Tom McBride (front center) achieved great success
as Big Tom.
Big Tom is one of the true legends of the Irish music
scene. There is no village or town from Antrim down to Kerry that Big Tom
would not be recognised in and made welcome. That is the true extent of
the fame and popularity of one of Ireland's best loved entertainers. Today,
Big Tom, one of nature's gentlemen, remains one of the all-time favourites
with country music followers in these islands.
Of course, the Mainliners are fragmented just now. Henry
McMahon now manages young Kildare sensation Michael English, Ginger Morgan
has his own group,Hot Fever
John Beattie has his own business
Ronnie Duffy the drummer is now playing with his
brother in law Paddy Cole,
in the Jazz Band
Ginger Morgan the Bass Player is still gigging around
the pubs in Monaghan.
John Beattie the Keyboard man has a Taxi firm
Seamus McMahon has gone on to other things.
But if Big Tom comes back they may all get together
again.
“The situation is that if Tom was ready to sing again
the lads would get behind him at least for a time. Yes, there is a fair
chance that Tom and the boys will be back again. I would like to think
that he will sing again,” says his manager.
Big Tom’s trademark was, of course, Irish country. He
had massive hits like Gentle Mother and The Old Log Cabin and, no doubt,
his legions of fans would greatly appreciate a comeback if only for a farewell
tour.
Both my parents worship the Big Man himself Big Tom (my dad
calls him the King of Country)
we took my mum to see him when I was home in Oct 04. this is one
of the pictures of us with the King.
I have to show my folks this they'll be happy to see I can still
feel at home so far away.
Eileen Mulhern.
