Dubliners Singer Ronnie Drew Dies

Dubliners Singer Ronnie Drew Dies

Saturday, August 16, 2008 |

Legendary Irish folk singer and musician Ronnie Drew died on Saturday in Dublin at the age of 73.

The founder of the Dubliners, who recorded with artists such as The Pogues and Christy Moore over a career that spanned five decades, passed away at St. Vincent's Private Hospital after a lengthy illness, the hospital announced in a news release on behalf of Drew's family.

Drew, who grew up in Dun Laoghaire outside Dublin, was known for his unique, gravelly singing voice. As a young man, he spent time in Spain where he learned flamenco guitar, and he accompanied his songs on a Spanish guitar.

In 1962, he formed The Dubliners, first known as The Ronnie Drew Group, and left to pursue a solo career in 1995.

The group originally included fellow Irish music legends Luke Kelly, Ciaran Bourke and Barney McKenna.

"Whether as part of the Dubliners or during his solo career, Ronnie will be remembered at home and around the world," Brian Cowan, Ireland's taoiseach or prime minister, told The Irish Times.

"He bore his illness with bravery and will be sadly missed," Cowan added.

Drew underwent six months of treatment for throat cancer two years ago.

Earlier this year, members of U2 joined fellow Irish musicians Sinead O'Connor, Shane McCowan, Moore and others to record a tribute song, The Ballad of Ronnie Drew.

Profits from the release of the single went to the Irish Cancer Society.

"Ronnie is like the King of Ireland and we are his subjects," U2 frontman Bono said when the record was released. "This is a big fight for him. But, like for any fighter, it's easier if there's a crowd cheering."

Drew is survived by two children and five grandchildren.