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Statement by President Michael D. Higgins on the death of Big Tom McBride

Date: Tue 17th Apr, 2018 | 11:26

“Lovers and supporters of Irish music everywhere will have heard the news of the death of Big Tom McBride with sadness.

As one of the most charismatic and influential artists in Irish country music, Big Tom was widely respected and through his five decades of music making he leaves a lasting legacy.

His name will be recalled with fond memory by those who listened, and danced to, his and his band members’ generous nights of entertainment all over the island of Ireland.

A big personality and one of the country’s greatest country stars, his love of music and his passion and skill have enriched Ireland’s music scene. 

As President of Ireland I wish to express my deepest sympathies to his children Thomas, Dermot, Aisling and Siobhan, the members of his family, his friends and to the countless numbers of people, at home and abroad who loved the man and his music.”