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Liam, last of Clancy Brothers, dies in Ireland

DONAL THORNTON,

Irish Central.com

Published Friday, December 4, 2009, 2:34 PM

Updated Friday, December 4, 2009, 4:42 PM

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Legendary singer Liam Clancy has died aged 74.

Liam Clancy, the famed "last man standing" from the Clancy Brothers and Tommie Makem, died in Ireland today.

Clancy, who had been ill for some time, died in hospital in Cork.

The youngest of 11 children, Clancy followed his brothers Paddy and Tom to New York from Carrick on Suir.

Paddy and Tom were already performing in the Big Appple with well-known Armagh singer Tommy Makem and young Liam joined up with them.

Performing as The Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem they became international stars after a performance on the Ed Sullivan show.

Bob Dylan said Liam was "the best ballad singer I've ever heard" died in hospital in Cork early this afternoon

The Clancys' mother sent them all their trademark Aran jumpers fearing her boys would freexe in the harsh New York winters.

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edbutler | Dec 07, 2009, 02:55 PM EST

My Wife and I were fortunate enough to seen the Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem in concert in the U.S numerous times. We especially enjoyed their appearances at the Irish Fests in Milwaukee, where they mingled with the crowd between sets. They were wonderful performers who could captivate a crowd. I especially remember Liam's versions of the Parting Glass, Peggy Gordon.The Band played Waltzing Matilda and The Patriot Game. We treasure the tapes and Cd's of their music we have collected thru the years and play them in our car often. God Bless them all.

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bfaulkner | Dec 07, 2009, 01:30 PM EST

The world is now poorer with the passing of one of the world's greatest Ballad singers, Liam Clancy, gone on to join his brothers and Tommy Makem. Rest in Peace, Liam.

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pkeoughan | Dec 07, 2009, 12:32 PM EST

Liam Clancy signed a record album for me in the 70's. At my request he wrote the name of the Irish drum on the drom on the back of the album with a smile. He was my favorite singer and I am very sad today.

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eileenkny | Dec 07, 2009, 11:28 AM EST

I had the opportunity to see the Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem live twice. The first time was back in the '70s. A good friend and I went to New Jersey to a small club and Liam spotted my friend in the crowd. He came over, sat down and chatted her up. Since I was on the periphery I had the chance to just sit and watch. He was a charmer and a gentleman. The world has lost a prince.

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Lowcarbmusic | Dec 05, 2009, 10:04 PM EST

It was a joy to listen to and also to meet The Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem. As kids we learned all their songs and sang them! Liam was a dear favourite of mine, a cheeky grin and a moving, warm voice. I hope they all know now the happiness they brought to people's lives all around the world. The Parting Glass still runs deep down under my skin. Angels take thee to rest.

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Alphonse | Dec 05, 2009, 06:39 AM EST

Liam, Great musician and entertainer,was Ireland Himself,we all must go, but Liam was a great one and is a pity to see him go so great talent and Irishman........Alphonse

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brianmack | Dec 04, 2009, 08:42 PM EST

One of the top groups in the sixties! Clancy Bros./T. Makem were as gifted in their genre as were R.Dylan, Springsteen, Peter Paul Mary and so many more. Last of the great!

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cartersmate35 | Dec 04, 2009, 05:56 PM EST

Musicians die, but the SOUNDS live on...Irish music will ALWAYS lift the soul. And Susan Boyle has the gift of music...all the Islands breed THAT! America, my home, is a lovely country, but Ireland (County Tipperary) will always be home to my heart!

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OldBull | Dec 04, 2009, 05:10 PM EST

In his honor, I will spin my recordings of "Wild Colonial Boy" and "The Croppy Boy"! A sad passing, indeed!

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kickstar | Dec 04, 2009, 03:58 PM EST

Very sad news and the end of a truly great performer and a wonderful human being,RIP Liam Clancy

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