Singer Johnny McEvoy, who topped Irish charts in 1966, dies aged 81
Irish folk singer Johnny McEvoy, who had a number-one hit in 1966, died aged 81.
Johnny McEvoy died peacefully at his home in Co Wicklow on Sunday, aged 81. Born in Banagher, Co Offaly, he began singing at age four.
At 18, he turned professional. Johnny McEvoy rose to fame in 1966 when Muirsheen Durkin hit number one in Ireland.
He followed that with hits like The Boston Burglar and Nora. Over six decades, he wrote many songs.
Long Before Your Time and The Planter's Daughter are among them. He wrote The Planter's Daughter for his late wife Odette.
His manager described him as full of knowledge and a private man. He was reluctant to take awards.
Fellow musician Mick Foster paid tribute. Foster noted McEvoy spoke openly about depression in the 1990s.
His honesty helped many others.
- Banagher, Co Offaly
- Birthplace
- six decades
- Career length
- 81
- Age at death
Why it mattersAn influential figure in Irish folk music whose career spanned six decades and whose willingness to discuss mental health helped reduce stigma in the 1990s.
AustraliaNo direct Australian impact, though fans of Irish folk music may have grown up with his songs.
