Irish Showbands In Ireland
The Irish Showbands were a popular music phenomenon that emerged in Ireland during the 1950s and continued to dominate the music scene until the late 1970s. These bands were a defining feature of Irish culture during this period, capturing the hearts and minds of the Irish people with their energetic performances and unique blend of traditional Irish music and popular genres such as rock, pop, and country. This thesis will explore the history and impact of the Irish Showbands, examining their rise to fame, their music and style, and their lasting legacy on Irish music and culture.
The origins of the Irish Showbands can be traced back to the 1950s, a time when Ireland was still recovering from the economic and social effects of the Second World War. The country was in a state of cultural stagnation, and there was a growing desire for entertainment and escapism among the Irish people. It was during this time that a new type of musical group emerged, one that would fill the void and become an integral part of Irish society – the Showband.
The first Irish Showbands were formed by musicians who had been playing traditional Irish music in local dance halls and pubs. These musicians saw an opportunity to cater to the growing demand for entertainment and began incorporating popular music into their repertoire. This fusion of traditional Irish music with popular genres proved to be a winning formula, and the Showbands quickly gained popularity across the country.
One of the key factors that contributed to the success of the Irish Showbands was their ability to cater to a wide audience. They played a diverse range of music, from traditional Irish jigs and reels to American rock and roll, appealing to both young and old. The Showbands also had a unique style of performance, with their energetic stage presence and colorful costumes, which added to their appeal. They became known for their ability to entertain and engage with their audiences, creating a lively and fun atmosphere at their shows.
One of the most iconic figures associated with the Irish Showbands was the legendary showman, Brendan Bowyer. Bowyer was the lead singer of the Royal Showband, one of the most successful Showbands of the time. He was known for his charismatic stage presence, and his ability to connect with the audience through his music. Bowyer and his band achieved international success, touring extensively in the United Kingdom and the United States, and even appearing on The Ed Sullivan Show in 1965.
The success of the Irish Showbands was not limited to Ireland. They also had a significant impact on the Irish diaspora, particularly in the United States, where Irish immigrants welcomed the familiar sound of the Showbands. They became a symbol of Irish identity and pride, bringing a taste of home to the Irish communities abroad.
The Irish Showbands also played a crucial role in the development of the Irish music industry. Their popularity created a demand for Irish music, leading to the emergence of record labels and recording studios in Ireland. This gave Irish musicians the opportunity to record and release their music, leading to a growth in the Irish music industry.
Despite their immense success and lasting impact, the Irish Showbands began to decline in the late 1970s, with the rise of disco and punk music. The changing musical landscape and the popularity of new genres led to the decline of the Showbands, and many bands disbanded or changed their style to stay relevant. However, the legacy of the Irish Showbands lives on, with many of their songs still popular today and their influence evident in the styles of contemporary Irish musicians.
In conclusion, the Irish Showbands were a defining feature of Irish culture during the 1950s to 1970s. They provided a source of entertainment and escapism for the Irish people during a time of cultural stagnation. Their unique blend of traditional Irish music and popular genres, along with their energetic performances and engaging stage presence, captured the hearts and minds of the Irish people. They also played a crucial role in the development of the Irish music industry and became a symbol of Irish identity and pride. The Irish Showbands may have faded away, but their impact on Irish music and culture will always be remembered.
The origins of the Irish Showbands can be traced back to the 1950s, a time when Ireland was still recovering from the economic and social effects of the Second World War. The country was in a state of cultural stagnation, and there was a growing desire for entertainment and escapism among the Irish people. It was during this time that a new type of musical group emerged, one that would fill the void and become an integral part of Irish society – the Showband.
The first Irish Showbands were formed by musicians who had been playing traditional Irish music in local dance halls and pubs. These musicians saw an opportunity to cater to the growing demand for entertainment and began incorporating popular music into their repertoire. This fusion of traditional Irish music with popular genres proved to be a winning formula, and the Showbands quickly gained popularity across the country.
One of the key factors that contributed to the success of the Irish Showbands was their ability to cater to a wide audience. They played a diverse range of music, from traditional Irish jigs and reels to American rock and roll, appealing to both young and old. The Showbands also had a unique style of performance, with their energetic stage presence and colorful costumes, which added to their appeal. They became known for their ability to entertain and engage with their audiences, creating a lively and fun atmosphere at their shows.
One of the most iconic figures associated with the Irish Showbands was the legendary showman, Brendan Bowyer. Bowyer was the lead singer of the Royal Showband, one of the most successful Showbands of the time. He was known for his charismatic stage presence, and his ability to connect with the audience through his music. Bowyer and his band achieved international success, touring extensively in the United Kingdom and the United States, and even appearing on The Ed Sullivan Show in 1965.
The success of the Irish Showbands was not limited to Ireland. They also had a significant impact on the Irish diaspora, particularly in the United States, where Irish immigrants welcomed the familiar sound of the Showbands. They became a symbol of Irish identity and pride, bringing a taste of home to the Irish communities abroad.
The Irish Showbands also played a crucial role in the development of the Irish music industry. Their popularity created a demand for Irish music, leading to the emergence of record labels and recording studios in Ireland. This gave Irish musicians the opportunity to record and release their music, leading to a growth in the Irish music industry.
Despite their immense success and lasting impact, the Irish Showbands began to decline in the late 1970s, with the rise of disco and punk music. The changing musical landscape and the popularity of new genres led to the decline of the Showbands, and many bands disbanded or changed their style to stay relevant. However, the legacy of the Irish Showbands lives on, with many of their songs still popular today and their influence evident in the styles of contemporary Irish musicians.
In conclusion, the Irish Showbands were a defining feature of Irish culture during the 1950s to 1970s. They provided a source of entertainment and escapism for the Irish people during a time of cultural stagnation. Their unique blend of traditional Irish music and popular genres, along with their energetic performances and engaging stage presence, captured the hearts and minds of the Irish people. They also played a crucial role in the development of the Irish music industry and became a symbol of Irish identity and pride. The Irish Showbands may have faded away, but their impact on Irish music and culture will always be remembered.
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A brief history of the showbands that dominated Ireland throughout the 1960s and early 70s with a fusion of pop and folk songs.
In the mid fifties a network of ballrooms sprang up around Ireland. These were alcohol free venues where men and women could meet to socialise, listen to music, dance and sometimes find their life-partners. The entertainment in these "Ballrooms of Romance" was usually provided by groups of 6 to 9 musicians. These showbands were a uniquely Irish phenomenon and they adapted to the musical trends of the day performing the latest international hits with sometimes more flair and colour than the original artists. Many bands quickly became household names and often created intense local anticipation weeks and sometimes months before their performance's Thousands traveled from far and near to see arts like Big Tom And The Mainliners and Larry Cunningham and The mighty Avons. Most showbands featured a lead vocalist many of whom achieved star status. In time many were to peruse very successful solo careers'. these included Joe Dolan of The Drifters, Red Hurley of The Nevadas, Sonny Knowles of The Pacific, Eileen Reid of The Cadets, Dickie Rock of Tho Miami and Brendan Bowyer of The Royal Showband. Throughout the sixties and early seventies the Irish charts reflected he enormous success of the Irish Showbands. Number one hits like Dickie Rock's "Every Step Of The Way", Brendan O'Briens "Little Arrows" and Brendan Bowyer's ' 1 Ran All The Way Home" sold many times more than your average Number one of today. Hutch Moore's "Walking The Streets In The Rain" sold over 60,000 copies and was Ireland's first Euro vision entry in 1965, Other Eurovision entrants included Dickie Rock with, Come Back To Stay in 1966 and Red Hurley with ''When'' in '76. The Irish buying public at that time was very receptive to many styles of music including, pop, country & western and folk. Singers such as Danny Doyle and Johnny McEvoy were very much part of the music scene. Johnny McEvoy had number one hits with The Boston Burglar"[ lyrics ] in 1967 and "Nora" in 1968 and such was Johnny's popularity that he "guested" many times at several showband venues on the same night. Many of the hits from this era were cover versions of successful international recordings such as The Real McCoy's "Quick Joey Small', Brendan O'Brien's "Little Arrows" and Brendan Quinn's "Four In The Morning".The Showbands made a significant contribution to the development of Irish music and the dance halls were learning grounds for musicians who often had to adapt their styles to play and sing rock 'n roll, country 'n' western, Irish folk and pop. The dominance of the showband scene began to wane towards the middle of the seventies as more international acts visited Ireland for live performances and disco's became a trendier place for boy to meet girl.There has been a renewed nostalgic interest in this exciting era and it looks set to remain as an important part of our musical heritage.Jackie Hayden, Music Writer, Hotpress Magazine |
Most Weeks In The Charts
90 Weeks Title: One Day At A Time [ lyrics ] Artist: Gloria and Mississippi Date: 18/08/1977 Position: 1 Written By Kristofferson 72 Weeks Title: Fields Of Athenry Lyrics Artist: Paddy Reilly Date: 31/07/1983 Position: 4 Written By Pete St.John 40 Weeks Title: Men Behind The Wire [ lyrics ] Artist: Barleycorn Date: 01/01/1972 Position: 1 Written By Paddy McGuigan 40 Weeks Title: A Bunch Of Thyme [ lyrics ] Artist: Foster & Allen Date: 28/10/1979 Position: 1 Traditional 39 Weeks Title: 21 Years [ lyrics ] Artist: Dermot Hegarty Date: 24/04/1970 Position: 1 Written By Bob Miller 38 Weeks Title: Riverdance Artist: Bill Whelan Date: 05/05/1994 Position: 1 Bill Wheelan 37 Weeks Title: Do You Want Your Old Lobby Washed Down Artist: Brendan Shine Date: 24/05/1979 Position: 1 Traditional 35 Weeks Title: I Useta Lover (RE 1) Artist: The Saw Doctors Date: 02/08/1990 Position: 1 33 Weeks Title: Grace [ lyrics ] (RE 2) Artist: Jim McCann Date: 03/04/1986 Position: 2 31 Weeks Written By Sean And Frank O'Meara Title-Slaney Valley No 1 1972 Title-Huckelbuck Brendan Boyer No 1 1965 Title-Lovely Leitrim Larry Conningham Jan. 1966 Title - The Sea Around Us The Ludlows. April 1966 Written by Dominin Title-Black And Tan Gun Pat Smyth And Johnny Flynn Showband Title-The Travelling People The Johnstons. August 1966 Written by Ewan McColl Title- The Merry Ploughboy Dermot O'Brien. Oct. 1966 |
Irish showbands were popular music groups that emerged in the 1950s and 1960s in Ireland and became a major part of Irish culture and entertainment. Showbands typically consisted of a group of male musicians who played a variety of instruments like guitars, keyboards, saxophones, trumpets, and drums. They would perform covers of pop, rock n' roll, and country songs as well as some traditional Irish tunes. The bands would tour around Ireland playing shows at dancehalls, hotels, and other venues where people would come to eat, drink, dance, and enjoy the lively music.
At their peak, showbands were wildly popular across Ireland. Their concerts offered an exciting night out for young people and families. The dancehalls would be packed with crowds dancing, singing along, and having great fun. Some of the most successful showbands included The Royal, The Mainliners, and The Indians. These groups became household names. Fans would follow their favorite showbands around the country to attend as many shows as they could. The enthusiastic audiences and packed dance floors gave the showbands an electric energy during their performances. For many years, the showbands defined entertainment in Ireland and were a cherished part of the country's cultural fabric. Their popularity waned in the 1970s as music tastes evolved, but they hold a special place in Ireland's musical and cultural history.
At their peak, showbands were wildly popular across Ireland. Their concerts offered an exciting night out for young people and families. The dancehalls would be packed with crowds dancing, singing along, and having great fun. Some of the most successful showbands included The Royal, The Mainliners, and The Indians. These groups became household names. Fans would follow their favorite showbands around the country to attend as many shows as they could. The enthusiastic audiences and packed dance floors gave the showbands an electric energy during their performances. For many years, the showbands defined entertainment in Ireland and were a cherished part of the country's cultural fabric. Their popularity waned in the 1970s as music tastes evolved, but they hold a special place in Ireland's musical and cultural history.
The showband era flourished in Ireland for over three decades, from approximately 1955 to 1985.
Before showbands, Irish entertainment primarily featured orchestras—bands with 10-12 musicians who sat behind music stands while a band leader took center stage. These orchestras played the Irish dance circuit, performing in small ballrooms and parochial halls across the island.
Remarkably, Ireland boasted hundreds of ballrooms, not only in cities but also in rural areas where two country roads intersected. These ballrooms became the heart of social life, hosting lively dances and memorable performances1.
Contributions and Legacy
The showband era significantly influenced the trajectory of popular music in Ireland. Many of today’s well-known Irish artists and bands trace their roots back to this period.
Whether you were a fan of The Royal, The Capitol, The Memories, Chips, Big Tom, Gloria, Mama’s Boys, or Bagatelle, the showbands left an indelible mark on Irish music history.
Their infectious tunes, spirited stage presence, and ability to connect with audiences continue to resonate with generations of music lovers.
Preserving the Memories
Websites like the Irish Showbands Home Page pay tribute to this golden era. They compile information, photos, memories, and stories related to Irish showbands.
Fans and enthusiasts are encouraged to contribute their own photos, updates, and recollections to build the most comprehensive collection of this unique musical phenomenon.
Dickie Rock, born Richard Rock on October 10, 1936, is an Irish singer who achieved considerable success on the Irish charts during the 1960s. His popularity continued as he remained a beloved live performer and occasionally made chart-topping hits. Let’s delve into his fascinating musical journey:
Early Fame:
Dickie was born in the North Strand, Dublin, and raised in Cabra on Dublin’s Northside.
Between 1963 and 1972, he was one of the frontmen of the Miami Showband, a prominent Irish showband.
With the Miami Showband, he had 13 top ten hits, including seven number ones.
Notably, Dickie Rock and the Miami Showband were the first Irish artists to achieve a straight number one hit with the song “Every Step of the Way” in 1965.
During this time, Rock garnered the kind of mass hysteria typically reserved for legendary acts like The Beatles.
In 1966, he represented Ireland in the Eurovision Song Contest with the song “Come Back to Stay,” finishing joint fourth (alongside Belgium). The song also became a number one hit in Ireland.
Solo Years:
In 1973, Dickie embarked on a solo career while still occasionally performing with the Miami Showband.
His solo journey included hits like “The Last Waltz” (his first solo single), “Back Home Again,” and “It’s Almost Like a Song.”
Later Years:
Remarkably, Dickie Rock continued to tour well into his eighties.
In October 2009, he received a lifetime achievement award after a third RTÉ documentary highlighted his significant role in the Irish showband scene.
In 2019, he announced his final tour, held later that year.
Unfortunately, in 2021, at the age of 84, Rock retired from show business due to hearing problems.
Personal Life:
Dickie married his wife Judy (née Murray) in 1966.
Tragically, Judy passed away in April 2022 after contracting COVID-19.
Before showbands, Irish entertainment primarily featured orchestras—bands with 10-12 musicians who sat behind music stands while a band leader took center stage. These orchestras played the Irish dance circuit, performing in small ballrooms and parochial halls across the island.
Remarkably, Ireland boasted hundreds of ballrooms, not only in cities but also in rural areas where two country roads intersected. These ballrooms became the heart of social life, hosting lively dances and memorable performances1.
Contributions and Legacy
The showband era significantly influenced the trajectory of popular music in Ireland. Many of today’s well-known Irish artists and bands trace their roots back to this period.
Whether you were a fan of The Royal, The Capitol, The Memories, Chips, Big Tom, Gloria, Mama’s Boys, or Bagatelle, the showbands left an indelible mark on Irish music history.
Their infectious tunes, spirited stage presence, and ability to connect with audiences continue to resonate with generations of music lovers.
Preserving the Memories
Websites like the Irish Showbands Home Page pay tribute to this golden era. They compile information, photos, memories, and stories related to Irish showbands.
Fans and enthusiasts are encouraged to contribute their own photos, updates, and recollections to build the most comprehensive collection of this unique musical phenomenon.
Dickie Rock, born Richard Rock on October 10, 1936, is an Irish singer who achieved considerable success on the Irish charts during the 1960s. His popularity continued as he remained a beloved live performer and occasionally made chart-topping hits. Let’s delve into his fascinating musical journey:
Early Fame:
Dickie was born in the North Strand, Dublin, and raised in Cabra on Dublin’s Northside.
Between 1963 and 1972, he was one of the frontmen of the Miami Showband, a prominent Irish showband.
With the Miami Showband, he had 13 top ten hits, including seven number ones.
Notably, Dickie Rock and the Miami Showband were the first Irish artists to achieve a straight number one hit with the song “Every Step of the Way” in 1965.
During this time, Rock garnered the kind of mass hysteria typically reserved for legendary acts like The Beatles.
In 1966, he represented Ireland in the Eurovision Song Contest with the song “Come Back to Stay,” finishing joint fourth (alongside Belgium). The song also became a number one hit in Ireland.
Solo Years:
In 1973, Dickie embarked on a solo career while still occasionally performing with the Miami Showband.
His solo journey included hits like “The Last Waltz” (his first solo single), “Back Home Again,” and “It’s Almost Like a Song.”
Later Years:
Remarkably, Dickie Rock continued to tour well into his eighties.
In October 2009, he received a lifetime achievement award after a third RTÉ documentary highlighted his significant role in the Irish showband scene.
In 2019, he announced his final tour, held later that year.
Unfortunately, in 2021, at the age of 84, Rock retired from show business due to hearing problems.
Personal Life:
Dickie married his wife Judy (née Murray) in 1966.
Tragically, Judy passed away in April 2022 after contracting COVID-19.
