Irish entertainment scene before the domination of the
showbands in the 1960's. Along with his sister Kathleen and
brother Barney, he was also one of the top recording stars of the
Ceili era in the 1950's. After leaving the road, Richie opened the
popular Fitzgerald's Music Centres, of which there were nine
across Ireland and England in the 1980's. He continued to perform
with Barney from time to time until his passing in 2007.
Fitzgerald,
Tom
Birr,
Co. Offaly
Vocals Conquerors
(Tom sadly passed away 6th July, 2014)
 
Fitzpatrick,
Paul
Newry,
Co. Down
Keyboards Dreams
(20 year old Paul was killed in a motorcycle accident-Sept, 1979)
Paul had been keyboard player and vocalist with the Newry based
pop band, The Dreams for two and a half years and was a
promising young talent on the music scene in the North. He was
killed on his motorcycle at Meigh, Co. Armagh.
Fleming,
Howard
Belfast,
Co. Antrim
Sax President's Showband
(Howard's daughter Paula Tierney emailed us to say
Howard sadly passed away in February, 2008)
Fleming,
Victor
  Trombone Clipper Carlton Showband
(Victor sadly passed away)
Flynn,
Brendan
Tuam,
Co. Galway
Sax Johnny Flynn Showband
(John Baird tells us Brendan sadly passed away)
Flynn,
Johnny
Tuam,
Co. Galway
Keyboards Johnny Flynn Showband, Johnny Flynn Sound
(Johnny sadly passed away)
Fogarty,
Mick
Cashel,
Co. Tipperary
Trumpet -
Band Leader
Mick Fogarty Showband, Southern Stars
(Mick sadly passed away)
Frawley,
John*
Limerick,
Co. Limerick
Vocals Monarchs Showband
(passed away June 27, 1989)
John was a male nurse before joining the Monarchs in 1963. He
was born in 1942 and grew up in Limerick and Dublin. He sang at
his first concert when he was 11 and came from a very musical
family. He sadly passed away in 1989 at the age of only 47. As far
as we know, he only released one single with the Monarchs,
Pearly Shells, in 1967.
Frieberg,
Carl
  Sax Mick Delahunty Orchestra
(Cyril sadly passed away February 27, 2008 - Sandra Clancy)
Fullard,
Cyril
Tuam,
Co. Galway
Sax Galway Blazers, Raindrops, Philosophers, Olly Maloney Showband
(Cyril sadly passed away February 27, 2008 - Sandra Clancy)
Fuller,
Bill
Kilflynn,
Co. Kerry
Manager Crystal Ballroom, Town & Country Club, Old Sheiling Hotel (all in
Dublin), Atlantic Ballroom (Tramore), Teach Furbo (Spiddal).  

(Bill sadly passed away at age 91 in Santa Monica, CA)
At one point he owned 23 ballrooms across Ireland, England
and the US including the famous Filmore West in San Francisco.
He was also a concert promoter including people like Billie
Holiday and Jerry Lee Lewis and he was a major promoter of
Irish acts in Las Vegas where he lived at one time. 
Furlong,
Clem
  Keyboards? Mick Delahunty Orchestra
(Clem sadly passed away - John Ryan)
Gaffney,
Peter
  Sax Mick Delahunty Orchestra
(Peter sadly passed away - John Ryan)
Gallagher,
Bridie
Creeslough,
Co. Donegal
Vocals Solo Star
(Bridie sadly passed away 9th January, 2012)
Came to prominence in 1956 with her recording of A Mother's
Love Is A Blessing and became Ireland's first female superstar.
For over 50 years Bridie thrilled audiences around the world with
her songs of Ireland in a simpler time. She was 87.
Gallagher,
Davy
    Paddy Cole Superstars
(Davy sadly passed away  - Eugene McColgan)
Gallagher,
Francie*
Stewartstown,
Co. Tyrone
Drums Malachy Doris Trio
(Francie sadly passed away - Eddie Doris)
Gallagher,
Jimmy*
Derry,
Co. Derry
Sax Lakewood Swingtette, Mighty Rhythm Boys
(Jimmy sadly passed away -John Baird)
Gallagher,
Johnny
Donegal   Margo and the Keynotes
(Johnny passed away in early May, 2005)
Gallagher,
Rory
Ballyshannon,
Co. Donegal
Guitar/Vocals Fontana Showband, (became Impact Showband), Taste, Solo
(sadly passed away in 1995)
One of Ireland's greatest and best loved showmen, Rory was
the inspiration for a generation of guitar players in the early
1970's when Irish rock was in its infancy. After a short stint on
the showband scene he formed Taste, one of the greatest power
power trios of all time and eventually went solo, garnering a
reputation as one of the world greatest blues guitarists.
Garland,
Billy
Belfast,
Co. Antrim
Drums The Circle, The Imposters  
(sadly passed away on the 18th Dec, 2012 - Giovanni Flavell)
Gavin,
Seamus
Castlebar,
Co. Mayo
Bass Brose Walsh Orchestra
(passed away in February, 1998)
Geraghty,
Martin
Kilbride,
Co. Meath
Guitar/Vocals Ian Corrigan and Country Style, Mighty Avons
(we received an email from Catriona Donnelly telling us the sad
news that Martin passed away on July 13, 2009)
Geraghty,
Tony*
Kimmage,
Co. Dublin
Guitar Miami Showband
(killed by terrorists on July 31, 1975)
Gill,
Earl
Dublin,
Co. Dublin
Trumpet Sean Dunphy and the Hoedowners
(Earl sadly passed away 4th May, 2014)

Earl got his start in the 50's playing with other bands around
Dublin. The Hoedowners started life as the resident band in the
Shelbourne Hotel in Dublin. In fact, as were many bands of the
day, they were actually more of an orchestra. During the winter
the band played in the hotel ballroom, but during the summer
they hit the road. He became one of Ireland's most talented
arrangers and session musicians throughout his career.  
Gilmore,
Colm
Kircubbin,
Co. Down
Vocals Colm & the Sundowners
(Colm's niece Aine, wrote to let us know that Colm sadly passed
away August 19, 1997)
Glover,
Dave
Belfast,
Co. Antrim
Trumpet Bob Robison Band, Dave Glover Showband
(Dave sadly passed away age 85 on 27th April, 2009)

Dave was a legend in the North where he was one of the top band
leaders from the 50's through the showband era. He has said he
was the first to coin the term "showband." He was married to
Muriel Day, who appeared in the Eurovision for Ireland in 1969.
Dave continued to play regularly with his own jazz band till a year
before his death.
Grace,
Chris
  Vocals Donie Collins Band, Raindrops Showband
(Chris sadly passed away in August, 2010 - John Conneely and
Maria Butler)
Graham,
Ernie*
  Guitar/Vocals Telstars, The People, Eire Apparent
(sadly passed away in 2001 - M.Niblett)
Griffin
Liam
  Drums Johnny Quigley All Stars
(Liam sadly passed away on the 26th of February, 1992 -
Philip Walker)
Gunner,
Jim
Wexford,
Co. Wexford
Guitar Dave Glover Showband, Swingtime Aces
(a.k.a. George Hesse - sadly passed away)
Hackett,
Joe
Longford,
Co. Longford
Drums Hi-Lows
(sadly passed away -Sharon Tighe Mooney)
Hafford,
Tommy
  Trumpet Mick Delahunty Band
(sadly passed away in May, 2002)
Halferty,
Jimmy
Lavey,
Co. Derry
Trombone/
Guitar
Green Angels, Swingtime Aces
(Jimmy's Granddaughter, Claire McLaughlin,
wrote to tell us Jimmy sadly passed away April 9, 1991)
Hamilton,
Sean*
  Bass Plattermen
(sadly passed away on July 19, 2003)
Hand,
Jim
Drogheda,
Co. Louth
Manager Capitol Showband, Dermot O'Brien and the Clubmen,
Cahir O'Doherty and the Dazzle Band, Fureys.
(sadly passed away June 16, 1975)

Jim, died aged 64 following a long illness, was the guiding light
behind many of the country's best known entertainers. He
managed the Dubliners, the Capitol Showband and the Fureys.
Originally from Drogheda, he was a twin brother of the late
Sunday Independent editor Michael Hand.
Hannon,
Frankie
Tuam,
Co. Galway
Drums Johnny Flynn Showband
(sadly passed away June 16, 1975)
Hanratty
John
Walterstown,
Co. Louth
Sax George Duffy Orchestra
(sadly passed away - Tom McCaffrey)
Hardy,
John
Raheny,
Co. Dublin
Keyboards Blue Clavons, Crickets Showband
(John sadly passed away aged 87 on 28th July, 2011 - Vyra Hardy)
Harkin,
Brian
Derry,
Co. Derry
Vocals Mighty Avons, Brian Harkin & The Plainsmen
(Brian sadly passed away on January 28, 1991)
Harper,
Kevin
  Sax Avonairs Showband
(Kevin sadly passed away - Liam O'Reilly)
Harrington,
John
Dublin,
Co. Dublin
Unknown We Four
(John sadly passed away 1st March, 2013)
Harrington,
Robert
Dublin,
Co. Dublin
Guitar Irish Travellers
(Robert sadly passed away-Tom Greeley)
Harrison,
William
Derry,
Co. Derry
Unknown Statesiders Showband
(William was sadly killed in an auto accident on the way
home from a gig on November 21, 1964 with four other members
of the band. The Statesiders band was devastated and never
reformed-John Baird)
Haussman,
Benno*
Cork,
Co. Cork
Drums Regal Showband, Arrivals Showband
(Benno was tragically killed in a boating accident in 1990)
Haverty,
Pascal
Dublin,
Co. Dublin
Sax Virginians, Billy Brown Superband, Chessmen
(Pascal sadly passed away March 14, 2008)
Hayden,
Tommy
London,
England
Sax/Manager Nevada Showband
(Tommy sadly passed away April 20, 2013)
A founding member of the famous Nevada Showband, Tommy played sax
with the band until 1967 when he moved into management. He soon
became one of the most successful managers in the country and
started the careers of many in the business included Louis Walsh. Tommy
Hayden Enterprises (THE) guided the careers of many of Ireland's best
known artists and was a driving force behind the success of the
showband era.  
Hayes,
Gerry
  Unknown Melochords Showband, The Cadets
(Gerry sadly passed away in 4004 - Eileen Martin - his sister)
Healy,
John*
  Trumpet Savoy Swing Seven
(John sadly passed away)
Henchel,
Horst*
Germany Sax Odeon Showband, Mick Delahunty Orchestra
(Horst sadly passed away)
Higgins,
Francie*
Tuam,
Co. Galway
Sax Swingtime Aces, Raindrops. Big Time Showband
(sadly passed away)
Higgins,
Gerry
Co. Dublin Vocals Deep Set, Creoles, Chimes, Caroline Crew
(passed away in 2002)
Hopkins,
Billy
Bray,
Co. Wicklow
Bass Prince Vince and the Kings Showband, Royal Showband,
Airchords, Cluskey/Hopkins Jass Band
(Billy sadly passed away 16th Feb, 2010-Des Hopkins)
Hutchinson,
Brendan*
Omagh,
Co. Tyrone
Vocals Navak Showband, Lightning Express
(Brendan, Shay's brother, sadly passed away - John Baird)
Hutchinson,
Shay*
Omagh,
Co. Tyrone
Vocals Melody Aces
(Shay sadly passed away January 17, 2004)
Inglesby,
Gene
Trim,
Co. Meath
Banjo/Guitar Cotton Mill Boys, Nevada
(Gene sadly passed away January 4, 1990)
Irvine,
George
Derry,
Co. Derry
Vocals Hawgs Showband, SOS, Friends Showband
(George passed away in 2001, aged 48-Leslie Thompson)
Isdell,
Fred*
Belfast,
Co. Antrim
Bass Dominoes, The Group
(passed away in 2004)
Ivory,
Tom
*
Dublin,
Co. Dublin
Manager Olympic Ballroom, Dublin (sold the ballroom in 1972)
(passed away in 1983)
Tom purchase the ballroom in the late 1940's after the roof had
collapsed under a fall of snow. Ho owned the landmark ballroom
until 1972. It is now a block of apartments/office space. Our
thanks to Tom Ivory Jr. for the info about his Dad.
Jack,
Cecil
Ballymagory
Strabane,
Co. Tyrone
Vocals and
Guitar
Enabarts
(Cecil sadly passed away around 2008 or 9- Peter Gray)
 
Johnson,
Martin
Dundalk,
Co. Louth
Guitar Smokey Mountain Ramblers, Rocky Tops, Cotton Mill Boys
(Martin sadly passed away in October, 2002- Al Owens)
Martin moved to the UK in the mid 70's where met Roscommon
drummer, Al Owens and formed Stagecoach with Billy Finnegan
in 1979. Three years later Billy moved to Co. Armagh and started
a new band and within a short time, Martin joined the band which
they also called Stagecoach.After that Martin did solo and duo
gigs around Dundalk but sadly passed away in October 2002.
Our thanks to Al for the update.
Johnstone,
Billy
Belfast,
Co. Antrim
Vocals Oceans Showband
(Billy sadly passed away in the mid 2000's-Eric Stephenson)
Joys,
Derek*
  Vocals Derek Joys Bandshow
(sadly passed away in October 1997)
Kane,
Ricky
Tuam,
Co. Galway
Vocals Olly Maloney Showband
(Ricky sadly passed away in March, 2006)
 
Kealey,
Colm

The poem at
right was
written
by Colm's
brother
Patrick.

  Drums Ramblin Men, Buckaroos, Polka Dots
(Colm sadly passed away on January 7, 2004)
For many years he played with bands all based around Omagh Town:
Brian’s Buckaroos’, the ‘Rambling Men’ with Philomena’s Crown
Then Declan Nerney, Eileen King and ‘Margo’ Donegal With Johnny Loughrey
bowing out he took his ‘curtain call’. If there’s showband souls in heaven
rest assured you’ll find him there. With a snare drum and a pair of sticks,
some cymbals and a chair. To practice as he started out some forty years
ago. At the ‘pie’ shop in Dungiven, ‘tween Benbradagh and the Roe.
Keane,
Danny
  Sax Maurice Mulcahy, Cajun Sound
(sadly passed away a few years ago- Michael Mulcahy)
Keane,
Mike
  Guitar/Steel Conquerors, Country Folk
(sadly passed away a few years ago)
Kearney,
Dave
Dublin,
Co. Dublin
Guitar The Movement, Smokey Mountain Ramblers, Sandie Jones Band
( sadly passed away in Canada on Jan. 14, 2010-Francie Lenehan)
Having started on the beat scene in Dublin with The Movement,
Dave went country in the late sixties when he joined the original
Smokey Mountain Ramblers, one of the first successful country
outfits in Ireland. He would later join the Sandie Jones band
before emigrating to Canada around 1980.
Kelly,
Billy*
  Trumpet Swingtime Aces Showband, Johnny Flynn Showband
(Billy was killed in a car accident-John Baird)
 
Kelly,
Ciaran
Athlone,
Co. Westmeath
Accordion Ciaran Kelly Sound (Grandfather of Keith and Lorraine McDonald,
he sadly passed away in 2007)
Ciaran had his own band in the Mildands for many years and it
was with Ciaran that Brendan Shine got his start back in the
late 1960's before becoming a superstar in his own right. Our
thanks to Annette Kelly for the photo.
 
Kelly,
Danny
Tuam,
Co. Galway
Piano Johnny Flynn Dance Band (Father of Danny Kelly, Jr.)
(Sadly passed away)
 
Kelly,
John*
Turloughmore,
Co. Galway
Drums Capitol Showband (Brother of Des Kelly)
(Sadly passed away October 25, 1987)
Along with brother, Des, John was a founder member of the
Capitol Showband. 
Kelly,
Michael
Ballinrobe,
Co. Mayo
Guitar Jack Ruane Band, Margo
(Sadly passed away 13th May, 2013 - Bernard Joyce)
 
Kennedy,
Michael*
Arklow,
Co. Wicklow
Guitar Homers Knods
(Liam O'Reilly tells us Michael sadly passed away at a very young
age)
Michael was a singer-guitarist with the 60's folk group, Homers
Knods from Arklow. He sadly passed away at a very young age
while the band was still on the road.
 
Kennedy,
Paddy
Galway,
Co. Galway
Manager Regal Showband
(Pat Schan wrote to tell us Paddy sadly passed away in 2003)
Paddy left show business and emigrated to England in 1967.
He worked in Africa for many years in the telecom industry
before retiring back to Galway in the 80's. He moved back to
England in the 90's and passed away in 2003 in Hove, East Sussex.
 
Kenny,
Derek
Dublin,
Co. Dublin
Bass Tomorrow's People, Galaxy Band
(Derek sadly passed after a short battle with cancer in March,
2007 - from Danny Carthy)
 
Kenny,
Paul
  Drums Cotton Mill Boys
(Paul sadly passed away while still playing with the Cotton Mill
Boys in the early 70's).
  
Kenny,
Sean
Boyle,
Co.
Roscommon
Guitar Hi-Lows, Jivenaires, Times, Swarbriggs Band, Dingaling
(Sean sadly passed away 9th Feb, 2011) 
Kenrick,
Billy
Fethard,
Co. Tipperary
Keyboards Mick Delahunty Orchestra
(Billy sadly passed away in 1973).
After Billy and Mick Delahunty retired from the band scene,
they used to play regularly in a local pub and proved very popular
with former fans of the band - from Brian Kenrick-Billy's son. 
Kerr,
John*
Fanad,
Co. Donegal
Vocals/
Promoter
Classic Dance Band, One of Ireland's best loved ballad singers
(John McGrenra wrote to tell us John sadly passed away
April 25, 2006)
As well as a long career as one of County Donegal's best loved
balladeers, John also ran the Mulroy Ballroom in Kerrykeel. His long
recording career was documented on many albums, singles and
CD's. He will be missed.  
Kettles,
Cecil*
Enniskillen,
Co.Fermanagh
Keyboards Skyrockets Showband
(sadly passed away June 20, 2000)
Krzyzanowski,
Thad
  Guitar Real Country, Bluegrass Roadshow
(We understand Thad was killed in an airplane crash in the
1970's. Thad was the brother of Smokey's fiddler George Kaye.)
Kyle,
Bobby
  Manager Cossacks Showband
(Bobby sadly passed away in March, 2005)
Laird,
Davey
  Trumpet Marines Showband
(sadly passed away)
Lamont,
Tommy
  Guitar Cossacks Showband
(passed away in 2003)
Landy,
Paddy
Skerries,
Co. Dublin
Drums Tony & The Graduates
(Paddy sadly passed away in early July, 2006 - Eoghan Hickey)
Lawlor,
Willie
  Guitar Quartermasters, Echos Showband
(Willie sadly passed away - Liam O'Reilly)
Lee,
Connie
Granard,
Co. Longford
Vocals Lee and Quo
(Connie sadly passed away in December, 2002)
Lee,
Eamonn
Arklow,
Co. Wicklow
Guitar Red Seven Showband, Avonairs Showband, Swingin' Sailors
(Eamonn sadly passed away the first week in March, 2006
our thanks to Liam O'Reilly for passing the info along to us)
 
Lehane,
John
  Sax Impact Showband 
(John sadly passed away some time ago)
 
Logue,
Terry
  Sax Clipper Carlton
(Terry sadly passed away)
Long,
Daniel "Don"
Cork,
Co. Cork
Trombone Capitol Showband, Donie Collins Band
(Don sadly passed away October 29, 2007 in Chesire, England
where he had lived since 1969).
After leaving the Capitol in 1969, Don emigrated to Manchester
where he continued to play trombone in a variety of jazz bands
until his death. He was 69 and was stricken with cancer a year
before he died. He will be sadly missed by his showband era
colleagues and family and friends in Ireland.  
Long,
Jim
Cookstown,
Co. Tyrone
  Colours Showband
(Jim sadly passed away)
Loughman,
Pat
Raheny,
Co. Dublin
Trombone Capitol Showband 
(Pat sadly passed away April 21, 2011 in Dublin).
An original member of the famous Capitol Showband, Pat gave up
the showband scene in the early 60's, but never stopped
performing. Over the years, he played with The Dublin City
Concert Band as well as the Communications Worker's Band and
was active on the music scene up until the time of his death.
Loughman,
Tony
Castleblaney,
Co. Monaghan
Manager Paddy Cole Superstars / Eileen King's Country Gifts
Patrice & Stage Five / Philomena Begley & her Ramblin' Men
Susan McCann & the Storytellers / Shelly & The Big Valley
Anne, Shelly & The Marines / Big Ivan & The New County
Sharon & Green Forest
(Sadly, Tony passed away June 1, 2007)
One of the true movers and shakers of the band scene in the 70's
and 80's Tony was one of the guiding lights behind the Irish
Country music success which followed the showbands.
Lucy,
Murt
Cork,
Co. Cork
Manager Arrivals & several ballrooms
(Murt sadly passed away in April, 1971 at the age of 47)
Murt was one of the early pioneers of the showband scene in his
native Cork. Along with brother, Jerry, he owned the Stardust
Ballroom in Cork, the Majorca in Crosshaven, the Redbarn in
Youghal. In 1963 he was a co-founder of Spotlight Magazine with
John Coughlan which became the bible of the Irish entertainment
scene for nearly two decades.
Lundy,
Tommy*
Dublin,
Co. Dublin
Guitar Tony Kenny Band, The Crack
(Tommy sadly passed away in October, 2003 - our thanks to
Maria Lundy)
Lynam,
Johnny
Moate,
Co. Westmeath
Bass Ray Lynam and the Hillbillies
(Johnny sadly passed away on 21st of August, 2007 after a long
illness).
Lynch,
David*
Dublin,
Co. Dublin
Keyboards Cotton Mill Boys
(David sadly passed away)
Lynch,
Kevin
Bantry,
Co. Cork
Sax Regal Showband
(Jim Cotter tells us Kevin sadly passed away)
Lynch,
Maurice
    Maurice Lynch Big Band
(passed away September 3, 1987)
Lynch,
Pete*
  Vocals Newline Showband
(brother of Maurice Lynch sadly passed away)
Lynch,
Phillip
Sligo,
Co. Sligo
Drums Dee Leydon & the Powermen
(Phillip sadly passed away age 53 in Thailand in October 2008
from pneumonia)
Lynch,
Steve
Cork,
Co. Cork
Guitar Dixielanders and Dixies Showband
(Steve sadly passed away in Cork on July 12, 2016.)
Lynott,
Phil*
Crumlin,
Co. Dublin
Vocals/Bass Skid Row, Orphanage, Thin Lizzy
(Phil, one of Ireland's greatest rockers, passed away Jan. 4, 1986)
Arthur Madden Madden,
Arthur* 
  Keyboards Airchords, Royal, Red Hurley Band
(Arthur sadly passed away in 1988)
Maguire,
Noel* 
  Sax Echos Showband
(Noel sadly passed away - Liam O'Reilly)
Noel played sax with the Echos and was also the leader of the band
Maher,
Eddie
Drogheda,
Co. Louth
Drums Maher Family, Rockets
(Eddie Maher, former drummer with the Maher Family and with
the Rockets, passed away suddenly in Drogheda on 23rd March,
2009.)
The Maher family came to fame when they were winners on
Hughie Green's Opportunity Knocks. Eddie played drums with his
brother Dave in the Rockets. He was the son of former Champion
handballer Joey Maher. His three brothers, Michael, Dave and
Robbie and sister Linda were all involved in the music business. 

Mahon,
Sean
Belfast,
Co. Antrim
Trombone John Mitchell Showband, Freshmen
(Sean sadly passed away May 29th, 2009)
Sean was a founding member of the Freshmen in the early sixties
and remained one of only two members (along with Tory McGahey)
that remained with the band from the start until 1974. Although
Billy Brown and Derek Dean were with the band longer, Billy left
in the early 70's to form his own bands before returning, while
Derek didn't join until 1964.. 

Mahood,
Sam
Belfast,
Co. Antrim
Vocals Soul Foundation
(Sam sadly passed away - from George Porter)

Maitland,
Danny
Belfast,
Co. Antrim
Guitar/Vocals Matadors Showband
(Danny sadly passed away Jan. 4, 1978)

Maitland,
Walter
Belfast,
Co. Antrim
Drums Witnesses Showband
(Walter sadly passed away Aug. 26, 2002)
Makem,
Tommy
Keady,
Co. Armagh
Guitar and
Vocals
Clancy Brothers with Tommy Makem, Makem and Clancy,
Solo career.
(Tommy sadly passed away on August 1, 2007 of lung cancer
at age 74)
Mallett,
Bill
Waterside,
Co. Derry
Unknown Statesiders Showband
(Bill was sadly one of four Mallett brothers killed in an auto 
accident on the way home from a gig on November 21, 1964. The
Statesiders band was devastated and never reformed-John Baird)
Mallett,
James
Waterside,
Co. Derry
Unknown Statesiders Showband
(James was sadly one of four Mallett brothers killed in an auto 
accident on the way home from a gig on November 21, 1964. The
Statesiders band was devastated and never reformed-John Baird)
Mallett,
Jerry
Waterside,
Co. Derry
Unknown Statesiders Showband
(Jerry was sadly one of four Mallett brothers killed in an auto 
accident on the way home from a gig on November 21, 1964. The
Statesiders band was devastated and never reformed-John Baird)
Malone,
Jim
Ranelagh,
Co. Dublin
Sax Margo and Co, Trixons, Jim Farley Band
(Breda Lalanne emailed us to say Jim sadly passed away some
time ago and our thanks to Brian Wynne for info on Jim as well)
Maloney,
Jarlath
Tuam,
Co. Galway
Trombone Pete Brown's Band of Renown, Olly Maloney Showband
(Jarlath sadly passed away on the 24th June, 2011)
Maloney,
Olly
Tuam,
Co. Galway
Trumpet Olly Maloney Showband, Johnny Flynn Showband, Ohio Showband
(Olly sadly passed away)
Martin,
Freddie*
  Trumpet Pacific Showband
(Freddie sadly passed away)
Massey,
Danny
Newcastlewest,
Co. Limerick
Trumpet/Vcls Donie Collins Showband
(Danny sadly passed away Jan 28, 1987 - our thanks to
Anne McSharry, his daughter)
McBride,
Ivan
Enniskillen,
Co. Fermanagh
Sax Trenniers, Skyrockets Showband
(Ivan emigrated to Tasmania where he lived for 30 years
before his death 10th Nov, 2012 - From Alec McKeown)
McCafferty,
John
Stranorlar,
Co. Donegal
Keyboards Mighty Avons, Homesteaders
(John sadly passed away on 26th July, 2016 - Rita McGinty)
McCaffrey,
Leo
Ballymena,
Co. Antrim
Vocals/
Manager
Leo McCaffrey & The Glensmen
(Leo sadly passed away in 2003)
McCaffrey,
Michael
Creeslough,
Co. Donegal
Manager Creeslough Hall, Co. Donegal
(Michael sadly passed away on December 7, 2005)
McCarthy,
Bram
Cork,
Co. Cork
Trumpet Capitol Showband
(passed away October 28, 1987)
McConville,
Ivan
Rathfriland,
Co. Down
Vocals (A.K.A. Big Ivan) Big Ivan Band, Big Ivan & Lightning Express
(sadly killed in a car accident in 1979)
Our thanks to Ivan's former band mate, Mike Niblett for the info.
McCormack,
Derek
  Vocals Dermot O'Brien's Clubmen, The Barleycorn, The Furey Brothers
(Derek sadly passed away Jan, 2004)
McCormick,
John
Castleblaney,
Co. Monaghan
Manager Big Tom & The Mainliners, Gerry Black & The Seasons
(John sadly passed away in 1998)
John McCormick McCormick,
John
Belfast,
Co. Antrim
Keyboards Teddie Palmer & The Rumble Band, Spring
(John was sadly killed while mountaineering in India in 1977 -
from Pete McCormick, his nephew)
McCormick,
Sean
Cootehill,
Co. Cavan
Bass, Drums Silver Pennies, American Pie
(Sean sadly passed away February 7, 1999 in a car crash-
from his wife, Tina Kavanagh)
McCoy,
Brian
Caledon,
Co. Tyrone
Trumpet Miami Showband
(killed by terrorists on July 31, 1975)
McCracken,
John*
Buncrana,
Co. Donegal
Manager Mighty Rhythm Boys
(John sadly passed away -John Baird)
McCrudden,
Gerry
Belfast,
Co. Antrim
Bass Grenadiers Showband
(Gerry sadly passed away Feb 17, 2006 - daughter-Paula Beattie)
A founder member of the Grenadiers, he continued to play with the
band until they stopped touring. He continued to perform in clubs
around Belfast, right up until the time of his death. 
McCrudden,
Ned
  Keyboards Witnesses Showband
(Ned sadly passed away Jan 16, 2009 - from Bobby Forsythe)
 
McCullough,
Henry
Portstewart,
Co. Antrim
Guitar Skyrockets, Gene and the Gents
(Sadly passed away June 14, 2016)
After playing on the showband scene, Henry went on to play
with Joe Cocker's Grease band, Paul McCartney's Wings,
Roy Harper, Marianne Faithful, Ronnie Lane, Donovan, Frankie
Miller, Eric Burdon, Viola Wills and Spooky Tooth as well as
his own groups.
 
McDaniel,
Maisie
Sligo,
Co. Sligo
Vocals Nevada, Fendermen, Nashville Ramblers, Maisie & Fintan
(Maisie sadly passed away suddenly on the 28th June, 2008 at her
home in Sligo)
Maisie enjoyed a very successful solo career before being asked
to join the Nevada, but she would never perform with the band as
she was injured in a car accident before their first gig. She would
also front her own Fendermen, as well as the Nashville Ramblers.
She often appeared with husband Fintan Stanley in cabaret. 
She made a brief comeback on the scene in the 1980's but
had been retired from performing for many years.
 
McDonagh,
Tommy
Ballina,
Co. Mayo
Guitar Jack Ruane Band, Times Showband of Sligo and the Fairways
(Padraig Moran tells us Tommy sadly passed away the 18th of
January, 2015.)
McDonald,
Pat
  Manager Ian Corrigan and Country Style
(Anthony Loughman writes to tell us Pat, who worked with Anthony's
Dad Tony, for over 30 years sadly passed away 28th Aug, 2009)
McDonald,
Patsy
Cookstown,
Co. Tyrone
Keyboards Malachy Doris Trio
(Jonathan Byard writes to tell us Patsy sadly passed away on
16th January, 2010)
McElhinney,
Paddy*
  Trumpet Mighty Rhythm Boys
(Paddy sadly passed away -John Baird)
McErlean,
Eoin
Portglenone,
Co. Antrim
Manager Oliver Plunkett Hall, Portglenone, Co. Derry
(Eoin's son, Philip, writes to tell us his father, who managed the hall
in the 50's and 60's, sadly passed away 14th Dec, 2003)
Eoin was an original trustee of the Hall when it opened in 1954
and booked the bands for much of the 50's and 60's until it
was turned over to the local GAA club. 
McEvoy,
Bertie
  Sax Stan Lynn Showband, Silhouettes
(Ray, his son, wrote to tell us Bertie sadly passed away in
December, 2003)
McGandy,
Brian*
Enniskillen,
Co.Fermanagh
Sax Skyrockets Showband
(Brian sadly passed away a few years ago)
McGarr,
Pat
Naas,
Co. Kildare
Accordion Gallowglass Ceili Band
(Dennis Morrison writes to tell us Pat sadly passed away In
March, 2005)
McGonigle,
Pat*
Newton,
Co. Tyrone
Trombone Melody Aces Showband
(sadly passed away in April, 2005)
McGowan,
Gary
Enniskillen,
Co. Fermanagh
Drums Cecil Kettyles, Dave Dixon, Skyrockets
(Alec McKeown wrote to tell us Gary passed away 14th
April, 2012)
 
McGrail,
Stephen
Dowra,
Co. Leitrim
Manager Gaydons
(Steven's daughter, Sharon recently contacted us to let us know
the sad news that he passed away on the 5th October, 2010.)
 
McGuigan,
Pat*
(aka Pat McGeegan)
Clones,
Co. Monaghan
Vocals/Gtr Dave Dixon Orchestra, Skyrockets Showband, The Victors, Big Four
(aka Pat McGeegan - passed away 6/27/1987)
Pat was Ireland's 4th representative at
Eurovision, singing his way to a fourth place
finish with the song, "Once In A Lifetime," in
1968. After getting his start with Dave Dixon's
band, he eventually formed The Big Four and
played mostly cabaret for the next twenty
years.
McHale,
Dave
Dublin,
Co. Dublin
Sax,
Keyboards
Sandie Jones & the Boyfrields, Stagalee, Boomtown Rats
(We're told by Bobby Kelly that Dave sadly passed away in
May, 2009)
McHugh,
Harry
  Unknown Everglades Showband
(Harry sadly passed away in 1995-his daughter)
McIlduff,
Gerry*
Belfast,
Co. Antrim
Drums Green Angels, High Seas, Jimmy Johnston Showband,
Plattermen, Katmandu, Pretenders, Nipple Erectors
(Gerry sadly passed away in 2005)
McKeown,
Des*
Co. Fermanagh Guitar/Vocals Skyrockets Showband
(Des sadly passed away in 1985)
Des was the lead singer with the Skyrockets from 1963 through
1966. He left the band to return to civilian life as a technician. He
sadly passed away in 1985 at the young age of 45.
McKevitt,
Cyril

Co. Monaghan
Trombone Mainliners
(Cyril sadly passed away suddenly 15th Sept, 2009 aged 69 - John
McGrenra)
Cyril was an original member of the Mainliners Showband and
played trombone with the band for almost 50 years with a couple
of breaks in between. The band had just finished its 2009 tour on
the Sunday and Cyril passed away 2 days later.   
McIntyre,
Frank
Dublin,
Co. Dublin
Sax/Clarinet Pete Stuart Orchestra, Mick Cummins Orchestra,
Embassy Band

(Frank sadly passed away April 14, 2001 - Ursula McIntyre)
Frank's wife, Ursula, wrote to tell us Frank lived and worked for
many years in Germany until his retirement in 1995. He also spent
a short time in the States before returning to Ireland in the late
nineties. He and Ursula were married in 1989. 
McIntyre,
Joe*
Derry,
Co. Derry
Trumpet Express Showband, Jim Farley Band Show
(passed away June 13, 1981)

McKeag,
Oliver

Lurgan,
Co. Armagh
Keyboards Kerry Blues
(We received news from Oliver's son, Kevin that he sadly passed
away in October, 2014. )
McKernin,
Tommy
Belfast,
Co. Antrim
Drums Teddie and the Tigers, Signs
(Tommy's daughter, Courtney McKernin, emailed us in October,
2008 to let us know that Tommy sadly passed away in 1999.
He moved to Canada in 1972 when he was a member of the Signs
and was last in Belfast in 1998, just a year before he passed
away.)
McKinney,
Wills*
  Bass College Boys
(Teddie Palmer reports Wills was sadly killed in car accident in
2000)
McLaughlin,
Danny*
  Sax Mighty Rhythm Boys
(Danny sadly passed away -John Baird)
McLean,
Gerry*
  Trumpet Green Angels, Walter Lewis Enterprise Showband
(Gerry sadly passed away)
McLean,
Kevin*
  Drums Walter Lewis Enterprise Showband
(Kevin sadly passed away)

McLoughlin,
John
Sligo,
Co. Sligo
Bass Times Showband-Sligo
(sadly died in a boating accident in the 1980's)

McManus,
Dickie*
  Vocals Woodchoppers Showband
(emigrated to Canada, sadly passed away in Feb., 2003)

McManus,
Paul
Sligo,
Co. Sligo
Sax Stylos Showband, Chessmen
(sadly passed away suddenly 7th April, 2014)
Paul started his career with local Sligo showband, the Stylos in the
late 1960's and then went on to the Chessmen in 1969, staying
with the band until they called it quits in the early 70's. He returned
to Sligo and played with several local groups, switching from sax
to drums and then retired from the music scene. He stayed in his
native Sligo, but did not perform during the last years of his life.    
McManus,
Tommy
Derrylin,
Co. Fermanagh
Drums Mama's Boys
(passed away on November 16, 1994 of leukemia complications)
Tommy and his brothers, Pat and John McManus started out in
1978 by forming Pulse. Their first break came when they were
asked by Barry Devlin to support Horslips on an Irish Tour in 1979.
They changed their name to Mama's Boys and never looked back
scoring a hit record in the United States with appearances on
MTV in the early nineties. Tommy was only 28 when he passed
away in London.    
McNally,
Brian
Dungannon
Co. Tyrone
Bass Philomena Begley and Country Flavour
(Brian sadly died of a heart attack in 1998, aged 50)
He married a girl from a place called Teelin, Co. Donegal and
settled there.  He had 2 children, Roisin and Brian.  When the band
broke up in the 70's he played locally in bars and hotels and spent
most of his summers playing music in Lisdoonvarna.  Our thanks
to his daughter, Roisin, for the info.
McNally,
Michael
Dungannon
Co. Tyrone
Unknown Old Cross Bandshow, Philomena Begley and Country Flavour
(Pat Casey tells us Michael sadly passed away in July, 2009)
 
McNamee,
Eddie
Newt'stewart
Co. Tyrone
Multi Melody Aces Showband
(Eddie sadly passed away in March, 2007 - Liam O'Reilly)
 
McNeil,
Noel
Dublin,
Co. Dublin
Vocals Capitol Showband
(Peter West wrote us in July 2011 to say that Noel, with whom he
had played in a duo in the UK, sadly passed away in England in
the late 1990's).
 
Melville,
Jerry
  Sax Northernaires
(Jerry sadly passed away)
Molloy,
Brian
Dublin
Co. Dublin
Manager Cotton Mill Boys, Hawk Records
(passed away November 28, 2005)
Besides being the founder of Hawk and Lunar Records which
guided the recording careers of many of the era's greatest stars,
Brian also managed the Cotton Mill Boys, one of the country's
most successful country outfits, from 1969 to 1979. He later
founded Phantom FM Radio in Dublin. He passed away after a long
battle with cancer. Our thanks to Gerry Madigan for letting us
know.
Molloy,
Tony
Derry,
Co. Derry
Guitar Crescent Showband, Marines Showband, Tradewinds,
Champagne, Vogue
(Tony sadly passed away in early 2006 - Les Thompson)
Moloney,
Ollie
Tuam,
Co. Galway
Trumpet Johnny Flynn Showband, The Ohio, Ollie Maloney Band
(passed away March 23, 1994)
Monaghan,
Tony
The Downs,
Co. Westmeath
Bass Downlanders
(Tony sadly passed away)
Moore,
Butch
Dublin,
Co. Dublin
Vocals Blue Clavons, Capitol Showband, Kings
(Butch sadly passed away April 3, 2001)
Besides being the lead singer with one of Ireland's best loved
showbands, The Capitol, Butch also had the distinction of being
the first Irish representative in the Eurovision Song Contest in
1965. He sang "Walking The Streets in The Rain," which finished a
very respectable sixth. He passed away in the United States.
 
Moore,
Gary
Belfast,
Co. Antrim
Guitar Skid Row, Thin Lizzy, Solo
(Gary sadly passed away February 6, 2011 - age 58)
Gary started his career with Skid Row and and briefly joined with
Phil Lynott in Thin Lizzy after the departure of Eric Bell. Over
the years, he continued to do short stints with Lizzy as well as
building his own solo career and established himself as one of
the top guitarist in the world. He sadly passed away on 6th
February, 2011 while on holiday in Spain. He was only 58.

Morelli,
Tony
Belfast,
Co. Antrim
Guitar Witnesses, Dave Glover Band (Tony sadly passed away 15-8-12)

Morrison,
Noel
Tubbercurry,
Co. Sligo
Bass Clefonaires Showband (Noel sadly passed away)
Moulds,
Jim
    Dave Moynihan Showband
(Jim sadly passed away on March 4, 2002-Brendan Moulds)
Mulcahy,
David
Mitchelstown,
Co. Cork
Sax Maurice Mulcahy Orchestra
(David passed away in December, 1975)
Mulcahy,
Maurice
Mitchelstown,
Co. Cork
Trumpet Maurice Mulcahy Orchestra
(passed away August 21, 1963)
Mulcahy,
Michael
Mitchelstown,
Co. Cork
Sax Maurice Mulcahy Orchestra
(Mike sadly passed away August 14, 2003)
Mullen,
George
Belfast,
Co. Antrim
Trumpet Witnesses
(George sadly passed away - Mike Arkins)
Mulholland,
Barney
Armoy,
Co. Antrim
Vocals Red Barons, Young Stars
(Barney sadly passed away in 1992 in a road accident )
Mulligan,
Mick*
Charlestown,
Co. Mayo
Trombone/Keys Dixietones
(Mick sadly passed away in 2002)
Mulligan,
Paul
Dublin,
Co. Dublin
Bass Chips, Tequila Sunrise, Commitments
(Paul Lyttle wrote us to let us know the sad news that Paul passed
away suddenly 11th Nov, 2011
) For the past decade Paul played
with The Great Escape, one of the country's top corporate and
wedding bands along with Eric Sharpe of Jump The Gun. 
Murphy,
Bobby
Dublin,
Co. Dublin
Sax Arrows, Dickie's Band
(Bobby sadly passed away - Tom Foley)
Murphy,
Gerry*
    Donie Collins Band
(Gerry sadly passed away in 2002-photo from Jenny Ann Murphy)
Murphy,
Kieran*
Ballinrobe,
Co. Mayo
Guitar Margo & the Country Folk, Frank McCaffrey & the Country Folk
Frank McCaffrey's Band of Gold
(Kieran sadly passed away March 31, 2006)
Murphy,
Paddens
  Sax Sorrento Showband
(Paddens' daughter Angela Fisher, wrote to tell us that he sadly
passed away on August 7, 2005.)

Murray,
Frankie
Monaghan,
Co. Monaghan
Guitar Capitol, Sharon & Green Forest, Victors
(
We received an email from Sloan Harrington in the United
 States telling us that Frankie sadly passed away in April,
2009. A check of RIP.ie shows that Frankie died on April 6th.
)

Murray,
Jimmy
Trim,
Co. Meath
Guitar Virginians, Joe Dolan Band
(Jimmy sadly passed away)

Murray,
Jimmy
Belfast,
Co. Antrim
Vocals Regency Showband
(Jimmy's niece, Denise Smyth wroye to tell us he sadly passed away
in February, 2008))

Acknowledgements:
*Our thanks to Jimmy Compton, Brian O'Brien, Paula Beattie, Brian "Shorty" O'Kane, Danny McLaughlin, Martin Flynn, Andy Monk, Joe Dodd, Peter Kinsey, Teddie Palmer, Patrick Hoye, Karl Compton, Louis Chapman, Michael Niblett, Declan Colgan, Mick Gilligan, Michael Conway, John Baird, Paul Welch, John McGrenra, Alan Carr, Norman Bissett, Alan White, Tom Ivory Jr., Glen Brown, Dave Hynes, Ernie Corrigan, Paddy Brennan's "Golden Era of Irish Showbands," & Eugene Nixon's "He's Not Working...He's in a Band" for their assistance with many of the names on this list.

 


© 2002-2016 GMS Productions

In Loving Memory of Grant Gallagher: Sept. 21, 1990 - Nov. 18, 2006