Johnny McEvoy Dies at 81
Irish singer-songwriter Johnny McEvoy has died at the age of 81, rte.ie reported. His manager, Darren Farrell, confirmed that the musician passed away peacefully at his home in Greystones, County Wicklow, on Sunday.
Born in Banagher, County Offaly, McEvoy began singing at the age of four and turned professional at 18. He rose to prominence in 1966 when his recording of “Muirsheen Durkin” reached number one in the Irish charts, according to Midlands 103. Hit songs including “The Boston Burglar” and “Nora” followed.
McEvoy Wrote Famous Tracks over a Six-Decade Career
Over a career spanning six decades, McEvoy became known for writing tracks such as “Long Before Your Time,” “Michael,” and “The Planter’s Daughter,” a song he penned for his late wife, Odette. In 1968, he performed at New York’s Carnegie Hall, The Irish Sun reported.
In a statement, McEvoy’s children, Jonathan and Alice, paid tribute to their father. Dad’s music meant so much to so many people, but to us, he was just Dad,
they said, expressing gratitude for the love shown to him over the years.
Family Requests Privacy for Private Funeral Arrangements
McEvoy’s funeral will be private, attended by family, close friends, and former colleagues. The family thanked the public for their messages and requested privacy.
Manager Darren Farrell recalled beginning his professional relationship with McEvoy in 2005 before taking over management in 2007. Every date that he ever done, whether it be an interview or a concert or travelling abroad, I travelled with him on every one of those,
Farrell told RTÉ Radio 1’s The News at One. He noted that McEvoy’s legacy included top 10 hits in the UK and a loyal international following.
Mick Foster of the music duo Foster and Allen paid tribute on RTÉ Radio 1’s The Oliver Callan Show, describing McEvoy as a legend. Foster praised McEvoy for being one of the first Irish entertainers to speak openly about depression and mental health during the 1990s, noting that his openness provided significant support to others facing similar struggles.