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Topic: Tommy Makem RIP |
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Liam Clancy |
Posted: 01-Aug-07 14:06 |
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Good friends - I just got the word from the family that Tommy passed away at about 6.45PM
in Dover NH. As you all probably know he has been ill for quite a while. His suffering at last is over.
He was a friend and partner-in-song for over fifty years. We shared a great hunk of our lives together. We were a hell of a team. Tommy was a man of high integrity, honesty, and, at the end, courage. Our paths diverged at times but our friendship never waned. He was my brother every bit as much as my blood brothers.
His death has left a void that cannot be filled. A great entertainer has left us.
All our thoughts and prayers go out now to his family - Katey, Shane, Conor, Rory, Molly and all those close to him.
Liam
[Edited by Liam Clancy on 01-Aug-07 15:08] |
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youngclancylover |
Posted: 01-Aug-07 14:24 |
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From all around the world people will be praying for him, R.I.P Tommy Makem
Daragh |
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pc |
Posted: 01-Aug-07 14:34 |
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I'll raise a pint in your honour tonight, Tommy. Slan go foill (keep the spirit alive).
Pat Chessell
Vancouver, Canada. |
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lordofthedance |
Posted: 01-Aug-07 14:42 |
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He will be in our hearts forever. He is the father of Irish music, no doubt. He was my hero. That's it. Today is the day I get going on the banjo. He was a very great man. Lets remember him tonight. and always.
-Devon
Take it from a 14 year old. God Bless his soul.
[Edited by lordofthedance on 01-Aug-07 16:08] |
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William Morgan |
Posted: 01-Aug-07 15:31 |
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I'm very sorry to hear that Liam. You and Tommy sounded wonderful together. I express my heart felt condolences to your and Tommy's family. He was a great singer. I never met him but I'm sure he was a great man as well and a very good friend of yours. I'm sorry for you.
May you somehow find peace in this great loss...I hope you're surrounded by family and love ones who will comfort you. |
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William Morgan |
Posted: 01-Aug-07 15:52 |
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I have to share something with all do respect. i shared it partly with Devon and i'll elaboate here....I can't claim to be a religious person in the formal sense. I am spiritual though...and those in my family do experience premonitions....It was about 6 p.m. I played a few tunes learning a new song or 2....my brother put on the radio mostly rock and pop....then he put on the Clancy Brothers's cd to look for a song he liked..the song is not important but the timing may have been...one can call it coincidence...but one time a relation of mine lying on the couch heard a picture fall from the wall only to then hear a phone ring to inform her a loved one had past....this is a reoccuring theme....many again would liken it to coincidence but i only hope to some it brings some comfort in an uncomfortable and intolerable state...I do believe the spirit can be felt.... |
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chicagoirish |
Posted: 01-Aug-07 16:33 |
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I've a fine, felt hat
And a strong pair of brogues
I have rosin in my pocket for my bow
O my fiddle strings are new
And I've leard a tune or two
So I'm well prepared to ramble and must go
God bless the Makem family
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jmehwr07 |
Posted: 01-Aug-07 17:13 |
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Dearest Liam,
Thank you for letting us all know. You sure were a hell of a team! I had the most unbelievable honor to see that firsthand at least once a year for thirteen years. It it is hard for me to put what I'm thinking and feeling into words. I know that it is right for me to hear this from you. Tommy will always be in my heart. My thoughts and prayers are with Katey, Shane, Conor, Rory, Molly and with you and your family. I love you my friend.
God bless, God keep.
Janet |
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Paddy West |
Posted: 01-Aug-07 17:38 |
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Our world has become a smaller place.
Tommy Makem will be sorely missed. |
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Karen |
Posted: 01-Aug-07 19:06 |
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Liam, I'm so very sorry. I can't articulate very well now, still being a bit shocked. I was aware that Tommy had been ill for a long time; but I was hoping I might get to see him again while he was still with us. I last saw Tommy in person in September 1989, when I met him after his performance at the Baltimore (Maryland) Irish Festival, and we had the last of several post-concert discussions on Irish archaeology (I'm a folk musician and busker, and used to work in contract archaeology). I can only imagine what he thought of the current Tara roadbuilding situation.
I'm assuming memorial events will be done in the not-too-distant future, and I'd love to participate in one of them. May we meet again one day, on a higher, more peaceful and musical plane... |
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Martha |
Posted: 01-Aug-07 19:30 |
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Knowing the death is coming soon does not prepare one for the fact. A few hours ago I was at a memorial service for my sister who died last Friday (July 27) after a long illness. Her son prepared a slide show with music and the first song was Liam singing The Parting Glass and he urged everyone to listen to the words.
To hear of Tommy Makem's death on this day is almost unbearable. What a wonderful man, what wonderful music he has left us, and what great songs. As so many have said, we are all richer for his having been on this earth. |
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P J Murphy |
Posted: 01-Aug-07 22:37 |
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Liam,
It was only last night as I travelled home from Waterford and as I passed Ring I mentioned you and Tommy to my Wife and hoped you were well not realising Tommy had passed away.
May I offer my condolences to you on Tommys passing,I have just played Wild Mountain Thyme in his memory,
Ar dheis lamh De go rabh a Anam dilis;
Le gach Dea ghui;
PJ |
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Laura |
Posted: 01-Aug-07 23:26 |
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Liam, thank you for letting us know. My deepest condolences and dearest thoughts are with Tommy's family, and with you and yours.
Laura
[Edited by Laura on 02-Aug-07 00:27] |
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marion |
Posted: 01-Aug-07 23:28 |
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So much sorrow at his passing, but so much happiness that Tommys music gave us.
My heart goes out to his family, to you,Liam & to your family.
The world is a sadder place, but imagine the ceildhs up there!
Lulled to sleep with sweet Erin go Bragh. We have lost 'The Bard of Armagh'. RIP |
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annlizzy |
Posted: 01-Aug-07 23:45 |
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I heard the news on my way to work this morning, and the first thing I thought of was my Mam always going on about how great he was, and manys a great concert we saw with himself and Liam in the Gaiety. A sad day for his family and us,
Ann |
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maximusrotundas |
Posted: 01-Aug-07 23:53 |
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I cried this morning when I heard the news. Tommy and the Clancys were my inspiration. God bless you Tommy. |
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Hughena |
Posted: 02-Aug-07 00:23 |
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My condolences to you and your family Liam, to the Makem Family, and to extended family and friends.
Thanks for the music, thanks for the memories and thanks for just being you. Godspeed Tommy.
Hughena |
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Ryan |
Posted: 02-Aug-07 00:53 |
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I am very sorry to hear this news. I'm not very good with words when it comes to this sort of thing, I just don't know what to say. |
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mairin |
Posted: 02-Aug-07 01:49 |
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My heart is so sad this morning. I cannot even begin to write what thoughts and emotions are going through me at this time. I send my heartfelt thoughts and prayers to his family and friends during this sad time. Maureen Kelly |
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Sharon |
Posted: 02-Aug-07 01:52 |
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Thank you for letting us know. This is a sad day even though we all knew it was coming. A helluva team!.........You bet!. Heaven is a happier place today with Tommy up there with all the rest of those gone before him. Love you Liam. |
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Sarah Jane |
Posted: 02-Aug-07 03:07 |
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Dear Liam,
You know, I went to sleep last night thinking about you and Tommy and all the good times we've shared. I knew something was wrong when Tommy didn't make it last month to Cleveland and the Makem Brotheres weren't there either. We've lost a friend, and the world has lost a legend. There are no words, just memories and an aching heart. My thoughts and prayers go out to you, and to Tommy's family and friends.
With much love and sadness, Sarah Jane
[Edited by Sarah Jane on 02-Aug-07 04:10] |
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Joni |
Posted: 02-Aug-07 03:12 |
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Thoughts and prayers are with the family. Tommy will be greatly missed
Joni |
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John Mc |
Posted: 02-Aug-07 03:20 |
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Liam, very sorry to hear about Tommy's death - by coincidence (or maybe not) I put on your recent "essential" album last night, at around the time of his death - for the first time in about 3 months. May Tommy rest in peace. |
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King Billy |
Posted: 02-Aug-07 04:53 |
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I found the following link in a post over at Makem.com
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-498070708650073731
This was Tommy's last performance of Four Green Fields. |
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nanygina |
Posted: 02-Aug-07 07:02 |
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My heartfelt sympathies to the Makem family. And to you and yours.
I had the privilege of meeting you all years ago in New York and you and the Makem brothers on the Hawaiian cruise this past Jan. All fond memories I will cherish forever.
May he rest in peace. |
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Jim G |
Posted: 02-Aug-07 07:37 |
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Dear Liam
May I offer my sincere condolences to you, the great friend and music partner of this wonderful man Tommy.
The high regard and admiration that you, Paddy and Tom had for Tommy was always evident.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and all the Makem family. We offer our thoughts as well to people like Brian Doherty and Kevin Evans, who knew Tommy so well and performed with him so often.
Jim Gallagher
Ottawa |
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jsokolow |
Posted: 02-Aug-07 07:54 |
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What a sad day. Growing up in New York City, I had the privilege of hearing the Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem perform often when I was a teenager. What a musical world they opened up! I've been singing their songs to myself all my life and now to my kids.
Somewhere Tommy is singing The Parting Glass:
And since it falls
Unto my lot
That I should rise
And you should not
I'll gently rise
And softly call
Good night, and joy be with you all.
Good night and God bless! |
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Christie |
Posted: 02-Aug-07 07:58 |
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Oh, what terrible news! I'm so sorry to hear that. I was never fortunate enough to meet Tommy Makem or even see him in concert, but I always love to listen to the live recordings where he never fails to make me laugh or marvel as his great talent. Tommy lived a great life, spreading songs, jokes, and happiness all over the world.I only wish I could be that blessed.
I'm still kind of in shock. Just yesterday at 6:45, I was at a memorial service for my five class mates that died earlier this summer. And now this.
Liam, I'm truly sorry and offer my deepest condolences, as well as to the Makem family and friends.
Rest in peace, Tommy. You shall never be forgotten. |
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Brooksroberts |
Posted: 02-Aug-07 09:26 |
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Please accept my condolences on the loss of your friend. None of us will ever forget Tommy Makem. |
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56belair |
Posted: 02-Aug-07 11:03 |
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Liam,
A sad day for the world! I have enjoyed the music of you fine singers since I was a a child!! My Irish Auntie would blush when she heard the lyrics 'to Hell with King Billy and God bless The Pope'! I was hooked!!
RIP Tommy!
Jerry Clancy |
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mike welch |
Posted: 02-Aug-07 11:36 |
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Liam; My sympathy to you & the Makem family. It doesn't seem like that long ago that I sat with you, Tommy, Paddy & Tom at an after concert party in Omaha NE at the home of Mike McCarthy, another folk singer friend. I remember talking with Tommy about growing up as a Catholic in Ulster. We spent most of the night singing & laughing with friends & fans. Tommy was so willing to talk & sing & share his knowledge of Irish history & music with all of us. He was really special, funny & profane & spiritual & human all at once. May he rest in peace. |
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Fergie |
Posted: 02-Aug-07 11:47 |
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Tonight my mind goes back to Dunloy, Co Antrim, The Grand Opera House in Belfast and to "County Hall" in Ballymena where on my 18th birthday I met Tommy after another memorable evening together with Liam. I recall the humour of Tommy mimicing the wee wooden puppet flinging its arms around as Liam made it dance, I recall the laughter in Dunloy as Tommy prayed some of The Rosary through the whistling false teeth of an elderly lady and I recall going to Tommy Makems Irish Pavilion in NYC in July 1986 - the nights that I came home with my mother in our wee Morris Minor reliving the laughter of a night in your company.."where you go the sunshine follows"
Peace.
Feargal. |
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Armagh Brendan |
Posted: 02-Aug-07 11:56 |
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I last saw Tommy a few years back when he was performing in McSorley's Old Ale House in New York City during their annual birthday celebration there. It is the only day of the year that the historic pub has live music and Tommy didn't let us down. I was happy to see that Tommy was able to visit his home county of Armagh one last time. Up Armagh, RIP Tommy and condolences to you Liam. |
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Steve |
Posted: 02-Aug-07 11:58 |
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Just got back from holiday in Germany, I come to the board and I find this news. Terrible. Really upsetting. I am utterly devastated. |
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Paul Donly |
Posted: 02-Aug-07 12:27 |
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I raise my glass to a great maun. |
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armand |
Posted: 02-Aug-07 12:45 |
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Tommy will be missed, but he will live on in all of us. I've had the pleasure of seeing him and Liam and all the brothers and I will never foget those times. Thier music still stirs me. my condolences Liam. |
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irishwannabe |
Posted: 02-Aug-07 13:31 |
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May you rest in peace Tommy and thank you for all you have meant to all of us fo a long time. |
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alicesboy |
Posted: 02-Aug-07 14:39 |
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Liam,
You are square right that you were one hell of a team. Thanks be to God for giving us Tommy as long as we had him. The angels' choir gains a formidable talent. My Mom so dearly loved Tommy and you and your brothers. She's on to heaven herself already. When someone would mention the Chieftans or some other Irish group, she'd say, "They're okay, but give me Tommy Makem and the Clancy boys any day". I'll raise a pint to her, Tommy and to your good health and happiness, Liam. Bless you.
Charlie |
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squire1798 |
Posted: 02-Aug-07 15:38 |
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Liam,
Thank you so much for letting us all know that Tommy had passed. I myself found out about it just minutes ago. After reading through all the posts here, it's clearly evident that Tommy was a wonderful man and a fantastic singer - and to many of us the world over that will never change.
And on that, Liam, I don't know if it will fall to you, Robbie, Mary, or Conor but please extend my and my family's deepest condolences to Tommy's family. It may be 12 years now since we met everyone over in Irelend while on a once-in-a-lifetime tour, but it seems it was just the other day. My family and I were fortunate enough to meet up with Tommy and Conor again a few years ago (2002) while he was in Iowa playing a concert at one of the festivals there.
I was first introduced to Tommy, through his music, 37 years ago and through the grace of God was fortunate enough to meet him in person and will carry the thought and memory of him forward to the end of my days.
Again, Liam, our deepest and most heartfelt condolences to Tommy's family.
John Lawrence
Penny Lawrence
Jeff Lawrence |
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rjb4standards |
Posted: 02-Aug-07 15:48 |
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It is truly a sad day. We were blessed with Tommy's good humor, enlightened and uplifting music, and caring soul for many good years.
Thank you, Liam, for the fine tribute and comforting words.
Tommy Makem and Liam Clancy set the "gold standard" for Irish folk music that others will always be measured by. It is a very high bar!
Tommy, you will be deeply missed!
Thanks for singing The Mermaid at our last meeting. Nobody could do it like you, Tommy!
Richard Brooks
Hadley, Massachusetts
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Gene Mynahan |
Posted: 02-Aug-07 18:10 |
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Liam,
It's all been said. So I'll just add that I cherish my memories of both
the singer-song writer and, more importantly, the man. I carry his voice
& visage in both head and heart and always will. "My fourth green field
will bloom, once again, said she!" sends shivers of almost familial
pride up the back-hairs on the neck every time,.....every time! Sarah &
Tommy are singing together, right now, for sure.
I'm sorry for all our loss,
Gene Mynahan
[Edited by Gene Mynahan on 02-Aug-07 19:15] |
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Chuck |
Posted: 02-Aug-07 18:16 |
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Dear Liam, You and Tommy were truly a match made in heaven for us. So much comfort and joy your blended talents did and continue to improve the
the quality of life for all of us lucky enough to have found you. He seems as much a brother to you as anyone. I can only imagine your memories and how deep this news cuts you. Keep the faith and carry on for his and your dear brothers' namesake. We're all clinging to and counting on our fourth and final Green Field. All my love, Chuck. |
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Muddy Folker |
Posted: 02-Aug-07 19:59 |
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The angels truly are singing now. R.I.P. Tommy. Thanks for the tunes. |
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cassielee |
Posted: 02-Aug-07 21:31 |
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Liam,
The news of Tommy's passing drew me to your messageboard for the first time, and this is my first message... it was Tommy and the Clancys who first drew me to Ireland and all things Irish, something I still cherish. My heartfelt prayers go to you and the Makem family. I never met Tommy but somehow he always seemed like a friend, and he will be sorely missed.
Mary Andrist Leech
Harwichport, Massachusetts |
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Bob Brown |
Posted: 02-Aug-07 22:38 |
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As has already been said, it was the music that swung my interests to things Irish as well and, in time and after a couple of visits, I realized how much more there was to Ireland but the music remained like icing on the cake and I collected everything I could find by The Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem - together, individually, it was all great and some of it outstanding. We can be thankful for the recordings, for the times we shared the music in concert and for the happiness it all brought. How fortunate we were to have such a talent in our midst for so long and how empty it feels knowing he's gone, like losing a family member you didn't see often but loved just as much. My condolences to you and Tommy's family...thank you for the music and may God bless you and keep you safe.
Bob Brown
British Columbia, Canada |
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Nuala |
Posted: 03-Aug-07 00:22 |
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Dear Liam,
I wish to express my sorrow on the death of your good friend Tommy. I'm only 24, but have loved listening to your music since I was very young as my Dad would always play your tapes on long car journeys or at home.
Tommy had the most lovely voice, I could listen to you both all day and not tire of it! I recently met you after a gig in the Civic Theatre just before Christmas, but unfortunately I never met Tommy Makem. Even so, I could see he was a very warm, likeable and funny man, and I'm sad that he's gone. May he Rest In Peace. |
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Moonshiner |
Posted: 03-Aug-07 01:23 |
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Liam, thanks for posting your personal message.
Tommy will be sadly missed, but fondly remembered.
May his spirit rest peacefully.
tribute on Irish TV News: http://dynamic.rte.ie/av/230-2275780.smil
(opens with RealPlayer)
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Paddy West |
Posted: 03-Aug-07 04:03 |
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New York Times, August 3, 2007
Douglas Martin writes ...
Thomas Makem (who made a point of not revealing his middle name) was born on Nov. 4, 1932, in Keady, County Armagh, Northern Ireland.
Mr. Makem made his stage debut in his hometown at the age of 5, singing “The Little Beggarman.”
Like many in his family, he emigrated to New Hampshire to apply skills learned in Irish linen mills to that state’s cotton mills. His factory career ended when a broken piece of machinery landed on his hand, requiring several operations.
His uncle took him to New York in 1956 for the St. Patrick’s Day parade, at which he met two of the Clancy brothers, Paddy and Tom. He already knew Liam Clancy....
They recorded their first album [in 1956] in the Bronx in the kitchen of Kenny Goldstein, a prominent folklorist. After two more albums for Tradition Records, including one of drinking songs that became a cult favorite, they signed the $100,000 deal with Columbia Records....
Mr. Makem left the Clancy Brothers on amicable terms in 1969 to have a solo act. In 1975 he joined with Liam Clancy to form a duo that lasted until 1988. Mr. Makem then resumed work as a solo act.
For many years he owned Tommy Makem’s Irish Pavilion, a restaurant and bar in Manhattan. Despite this and the many drinking songs he lustily performed, he did not drink alcohol.
Mr. Makem’s wife, the former Mary Shanahan, died in 2001. He is survived by his daughter, Catherine Makem-Boucher; his sons, Shane and Conor of Dover, and Rory of Amesbury, Mass., who are all three performers; and a granddaughter.
When Mr. Makem arrived at Logan International Airport in Boston in 1955 ... the customs agent told him, “Have a great life.” More than a half-century later, Mr. Makem declared, “I took him at his word.”
[Edited by Paddy West on 03-Aug-07 05:04] |
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Johnnyboy |
Posted: 03-Aug-07 04:47 |
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Oh, I can't think of anything beyond what has already been said, except to add Tommy's own words:
"Softly blow ye winds of morning,
Sing ye winds your mournful sound;
Blow ye from the earth's four corners,
Guide this traveller where he's bound."
Sincerest sympathy to his family, Liam and friends,
Johnnyboy
[Edited by Johnnyboy on 03-Aug-07 05:49] |
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David McD |
Posted: 03-Aug-07 04:53 |
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I have lots of memories. I remember when I was 11 I saw Tommy in Apple Farms. He performed The Rambles of Spring, The Black Velvet Band, Connemara Cradle Song, Mr. Moses, Darkley Weaver, The Wild Colonial Boy, Johnny McEldoo, The Maid of Fivey, My Rainbow Race, Peace and Justice, Waltzing with Bears, The Garden Song, A Place in the Choir, The Wild Rover, and, of course, Four Green Fields. I got him to sign a picture afterwards. I also met him at a hotel in Albany. I'm very sorry for his family and for you Liam. Here's a song in tribute:
There'll be no more good times, now that you're leaving
nothing but sorrow at my door.
All I see is rain through my dusty window pane
I'll never find the good times anymore, anymore.
No I'll never find the good times anymore.
James McDonough,
age 15 |
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WilliamW |
Posted: 03-Aug-07 07:21 |
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I been gone for a couple of days. It's a sad day, indeed.
A great bard is lost to the world.
Thank you, Liam, for letting us know. |
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bob turino |
Posted: 03-Aug-07 09:15 |
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What can I say that has not been said.Tommy & Liam made an ordinary life brighter by knowing both of them for many years.The high holy days of March will never be the same in Philly or at Brittingham's Pub.Tommy was larger than life so it's difficult to believe he is gone.
Condolences to the Makem family & Liam & family,
bob turino,philadelphia |
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Paddy West |
Posted: 03-Aug-07 10:34 |
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The Telegraph Co. UK:
Thomas James Makem was born at Keady, Co Armagh, on November 4 1932, the youngest of five children. His father Peter was a mill worker, his mother Sarah a revered traditional singer. Tommy left school at 14 for a job in a garage before observing a strong local custom, crossing the Atlantic to Dover, a town in New Hampshire with its own textile tradition.
After seriously injuring his left hand in an accident at work he moved to New York...
Folk music was enjoying a spell of popularity in America, and at the 1961 Newport Folk Festival Makem and Joan Baez were chosen as the most promising newcomers....
The success of the Clancys, and Makem's driving role, instilled great pride at home. A mantra in Irish school playgrounds ran: "Why do the Clancy Brothers Sing? Because Tommy Makem."
With his strong baritone and engaging stage presence, Makem had rare star quality, and he launched a solo career in 1969, though he also reunited with Liam Clancy to perform as a successful duo for 13 years from 1975. He considered himself professionally active until the last weeks of his life, assuring friends of his determination to honour bookings stretching months ahead....
He lived most of his adult life at Dover, where he died on Wednesday.
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crabby |
Posted: 03-Aug-07 12:37 |
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I LOVED TOMMY& "THE BOYS",THEIR MUSIC MADE MY LIFE "WONDEROUS" GROWING UP IN MASSACHUSETTS IN THE 60'S. I FIRST SAW THEM ON " MIKE WALLACE'S PM EAST & WEST",FROM THEN ON I WAS HOOKED! WENT TO THEIR CONCERTS TWICE A YEAR IN BOSTON.TOMMY HAD THE BEST VOICE OF THEM ALL!!!HE WILL BE SORELY MISSED.HEAVEN HAS A NEW MEMBER IN THE ANGEL'S CHOIR & I AM SURE HE WILL BE IN THE FRONT ROW!!!GOD SPEED,TOMMY.YOU TOUCHED SO MANY LIVES.PRAYERS & CONDOLENCES TO HIS FINE FAMILY.BUT, REMEMBER LOVE NEVER DIES,HE WILL BE WITH YOU ALWAYS!!!! I HAVE'NT BEEN ABLE TO STOP CRYING,BUT I KNOW THAT HIS SUFFERING IS OVER & HE IS WITH GOD.SUCH A SWEET KIND MAN.GOD BLESS!!! |
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deirdre61 |
Posted: 03-Aug-07 12:53 |
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My heart goes out to you Liam and to your family. It's a sad sad time for you and for all his family and friends. I hope he didn't suffer. He will be missed terribly. You take care of yourself and stay healthy.
You don't know me from Adam but you and Tommy filmed a programme at Bunratty Castle back in the 80's and I was there. I will never forget it. The condensation was so bad it was dripping like rain. The music was outstanding of course. I've never been able to find a copy of it anywhere.
Tommy Lord rest him, was a true gentleman. I am having a parting glass to him right now so Slainte dear Tommy may you rest in peace.
I feel so priviliged to have been an MC for an evening concert in Syracuse some years ago where I made him a pot of tea and we sat and chatted in between sets. He even sang a song to me in his changing room. God I was spoiled!!!
I can only imagine what his family feels right now. My mother passed away in Limerick last Sept. of lung cancer. It's a nasty thing that blasted caner.
Slan,
Deirdre McCarthy
Storyteller and presenter of Irish culture
Central Square, NY |
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Vivienne |
Posted: 03-Aug-07 14:02 |
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Can still see very vividly Tommy centre stage at the Royal Albert Hall, with the lights dimmed and the spotlight on Tommy sitting where he performed the actions of "The Cobbler" before beginning to sing the song. This memory has always been with me of that night when I managed to see The Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem in concert and a memory I have always treasured.
Thanks for the wonderful music, the memories and the magic that is the Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem.
"He whistled and sang 'til the green woods rang"
Vivienne |
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moople72 |
Posted: 03-Aug-07 14:37 |
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In honor of Tommy last night I listened to “The Makem & Clancy Concert” from 1977 (among the finest live discs I’ve ever heard). We lost a great one. Words cannot convey his great talent & influence. The countless numbers of souls enriched by his music cannot be measured.
Here’s hoping for many more years of music from his equally talented friend, Liam.
Thanks for the music!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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Eibhlin |
Posted: 03-Aug-07 15:28 |
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Like so many others here, I've been a fan of the Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem since I was a child. I remember one Christmas when I was a child Santa bought my sister a Beatles album and I got "The Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem Live at Carnegie Hall". I was thrilled! I've collected many more of their albums and CDs since that long ago Christmas, and went to many of their concerts.
My condolences to the Makem and Clancy families.
Thank you, Tommy, for the music and the memories.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam
E |
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dgnorwich |
Posted: 03-Aug-07 17:31 |
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Liam,
I don’t know if I can articulate how deeply I feel the loss of Tommy Makem. Two very short years ago, I did not know his name, and today I feel a loss in my heart nearly as deep and sorrowful as with the passing of my own father. My dear, playful friends of Irish origin, having recently introduced to me the joy, the melancholy, and the feisty independent rebelliousness that pulses through and pervades the music you and Tommy so graciously gave to us over the past five decades, have awakened within me a latent Irish spirit that I can only attribute to some generations-old and long ago forgotten heritage. Tommy was my touchstone in this passage.
I’ll hear Tommy’s song every time I see the grey October clouds go drifting by. I’ll think of Tommy whenever I see a painting of a clipper ship, or see a rambler wearing a fine felt hat, or hear the passionate, angry words of some old agitator, or gaze upon some piece of rock where the bays come together resembling the hills of Isle au Haut, and I shall proudly fly my four-province flag from my sailboat, and I shall tell all who ask me, that I fly the four green fields aloft, and that my flag shall continue to fly until the fourth green field is once again part of the whole.
God bless ye, Tommy, and God bless all who raise their glass with me.
Away unto the westward,
There’s a place a man should go
Where the fishin’s always easy,
And they’ve got no ice or snow.
“In folk song, the truth will out.”
T. Makem
Then fill your glasses high, let them part with lips not dry
For the lark now proclaims it is dawn
And since we can't remain, may we shortly meet again.
Dave |
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Jim G |
Posted: 04-Aug-07 14:45 |
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Eibhlin
Regarding your Christmas gift of the CBTM Carnegie Hall album, I'm guessing that might have been Christmas 1963 or 1964. I'm guessing further that the Beatles album your sister got was either Twist and Shout, or Beatlemania. Where I live, in Ottawa, Canada, in March 1964 the top ten hit parade had those two Beatles albums leading at 1 and 2, while in third place was, you guess it, In Person at Carnegie Hall. And sitting comfortably in the fifth spot was another CBTM album, The First Hurrah. Albums at that time were selling for $4.20 for mono and $5.20 for stereo, with occasional specials at $2.99 and $3.29.
So, you and your sister both got good gifts. The Beatles, who started the British invasion, were competing hotly with those fellows who started the Irish invasion.
Jim |
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William Morgan |
Posted: 04-Aug-07 16:16 |
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I really must say I am envious of many of you either met Tommy or knew him in such an intimate(meaning friendship) way. I can only guage his voice and personality on screen as in a doc. His voice ws strong and passionate and his demeanor...not quite sure they have a word for it. Help me out. There was an Irish Doc. on PBS where Tommy spoke at length....I enjoed it very much. I remember inconclusing he said he was going to sing that night. I could scarcley fathom a day where he didn't sing amongst adoring fans looking to escape the world for a spell. I suppose baritones have fallen out of style a bit(not that I entirely know a baritone from a trombone!) But Tommy will always be contemporaryly accessible as he is nostalgically pure....At this point I say The Wind That Shakes My Valley.....He was in many ways a throw back....his voice rang strong and true though...I also enjoy singing his songs about Windmills and Carlingford.....They sound like songs of yore yet they're relatively now.....
I think back to the time befoe his passing. I don't normally force myself upon others. I'm not quite sure if it was the day of his passing or the day before but i tried to add tommy's myspace page(even if it was probably a fan) along with his son(s) page again even if it were a fan....only to find him dead the day after. Not that myspace is signifigant but it's a shame I couldn't see Tommy like so many others. I envy you. |
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Sean Walsh |
Posted: 04-Aug-07 17:24 |
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Amazing how someone that you've never met can be so damn important to you and can leave a such a significant impression on your life. I am so greatful that I was able to know his music and spirit. |
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Herself |
Posted: 04-Aug-07 20:01 |
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I grew up listening to his music he was like part of our family sad news indeed .... |
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ArdilaneStrand |
Posted: 05-Aug-07 07:58 |
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I saw Tommy and Liam - I've been on a first name bas for years, don't you know :/) - at "the Egg" in Albany, NY. In mock outrage, he cajoled
the unresposive audience to sing along: "Pour it out of you like you've been pouring it into you all night!" Almost a twenty year old memory,
but I've been living with the Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem's music all my life and so much of my memory is tied up with it that it will live with me the rest of my life. It's no small thing to have given the pleasure that Tommy Makem has. Condolences to all, especially his family and Liam whose loss is so much greater than mine.
Mike |
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Corcaigh |
Posted: 05-Aug-07 10:13 |
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my little 7 year old came home on, Friday down in the mouth.... Tommy Makem died he says. I know I said sadly, How did you know (Living in London?)I heard it in Mummys car on BBC radio 2.
Come here and sit down I said comforting him. After about 1 minute he sits up sternly and says, "Where are me drum sticks Dad?"
What do ya read into that?
Thanks Tommy. You are immortal.
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MayWoodFarm |
Posted: 05-Aug-07 18:27 |
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What a kind soul he was. And a true friend of the earth. |
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Sean |
Posted: 05-Aug-07 18:30 |
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He was a great man and will be missed. |
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jimrox |
Posted: 06-Aug-07 13:13 |
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Dear Liam ,
My condolences on the passing of your great friend and musical partner The GREAT Tommy Makem . I grew up listening to you ,your brothers and TOMMY . You are all in my heart,in my songs and in my mind .Thank you all for the fantastic memories and music . My deepest sympathies also to the Makem family . Carry his memory proudly as those who remember Tommy do . As long as we can sing Tommy's songs and recall his wit he will never be truly gone .
Regards and immense respect,
Jimmy Dowd . |
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Brian_McC |
Posted: 06-Aug-07 14:34 |
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I have been a fan of The Clancys and Tommy Makem for over forty years. After hearing my first CBTM album I sought them out every month until I had all. Their music made me aware of my Irish heritage and so invited me to learn so much of its richness.
After reading the news of Tommy's passing as posted by Liam here, I was oddly struck with a non-Irish tune that goes through my head whenever I think of Tommy's death. It is an Eagles Tune that was inspired by 9/11...
As with Tom,Paddy, and Bobby's passing......"There's a Hole in the World Tonight"
My condolences to all the Makem family and Liam and his family and all the fans throughout the world.
Brian |
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Darrell Keigan |
Posted: 06-Aug-07 17:16 |
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I was on stage tonight in Baddeck, Cape Breton, singing songs, and telling stories. As usual, I sang a Tommy Makem song, nothing unusual about that, then I found myself singing another, and another, then, another... it's hard to believe the " Songman " is gone. Many times over the years, I sat at the beautiful Savoy Theater in Glace Bay, and listened to Tommy and Liam weave their magic, It leaves an empty feeling, knowing Tommy won't be back there again. I grew up listening to the your music, the same music that I now play.
I want to say, " Thank you " for all the stories, all the songs, and all the memories... my 8 yr. old son listens to the stash as well.... when I told him the news, he was just kinda quiet, never really said to much right away, but later, he came over to me and said, Tommy Makem's songs were the best!! I agree!!!!!
" Deepest Sympathy "
Darrell Keigan |
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Christeph |
Posted: 06-Aug-07 21:22 |
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Come, raise your glass and raise your voice,
And raise the rafters high,
Our bard is not yet gone from us
He’s lingering nearby
In every heart, in every song,
In every tale that’s told
He’s born afresh, immortalised
His memory etched in gold
Not hush nor sigh nor quiet grief
Can honour such a man
Not half so much as passioned song
And honest laughter can
If he were here, he’d tap his foot
And bid the piper play
And pound a rousing verse or three
Before he must away
So must we as loving friends
A merry tribute make
So come one, come all and heed the call
To Tommy Makem’s wake
Sing up a storm like ne’er before
And when the singing’s done
We’ll raise a glass, and let him pass
Old Eireann’s favourite son
Slan abhaile, Tommy. |
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Imelda |
Posted: 07-Aug-07 09:46 |
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I'm really sorry to hear about Tommy. I'm an hours drive from his house so will be there on Thursday, representing all the people who can't make it.
Goodnight Tommy
Imelda |
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glasgowgirl |
Posted: 07-Aug-07 10:25 |
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Christeph, what a beautiful message - thank you.
glwgirl |
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colinimc |
Posted: 07-Aug-07 14:04 |
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It is indeed hard to describe how I felt when I read this sad news on the BBC Northern Ireland website. I was born a 1st generation Canadian in Montreal in 1958 and grew up listening to The Clancy's&Tommy Makem; indeed I still have the records. I never knew the man, but yet, through his voice and music I feel that I somehow did. To this day whenever I hear him sing "Will ye go lassie", I am reduced to mush. What more need be said of anyone, but that they will never be forgotten? R.I.P., Tommy Makem; and my condolences to all your family and friends. Slan. |
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bill smith |
Posted: 07-Aug-07 23:40 |
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Sad, sad news. He contributed so much. He will be sadly missed but fondly remembered. |
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lmac9971 |
Posted: 08-Aug-07 12:05 |
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I am not much of a poster here at the board.
I thought this was sad news when I heard Tommy Makem had passed away.
I remember one winter evening my father was excited to be taking me and my brother to Bridgewater state college to a concert that evening. Tommy Makem was singing and he sang my father's favorite song Waltzing with Bears
I also like Red Is The Rose and Four Green Fields
Laura C. |
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Gareth |
Posted: 09-Aug-07 10:49 |
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Dear Liam and Fellow Fans
I've read this messageboard for many a silent and respectful year, without registering until today. As a 38 year old Welshman I state that Tommy and the boys have been a part of my life for so many years. Through song, we have travelled many a road together, made many friends, shared tears and laughter and above all else, always been there. Alas, that it is no longer so and the summer road I travel today, although bathed in sunshine, is tinged by the shadows of sadness.
Kind Regards
Gareth |
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Charlotte D |
Posted: 09-Aug-07 15:06 |
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All the messages of condolence and the stories are wonderful to read. What a great talent he was. The first I ever heard of him/Clancys was in 1966 when a friend asked me to listen to a record her family had just bought. First song I heard was "Patriot Game"; I will never forget that night. Over these many years, I have been fortunate to see any and all of that group in many different places.
Tommy certainly was a unique entertainer; a real bard. "Bard of Armagh" was one of the favorites. I would love to visit Keady someday. I have been to Ireland many times, but not to that town yet!
We are all the poorer for Tommy's passing, but blessed with a wealth of songs, stories, videos, etc. to keep his spirit alive, and our spirits lifted. |
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SeanOg |
Posted: 09-Aug-07 15:19 |
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Liam,
Sean hennessey here from Watertown NY. I wanted to send my condolences for Tommy's Passing. He is a man that will always be rembered for his love for our culture. You and he were such a great pair and my heart goes out to you and your family as well. All our best and stay well!
Sean M Hennessey
Echoes of ireland
Radio Show
Watertown NY |
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CaptainJorge |
Posted: 09-Aug-07 18:00 |
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Liam,
My sincere condolences to you and to the Makem family. I'm a 24 year old college student in Miami, FL, U.S. and I discovered your music less than 6 months ago. You all were amazing together. Your music has brought such indescribable joy to the world, and to myself and my family. Tommy will be missed. May God rest his soul.
Jorge Rodriguez |
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dongael |
Posted: 10-Aug-07 06:09 |
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In 1976 I was walking down Spring Garden Road in Halifax, Nova Scotia and I ran headlong into Tommy Makem and Liam Clancy.
What a thrill to meet these two legends!
After introducing myself Tommy replied, "I was at a party two nights ago with your father in Cape Breton!"
Tommy and the Clancy's will always be treasured by me, what great music, great times and great memories.
My all time favorite Tommy Makem song is "In The Dark Green Wood."
A master storyteller, singer and entertainer will be missed dearly.
Francis A Mac Donald
Inverness, NS, Canada |
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Siobhan B |
Posted: 21-Aug-07 06:36 |
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I was deeply saddened to hear of Tommy's passing. My condolences to all family and friends of his. Rest in peace Tommy. |
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logboom |
Posted: 22-Aug-07 19:44 |
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Now, in the name of God go ye Tommy. You are with the Angels and we are all left to miss you. |
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macdylan |
Posted: 23-Aug-07 01:07 |
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I remember as a youngster way back in the days of black and white TV, whilst engaged in my home schoolwork one particular night, my attention being suddenly drawn to the TV.
On it was Tommy performing ‘The Cobbler’.
I was mesmerised as indeed were the whole family. We had never seen nor heard anything like this before. It was totally breathtaking and so unique, an effect so similar to the first time I heard the sweet tones of Liam Clancy and the raw voice of Bob Dylan dramatically declaring that ‘The Times They Are a-Changing”. They certainly were.
That’s the thing about genius. It makes its presence felt. BIG TIME!.
Quote from another one
“In my stars I am above thee; but be not afraid of greatness: some are BORN GREAT, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon 'em”.-Twelfth Night
MacD |
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Eddystone Jack |
Posted: 28-Aug-07 07:09 |
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Tommy Makem was very kind to our town, Dover NH. This tower of a man made us all feel like we were his brother. His sons continue to grace our town, and his songs fill our pubs.
God's kind blessings on all who morn his loss, be comforted in his warm reception up there.
Liam, your tribute and song at the end of the service is the talk of the town. Blessings on you. |
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