Barney-McKenna-Obituary

Barney "Banjo" McKenna

Obituary

DUBLIN (AP) - Friends and authorities say "Banjo" Barney McKenna, the last original member of the Irish folk band The Dubliners, has died. He was 72 and had just marked his 50th year with the band.

Eyewitnesses say McKenna was drinking tea with friends in his home Thursday and appeared to fall asleep. He couldn't be revived and was pronounced dead at a Dublin hospital.

McKenna was considered the most influential banjo player in Irish folk music. He spent a half-century performing, recording and touring with the band since its 1962 creation in the Dublin pub O'Donoghue's. The other three founders - Ronnie Drew, Ciaran Bourke and Luke Kelly - died in 2008, 1988 and 1984 respectively.

McKenna received a standing ovation at his final Dublin performance Wednesday.


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You were the Best, We will all miss you. Now the Angles can enjoy you talent and wit.

We look forward to seeing you in perfect condition under God's Kingdom rule soon - Matthew 6:9,10.

Saw the splendid performance at Leeds Grand Theatre on Mothers Day and remembered myself to the group from past association with them. It was a spectacular evening and I'm SO glad I was able to see them together although I missed Ronnie being there. At least Barney made that 50 year anniversary tour and I'm so pleased he was able to. Great memories of a band I've followed for most of that time!

Sorry to hear of Banjo's death. I pray that his family, friends, and fans have comfort from "the God of all comforts".

Dear ol' Barney, you enriched all of our lives with your magic; thank you so much lovely man and God bless. Ken and Lynda Sumbler

Thank you, Barney. You made the world a better place, and my life brighter.

Dear Barney,

were ever you are now -I know in Fiddlers Green!-, best wishes for a ever good life there. Drag the Banjo whenever you've time therfor. That was your passion in the short time of your life on this little earth.
Also the best wishes from me sister. She saw you first on stage 3 years ago in Beverungen/Germany and loves your musik and entertainment from that moment, he saw you.
Barney, you where a Man, we don't met every day.

Thank you for your musik!!!

Rest In Peace Barney.

John Cormack

llandudno North Wales