Music/News: 17 Apr 2018
The Hot Press Newsdesk

Big Tom Has Passed Away

The Irish country music legend, described this morning as "the greatest" by Daniel O'Donnell, has died at the age of 81.

“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our dear father Big Tom McBride (RIP) this morning,” his family announced this morning on his public Facebook page.

“Dad passed away peacefully in the company of his family. He will be sadly missed by all who knew him."

The Monaghan-born singer formed his band Big Tom and the Mainliners back in the 1960s and he was still performing live right up until recently.

Paying tribute this morning, Daniel O'Donnell said: "We all referred to him as the King. He reached out to people in Ireland and those people who had emigrated from Ireland.

He will be missed so, so much. He was the greatest."

Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Arts and TD for Cavan-Monaghan Niamh Smyth says the Irish music industry has lost a legend following the announcement of the death of Big Tom McBride.

“I was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Big Tom this morning. He was an Irish music legend and a true gentleman”, said Deputy Smyth.

“Big Tom is a household name, not only in Ireland, but in many parts of the UK. He was a stalwart of the showband and country music scene with his band The Mainliners, with a career spanning more than 50 years.

“From Four Country Roads to Gentle Mother, his hits have travelled far and wide, earning him the title of the King of Country Music.

"Despite being a living legend, Tom was always an extremely humble and gentle man. Oram, Castleblayney to his core, he always spoke proudly about his Monaghan roots.

“Irish music has truly lost a legend today. I want to extend my sympathies to his family and friends."

Ar Dheis Dé go raibh a anam.

Monaghan GAA would like to offer it's sympathy to the Mc Bride Family and the @Oramgfc on the death of its president and former player Big Tom Mc Bride pic.twitter.com/dS4iNqn4pq

— Monaghan GAA (@monaghangaa) April 17, 2018