A country music legend from Ireland, known for his deep, rich voice and hits like "Four Country Roads" and "Gentle Mother.
With a career spanning over six decades, Big Tom McBride was an Irish country, traditional, and easy listening singer, guitarist, and saxophone player, best known for his iconic voice and his role as the frontman of the Irish showband Big Tom and The Mainliners.
Big Tom's music career began in 1966, and he quickly gained popularity in Ireland and beyond. His unique voice and charismatic stage presence made him a household name, and he became one of the most popular Irish country singers of all time.
Big Tom was recognized for his contributions to Irish music, receiving several awards and accolades, including the Irish Country Music Association's Lifetime Achievement Award.
Big Tom lived in Oram, just outside Castleblayney, where he was known for his generosity and kindness. He was often seen at local events, including the Oram St Patricks Day Parade and football events. A mural of Big Tom can be found on the wall of the Oram Community Centre.
Despite his fear of flying, Big Tom undertook a sea voyage across the Atlantic Ocean in 1980 to record his Blue Wings album in Nashville. In 2000, he underwent a nodule operation on his throat, but continued to perform and record music until his passing in 2018.
Big Tom's legacy continues to inspire new generations of Irish country music fans. His music remains popular to this day, and he is remembered as a true legend of Irish music.
"I'm not a singer, I'm a storyteller. I tell stories through my songs." – Big Tom
Big Tom's career spanned a significant period in Irish music history, from the showband era of the 1960s to the modern country music scene. He was a contemporary of other Irish music legends, including Joe Dolan and Brendan Shine, and his music continues to be compared to that of other country music greats like Johnny Cash and Willie Nelson.
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