Irish singer-songwriter Johnny McEvoy dies aged 81

Irish singer-songwriter Johnny McEvoy has died at the age of 81, his manger has confirmed.

The Co Offaly performer died peacefully at his home in Greystones, Co Wicklow, on Sunday.

Born in Banagher, he was singing from the age of four and turned professional at 18.

In 1966, the folk song Muirsheen Durkin took him to number one and into the heart of the country, and The Boston Burglar and Nora soon followed.

But it was as a songwriter that he found his truest voice, creating tracks such as Long Before Your Time, Michael, Rich Man’s Garden and The Planter’s Daughter, which he wrote for his late wife Odette.

For six decades he performed those songs from Carnegie Hall to parish halls, across Ireland, Britain, Canada and the US. He never lost his love of the road or of the people who came out to hear him.

McEvoy was a father to Jonathan and Alice and a grandfather to Kyle, Isabella and Cinéad.

His family said he will be deeply missed by friends and colleagues across the music world, and by all who loved his music, at home and abroad.

In a statement, Jonathan and Alice said: “Dad’s music meant so much to so many people, but to us he was just Dad. We’re so grateful for all the love shown to him over the years.”

McEvoy’s funeral will be private, attended by family, close friends and some of those he worked alongside over the years, a statement issued on behalf of the family said.

The family thanked people for the messages they have received and asked that their privacy be respected at this time.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin said: “Deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Johnny McEvoy – a true icon of Irish folk music.

“Through his career spanning over six decades, Johnny brought great joy to audiences who had great affection for him. My sympathies to his family, friends and fans at this time.”

Country music singer Nathan Carter said: “One of the finest singer songwriters to have ever graced the stage. I was honoured to have shared the stage with Johnny a few times & his music will live on for many years to come.”

Musician Sharon Shannon said: “His records were played every day in our home when we were growing up, and I’ve always loved his gorgeous voice and the sincerity with which he delivered the lyrics of every song he sang.

“I also loved his passion for Irish history and the wonderful way he introduced and brought those great old songs to life at his shows.

“He was also a gifted songwriter, as well as a brilliant interpreter of both traditional and contemporary songs.

“He was just as lovely to meet in person, with a beautiful kindness in his speaking voice, every bit as evident as it was in his singing.”