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Big Tom: The King of Irish Country

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Big Tom McBride was an Irish country music singer and songwriter. He was known as "The King of Irish Country" and was one of the most popular and successful Irish country music artists of all time.

Early life

Big Tom was born in Castleblayney, County Monaghan, Ireland, on 18 September 1936. He was the youngest of six children. His father was a farmer and his mother was a schoolteacher. Big Tom grew up on a farm and learned to play the accordion at a young age.

Big Tom: The King of Irish Country

by Richard Walters

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
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In 1958, Big Tom moved to Dublin to pursue a career in music. He played in a number of bands and released his first single, "Gentle Mother", in 1961. The single was a success and Big Tom soon became one of the most popular country music artists in Ireland.

Career

Big Tom's career spanned over 50 years. He released over 50 albums and had numerous hit singles. He toured extensively throughout Ireland and the UK, and also performed in the United States and Canada.

Big Tom's music was known for its catchy melodies and heartfelt lyrics. He often sang about the simple things in life, such as love, family, and home. His songs resonated with people from all walks of life and he became known as the "voice of the people".

Big Tom was also a successful businessman. He owned a number of pubs and hotels and was also involved in property development. He was a generous man and often donated money to charities.

Personal life

Big Tom married his wife, Rose, in 1964. They had six children together. Big Tom was a devoted family man and enjoyed spending time with his wife and children.

Big Tom died on 11 April 2018, at the age of 81. He had been suffering from cancer for a number of years. His death was a great loss to the Irish country music community and to his many fans around the world.

Legacy

Big Tom was one of the most popular and successful Irish country music artists of all time. His music touched the lives of millions of people and he will be remembered as a true legend of Irish country music.

In 2019, a statue of Big Tom was unveiled in his hometown of Castleblayney. The statue is a fitting tribute to a man who brought joy to so many people.

Big Tom: The King of Irish Country

by Richard Walters

4.6 out of 5