Legendary Irish singer-songwriter Johnny McEvoy, known as the Boy From Banagher and famous for chart-topping folk hits including Muirsheen Durkin, has died aged 81 at his home in Greystones, Co Wicklow.
The Co Offaly performer died peacefully on Sunday, his manager has confirmed. Johnny began singing at just four years old and became a professional musician at 18.
Chart-topping career
He rose to fame in 1966 when his single Muirsheen Durkin reached number one in Ireland. The Boston Burglar hit number one in 1967 and Nora topped the charts in 1994.
Over a career spanning six decades, McEvoy also became known for writing songs including Long Before Your Time and Michael and The Planter's Daughter, which he wrote for his late wife Odette. McEvoy was a father to Jonathan and Alice and a grandfather to Kyle, Isabella and Cinéad.
Family tribute
His family said he will be deeply missed by friends and colleagues across the music world, and by all who loved his music. In an official statement, Jonathan and Alice said: "Dad's music meant so much to so many people, but to us he was just Dad. We're so grateful for all the love shown to him over the years."
The family thanked his fans for their "many kind messages" and for giving them privacy, adding that the funeral would be a private affair, "attended by his family, close friends and some of those he worked alongside over the years".
National reaction
Taoiseach Micheál Martin said: "Deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Johnny McEvoy - a true icon of Irish folk music."
"Through his career spanning over six decades, Johnny brought great joy to audiences who had great affection for him. My sympathies to his family, friends and fans at this time."
Country music star Nathan Carter described Johnny as "one of the finest singer songwriters to have ever graced the stage". He went on to say: "I also loved his passion for Irish history and the wonderful way he introduced and brought those great old songs to life at his shows.
"He was also a gifted songwriter, as well as a brilliant interpreter of both traditional and contemporary songs."
"He was just as lovely to meet in person, with a beautiful kindness in his speaking voice, every bit as evident as it was in his singing."
