Old News and Hearsay

November 21, 2006

Here are some interesting Irish folk releated videos I've found on“YouTube”. If you've visited“YouTube” you already know there are a lot of crapola videos—mixed in with some gems. I am only posting links to video clips NOT taken off off recent commercial video (DVD) releases (to my knowledge—I'm not sure about the Johnny McEvoy clips).

The Dubliners: These appear to be from German and Swedish television - circa early/mid 1970's, and featuring both Luke Kelly and Ciarán Bourke.
  Off to Dublin
  Peggy Lettermore—featuring Ciarán Bourke
  Black Velvet Band
  Weila Waile
  Wheels Of The World Sligo Maid
  Octopus Jig

Johnny McEvoy: These may be taken from a commercial video (DVD)
  The Dublin Fusiliers
  Michael

The Clancy Brothers with Robbie O'Connell & Tommy Makem:
  When The Ship Comes In, from Bob Dylans 30^th anniversary concert

Planxty:
  The Blacksmtih, B/W 1970's“Late Late Show” clip.
  Jolly Beggar, circa (1980)
  Andy Irvine & Leagues O' Toole ”Ireland AM” interview for ‘The Humours Of Planxty ’ book.

November 18, 2006

English Folksinger and Guitarist, Steve Benbow, passes away
According his website, “Steve passed away on Friday 17th November 2006. He died from a heart attack, having suffered for several years with heart problems.” From ‘The Guinness Who's Who of Folk Music’,“…he started accompanying other singers until branching out on his own in 1957. … For a time he worked with the Steve Benbow Folk Four which included Jimmie MacGregor in the line-up. In the early 60s, Steve presented his own show Have Guitar Will Travel, on Radio Luxembourg, the only folk singer to be given a show on the station. ”

Steve recorded more than 25 LPs, as well as collaborating, accompanying and arranging music with and for such artists as The Clancy Brothers, Dominic Behan and Christy Moore.
The Times, The Guardian, The Telegraph

Tuesday, September 5, 2006

From the Independent
Iain Campbell MacKintosh, folk singer: born Glasgow 20 July 1932; married 1956 Sadie Nelson (two daughters); died Glasgow 28 August 2006.
Although he was a late starter, Iain MacKintosh enjoyed a recording career that spanned some 14 albums over three and a half decades. He only occasionally wrote songs, but was known for his considered choice of material by the likes of Eric Bogle, Alex Campbell and in particular Harry Chapin.

read entire article

From the Scotsman

Iain MacKintosh
Folk musician

Born: 20 July, 1932, in Glasgow.
Died: 27 August, 2006, in Glasgow, aged 74.
Click to learn more…

IAIN MacKintosh, known as "the quiet man of Scottish folk", had the love and respect of his peers and of his audiences throughout Europe and America. He was regarded as the ultimate professional, although his stage presence was understated and seemingly without artifice. This professionalism had been honed over his 30 years, or more, of playing folk venues throughout the world and regardless of the country in which he was touring, he could hold an audience enthralled with his remarkable choice of songs and stories. Of the many countries he visited, his favourites were Germany and Denmark. In Germany he toured at least twice a year, sometimes as a solo performer, sometimes with Hamish Imlach and after Hamish died, with Brian McNeill. In Denmark, the Tnder Festival became his main showcase and his yearly appearance at the Visemllen (the Song Mill) became valued as much for his performance as for the musicians and songwriters he introduced.

read entire article

…a Mudcat thread concernig Iain's passing.

Wednesday, April 12, 2006

Its been a while since any updatehere are a few tidbits.

Through the magic of the web I have re-connected with my old friend and (dare I say) mentor, Mick Fitzgerald. Mick is one the best singers, songwriters and guitar players Ive ever met—and I had the good fortune to spend time with him Dublin many years ago. He made me welcome at more sessions than I can remember; and taught me many songs—including—my favorite (still to this day), “Drink”. Mick is still going strong; released a solo CD a few years (available here) and has become a very in demand film actor. Check out his website!

John OBrien, Jr. has written a book called, Festival Legends, Songs and Stories and I highly suggest you check it out!

Also on the just written a book front, Connor Murrays Clancy Brothers Book is hot off the press and available through his siteoddly enough called, ClancyBrothersBook.com

The Beer Mats have revamped their site and I recommend you pay it a visit.

Charlie and the Bhoys also dropped me a line. You can see what the “Bhoys” are up to at their website.

Brian Bonner asked me to link up his site.

Wednesday, March 1, 2006
Derek Warfield's wife passes away.
From www.DerekWarfield.com: With her family gathered by her side, Nuala Warfield passed away in Dublin on March 1st 2006 after a brief illness. She is survived by her husband of 41 years, Derek and their 3 children. The Warfield family would like to thank the many people around the world that have offered their prayers, kindness and support at this time of loss. Remembrance arrangements are being made by the family at this time and will be announced.
My condolences to Derek and his family.

Friday, January 27, 2006

Ronnie Drew and Patsy Watchorn at Submarine Bar, Dublin; Dec. 12, 2005.

As stated on this site and others, Paddy Reilly left the Dubliners in late summer of 2005. Initially it was announced that Patsy Watchorn would tour with the Dubliners, as a guest. WellPatsy is officially in the Dubliners. According to our good friend Peter Schittler, webmaster at www.PatsyWatchorn.com, John Sheahan has been announcing it at their concerts. Formalities have never been a strong point for the Dubliners.

Congratulations Patsy, no one deserves it more than you.

In related Dubliners news, please visit Patsy's site for an interview with Patsy and Eamonn Campbell, concerning the release their Tour Sampleryoull find it here.