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Tributes pour in for Seamus McMahon
The recent passing of Seamus McMahon, legendary guitar player with Big Tom and The Mainliners, caused widespread sadness and regret in country music circles.
Seamus (74) died in Louth County Hospital in Dundalk, following a relatively short illness. Just four months ago, I featured an interview with Seamus which attracted a great response. Seamus pioneered the most distinctive and instantly recognisable guitar style. Hundreds of tributes poured in for Seamus, as many recalled the quiet-mannered gentleman who carved out his own niche in the showband and country music world.
Eddie Fitzgerald from Cork, bass player with Gina and The Champions, reflected: “So sorry to hear the sad news. R.I.P. Seamus. You had a style and sound all of your own and you did it all with a smile on your face.”
The retiring nature of Seamus manifested itself in this quote from our recent feature about him here in Irish Country Living: “I was never one for the limelight and I never pushed myself as such. I was always happy to bring my own style to the band and let Tom and the other lads do the vocals.”
Seamus held a special place in the hearts of all followers of Tom and The Mainliners. The quiet man from Monaghan was a true legend and gentle soul. He was an integral part of one of Ireland’s greatest and most enduring country music stories and will be remembered with the greatest of fondness.
Seamus, who was predeceased by his wife Patricia (neé Clerkin), will be sadly missed by his daughters Fionna and Maressa, sons in-law Roberto and Andrew, grandchildren, sister Mary (McSkeane), brother Henry, the family circle, his Mainliners Family and a wide circle of friends.
Eddie goes to Torremolinos
Kerry singer Eddie Lee went all the way to Torremolinos in Spain to film scenes for his new release, One More Look at Ramona. The country song has a strong Spanish flavour and this is reflected in the production which was recorded in Eddie’s own studios in Ballyheigue. Some scenes for the video, were shot in O’Regan’s Bar and Restaurant in Ballyheigue.
Eddie also performed with The Kingdom Céilí Band at shows up and down the country.
Reina del Cid Irish dates
American country and folk artist, Reina del Cid, along with superb guitarist, Toni Lindgren, take their acclaimed show to Ireland for two dates later this month.
They are playing in the Menagerie Bar in Belfast on 23 August, and in The Workman’s Club, 10 Wellington Quay, Temple Bar, Dublin, on 24 August, with both shows at 8pm. For information in relation to the Dublin gig call 01-670 6692.
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