In 1969, Tommy Makem left the Clancy Brothers and embarked on a very successful solo career that included several albums, five television series and countless concert appearances. Liam stayed with his brothers until 1973, when he too went solo. He moved to Calgary, released an album, and won a Canadian Emmy Award for his television show. Liam and Tommy were both booked separately at a festival in Cleveland in 1975, and were persuaded to perform a set together. It was such a resounding success that the two decided to team up once again, and formed the very popular Makem & Clancy.

Together the duo performed a mix of old Clancy standards and fresh new material; many of these “new” songs have become staples in the genre, much as the songs they had introduced in the sixties. Makem & Clancy stayed together for 13 years, pausing only to take part in the nostalgic Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem reunion and tour.

After the split Liam went on to form his own band, which spawned 2 videos, before he rejoined his brothers during Tom’s illness. The 4 Clancy Brothers (Pat, Tom, Liam and Bobby), along with their nephew Robbie O’Connell, made one last tour before Tom’s untimely death. Liam stayed on until 1996, when he, son Donal, and Robbie OConnell toured as the trio Clancy, OConnell & Clancy. That grouping released 2 very good albums before they went their separate ways. Liam has moved back to Ireland, runs a recording studio, wrote a book, and still tours. Tommy went solo once again. He released several albums and made regular television appearances, as well as, maintaining a very busy touring schedule—almost to the very end. Tommy Makem died on August 1, 2007.