Ronnie Drew, founder of The Dubliners and Irish music icon, died Aug. 16 of complications related to throat cancer. Drew originally founded the band as the Ronnie Drew Group in 1962 and began performing in Dublin's O'Donoghues pub. Known for his renditions of raucous bar songs, Drew sang lead on The Dubliners' big hit, Seven Drunken Nights. This year, a group of Irish artists that included U2, Sinead O'Connor and Christy Moore recorded The Ballad of Ronnie Drew to raise money for the Irish Cancer Society. Drew was 73.
Ronnie Drew tribute:
Posted by Ann VerWiebe at August 18, 2008 4:32 PM
Comments
Thank you for posting that. I love the Dubliners. And what I loved about them the most--apart from the great songs-- was that beautiful, rich, whiskey-soaked baritone voice of Ronny Drew. I raise a glass to you, Ronny. I'm sure you're singing those great old drinking songs to the angels now, making them laugh their wings off and drink a couple more pints than they should.
Posted by: Rob Roper at October 6, 2008 11:17 PM
The world will not be the same without Ronnie Drew! unassuming and permanantly surprised to find himself a pop star as well as traditional magician. The "corncrake" renditions of the songs of his Dublin will endure, and pass into legend along with the stirring ballads of Luke Kelly and not forgetting Ciaron Burke "Cieron loved porter" and contributed to the distinctive sound of "The Dubliners" The best lineup ever with John and Barney! They are left to carry the message! Thanks for all the Music Ron. Always remembered.
Posted by: Michael Locke at October 11, 2008 4:15 AM
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Dubliner Ronnie Drew Dies in Ireland
