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Ronnie Ronnie Drew: The Heart and Soul of a Dublin Legend

Richard Adams

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Ronnie Drew, the beloved Irish folk singer and founding member of The Dubliners, left an enduring legacy that continues to resonate with music lovers worldwide. His distinctive voice, infectious personality, and unwavering commitment to his craft have cemented his place as one of Ireland's most iconic figures. In this comprehensive article, we delve into the remarkable life and career of Ronnie Drew, exploring his rise to fame, his profound impact on Irish music, and the enduring legacy he left behind.

Early Life and Influences

Ronnie Drew was born in Dún Laoghaire, Dublin, on September 16, 1934. Growing up in a musical household, he was exposed to a diverse range of music, from traditional Irish folk to classical and jazz. Drew's early influences included legendary Irish singers such as Luke Kelly and Seán Ó Riada, who ignited his passion for folk music.

Ronnie

by Ronnie Drew

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	8578 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	304 pages

The Dubliners

In 1962, Ronnie Drew co-founded The Dubliners with Luke Kelly, Ciarán Bourke, John Sheehan, and Barney McKenna. The band quickly gained popularity for their captivating live performances and their repertoire of rousing Irish folk songs. Drew's charismatic stage presence, coupled with his powerful vocals, made him an instant favorite with audiences.

With The Dubliners, Ronnie Drew recorded numerous albums and toured extensively throughout Ireland, Europe, and the United States. Their songs, such as "The Irish Rover," "Black Velvet Band," and "Molly Malone," became synonymous with Irish folk music and helped spread its popularity worldwide.

Solo Career

In addition to his work with The Dubliners, Ronnie Drew also pursued a successful solo career. He released several solo albums, including "Ronnie Drew Irish" (1971),"A Couple More Years" (1995),and "El Amor de Mi Vida" (2005). His solo work showcased his versatility as a singer and songwriter, exploring a wider range of musical genres, including traditional Irish, folk-rock, and Latin music.

Drew's solo career allowed him to delve into personal themes and explore his own experiences. His lyrics often touched upon themes of love, loss, and his deep connection to his Irish heritage.

Personal Life and Legacy

Ronnie Drew was known for his infectious personality and his unwavering commitment to his craft. He was a passionate advocate for Irish music and culture, both at home and abroad. Drew was a beloved figure in Irish society and was honored with numerous awards and accolades throughout his career.

In 2007, Drew was diagnosed with lung cancer. Despite his illness, he continued to perform and record music until his passing on January 14, 2008, at the age of 73.

Ronnie Drew's legacy as one of Ireland's greatest folk singers stands firm. His unique voice, compelling stage presence, and unwavering dedication to his music have left an enduring mark on Irish culture. Drew's songs continue to be sung and cherished by generations of music lovers worldwide, ensuring that his spirit will live on forever.

Ronnie Drew Discography

Solo Albums

* Ronnie Drew Irish (1971) * A Couple More Years (1995) * El Amor de Mi Vida (2005) * Ronnie Drew: The Early Years (2012)

With The Dubliners

* The Dubliners with Luke Kelly (1964) * In Concert (1965) * A Drop of the Hard Stuff (1967) * Live at the Albert Hall (1968) * At Home with The Dubliners (1969) * Revolution (1970) * On the Road (1971) * A Parcel of Rogues (1972) * Seven Deadly Sins (1973) * The Dubliners (1974) * Live (1975) * Hometown (1976) * At Their Best (1977) * Together Again (1979) * Authorised Bootleg (1981) * Prodigals (1982) * Now (1987) * Tiomán (1988) * Belfast Boy (1989) * Dublin 21 (1992) * 30 Years A-Greying (1993) * Further Along (1996) * Alive Alive-O! (1997) * Live at Vicar Street (2002) * Forty Years (2002) * A Time to Remember (2003) * Live in Concert (2006)

Ronnie Drew was a true icon of Irish music, a man whose voice and spirit touched the hearts of countless people around the world. Through his work with The Dubliners and his solo career, Drew played a pivotal role in bringing Irish folk music to the forefront of the international stage. His legacy as a musician, a performer, and a cultural ambassador will continue to inspire generations to come.

Whether you're a lifelong fan, a newcomer to his music, or simply appreciate the enduring power of traditional Irish folk, Ronnie Ronnie Drew is a book that will captivate and inspire. This comprehensive biography delves into the life and career of a man who dedicated his life to his craft and left an indelible mark on the world of music.

Ronnie

by Ronnie Drew

4.5 out of 5