Music legend Big Tom passes away

 

Irish country music legend Big Tom has passed away aged 81.

The Castleblayney-native's death was confirmed on social media on Tuesday morning last, April 17, by his family who said: “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our dear father Big Tom McBride (RIP) this morning.

“Dad passed away peacefully in the company of his family.

“He will be sadly missed by all who knew him. May he rest in peace.”

Big Tom was known for hits including Four Country Roads, Back To Castleblayney and The Old Rustic Bridge.

In 2016, the Mainliners frontman became the first person to be inducted into Ireland’s Country Music Hall Of Fame.

The news comes only shortly after plans were revealed to erect a statue in honour of Big Tom and his legacy in his Co Monaghan hometown. The statue is expected to be unveiled later this year.
 

Local, tributes were paid by Cavan-Monaghan Fianna Fail TD Niamh Smyth, who described Big Tom as an Irish “music legend and a true gentleman.”

She said: “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.”