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: 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: myrnaoloughlin@gmail.com
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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