- Big Tom” McBride (1936 –2018) legendary Irish country singer and showband star, widely known as the “King of Country Music” in Ireland. He was born in the townland of Moy, just outside Castleblayney and was the frontman for the renowned showband Big Tom and The Mainliners, which formed in 1966. Originally a guitarist, he became the lead singer after his 1967 rendition of “Gentle Mother” became a massive hit following an RTE television appearance. Known for hits like “Four Country Roads” and “Old Log Cabin for Sale,” he was inducted into the Irish Country Music Hall of Fame in 2016. He lived in Oram, near Castleblayney, and was celebrated for maintaining strong ties to his rural roots despite his national fame. A statue of Big Tom is located in Castleblayney.
- Ryan Sheridan from Monaghan Town, County Monaghan: Born January 28, 1982. Singer-songwriter and guitarist known for his folk-pop style. His debut album The Day You Live Forever (2011) included hits like “Jigsaw.” Popular in Ireland and Germany, he’s noted for energetic live performances.
- Patrick McGuigan (Pat McGuigan) from Clones, County Monaghan: Born February 10, 1935, died June 27, 1987. Irish country singer, part of the McGuigan family musical dynasty. Known for songs like “The Old Rustic Bridge by the Mill,” he was a prominent figure in Ireland’s country music scene and came fourth in the Eurovision Song Contest for Ireland 968 with the song “Chance of a Lifetime“ His son Barry McGuigan was world featherweight boxing champion 1985-86.
- Eamonn Toal from Castleblayney, County Monaghan: Born circa 1970s. Singer and showman who represented Ireland at Eurovision 2000 with “Millennium of Love,” finishing sixth with 92 points. Known for his theatrical performances in Irish music circles.
- Gráinne Duffy from Castleblayney, County Monaghan: Born circa 1980s. Singer-songwriter blending soul, blues, and rock. Her music, described as a “powerhouse of soul,” includes albums like Where I Belong (2017). She’s gained recognition in Europe and the U.S.
- Brendan McCahey from Carrickmacross, County Monaghan: Born circa 1990s. Singer-songwriter signed with Universal Music. Known for his soulful pop style, he’s an emerging talent in Ireland’s music scene, with local prominence.
- Patrick Byrne (Pádraig Dall Ó Beirn) from Magheracloone, County Monaghan: Born circa 1794, died April 8, 1863. Last noted exponent of the Gaelic harp in Ireland, also a singer of traditional songs. The first Irish traditional musician photographed, he preserved Monaghan’s harp tradition.
- Aed Ó Finn from Monaghan: Died 1269 (birth date unknown). Historical Irish musician, likely a harper or bard, mentioned in medieval records. His inclusion reflects
- The Flaws (band represented by lead singer Paul Finn) from Carrickmacross, County Monaghan: Band formed circa 2004 (members’ individual dates unavailable, active). Indie-rock quartet with albums like Achievements (2010). Known in Ireland’s indie scene, they’ve released three studio albums and gained local fame.
Musicians
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County Monaghan:
Ireland’s county Monaghan offers a serene blend of rolling hills and cultural heritage, with the Monaghan County Museum showcasing local history through artefacts and exhibits. The scenic Rossmore Forest Park provides walking trails amidst lakes and woodlands, while Castle Leslie’s historic estate offers a glimpse into aristocratic life. Other attractions include the county’s traditional lace-making heritage and quiet countryside. Monaghan is Ireland’s sixth smallest county by size (1,291 square km) and fifth smallest by population (65,288). Population peaked at 200,442 in 1841 and reached its lowest point, 45,732 in 1966. In terms of hospitality, Monaghan is Ireland’s 25th most visited tourist county with around 58,000 international visitors per year.
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