Legendary Irish singer-songwriter Johnny McEvoy has died aged 81 at his home in Greystones, Co Wicklow. Known as the "Boy From Banagher", the Co Offaly performer died peacefully on Sunday, his manager has confirmed.
McEvoy began singing at just four years old and became a professional musician at 18, rising to prominence 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.
A Career Spanning Six Decades
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. His family said he will be deeply missed by friends and colleagues across the music world, and by all who loved his music, at home and abroad.
Tributes From Family and Fans
In a 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, and said that the funeral would be a private affair, "attended by his family, close friends and some of those he worked alongside over the years". Johnny's family also asked that their privacy be respected at this time.
Political and Musical Tributes
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 singer Nathan Carter called Johnny "one of the finest singer songwriters to have ever graced the stage". He added: "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."
