President leads tributes to showband legend Paddy Cole

President Michael D. Higgins is among those paying tribute to showband legend Paddy Cole. 

The seasoned saxophonist, who was 85, died in St Vincent's Hospital on Wednesday. He was suffering from lung cancer since 2022.

"The music world mourns the loss of the legendary Paddy Cole, a beloved entertainer who brought joy to thousands with his vibrant personality and infectious music," said Cole's brother in a statement.

"From the Capitol Showband to his own Superstars, Paddy Cole's saxophone, clarinet, and vocals filled dance halls and concert stages with his signature blend of jazz, Dixieland, and showband sounds. His music transcended generations, creating memories that will forever be cherished.

"On behalf of his family, we express our deepest gratitude for the outpouring of love and support during this difficult time. Paddy’s legacy will live on through the music he created and the joy he shared with the world."

Having played on stage for the first time at just 12-years-old, the Castleblaney native would go on to play and tour with a slew of bands, including the Capitol showband and the Big Eight showband; who enjoyed a stint in Las Vegas.

"The loss of Paddy Cole is the loss of one of the founding icons of the great period of the Irish showbands," President Higgins said.  "From the Capitol Showband to the great brass sound, what Paddy Cole did for music and for jazz will be remembered across generations.

"The significance of the showband era is perhaps one of the insufficiently recognised aspects of Irish music history. There are places that became famous because of the artists they produced. Castleblayney, always known as 'Blayney', is one such place for producing Paddy.

"Paddy Cole's music was first class, with jazz of international quality, and Sabina and I knew and admired him as a friend."