Johnny McEvoy

This article is about the Irish singer. For the British cyclist, see Jonathan McEvoy.

Johnny McEvoy (born 24 April 1945) is an Irish singer and entertainer of Country and Irish genre born in Banagher, County Offaly, Ireland.

Biography

He was initially part of a duo called "Ramblers Two", the other member being fellow art student Michael Crotty. After a stint touring Ireland and England in the mid-sixties, the two went their separate ways. Johnny McEvoy's first big break came in late 1966 when he recorded "Mursheen Durkin," an old ballad from the west of Ireland. It topped the charts at Number 1 for three consecutive weeks. It was followed by "The Boston Burglar" which also reached No 1 in the charts. His first tour to the U.S. was in 1967, highlighted by a concert at New York City's Carnegie Hall. It was at this stage he had his third Number 1 Hit with the song "Nora" (a version of When You and I Were Young, Maggie)," from Sean O'Casey's famous play The Plough And The Stars.

He later formed a band in the 1970s. He wrote his first song "Long Before Your Time." It too reached Number 1. He went on to write many more songs, many of which have become standards that have been recorded by other artists including "Long Before Your Time," "Michael," "Going To California," "The Ballad Of John Williams," "Richman's Garden," "Never Learned To Dance," and "The Ballad of Anne Frank."

In 2010 a documentary on the life and times of Johnny McEvoy, "For the Poor and for the Gentry," was televised. For the production of the documentary McEvoy re-recorded his first Number One hit, most popular and biggest selling song "Mursheen Durkin," a collaboration recording with Sharon Shannon and her Big Band. The renewal of the classic was also included on a double album and DVD "For the poor and for the Gentry - The Definitive Johnny McEvoy," which was released later that year.

McEvoy's wife died early in 2015.

Live performances

Aside from an illustrious recording career, Johnny McEvoy is perhaps best known for his live performances and tours in Ireland and on the international circuit. His renown is worldwide and he has spent many years travelling and performing.

Discography

Singles

Albums

The entertainer has released numerous albums in more recent years, the most successful being Going To California, The Legendary Collection, and 20 Collected Irish Ballads.

References

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