A friend of mine called me from Spain this morning after hearing on the online versoin of RTE's sports news that Dermot O'Brien had passed away. Dermot was a good friend to the website and had sent me several emails detailing parts of his career, but he had not been well for some time, even though he still was playing gigs in the United States. The original Merry Ploughboy was one of the earliest "crossover"  bands as his accordion playing and smooth vocals made the jump to the ballroom scene with ease. His Clubmen were one of the early successful showbands, although Dermot eventually emigrated to the States where he lived and continued to play and record until his death. Our heartfelt condolences go out to Dermot's family and friends. He will be missed. Strangely enough, my last email to Dermot was asking if he knew Richie Fitzgerald, another accordion great with whom I played. He said he had met him a time or two, but they were not friends. Now both of them are gone and Ireland's musical heritage is a little bleaker for it.

Sad to  hear of Dermot's passing. We have lost a fine musician and great Irishman. All Ireland medal winner and fluent in his native language he effortlessly crossed the divide between trad' and commercial music without ever losing his integrity....... Talent will always prevail.

Sleep well Dermot

Barry

Sad news, another showband great depated this life. Great musician, talented producer Dermot O'Brien R.I.P.