Showband singer and saxophone player Paddy Cole has died at the age of 85.
The musician’s death comes after he was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2022. Cole celebrated his 85th birthday on December 17th.
He was receiving hospice care at the time of his death.
Cole’s career began in the 60s with The Capitol Showband and he moved to Las Vegas in the early 70s to join The Big Eight Showband, featuring singers Brendan Bowyer, Tom Dunphy and Twink.
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Dubbed the ‘King of the Swingers’, the Co Monaghan native gave his first performance at the age of 12 in his hometown of Castleblayney, billed as ‘Ireland’s youngest saxophone player’.
His son Pat confirmed that the musician died on Wednesday afternoon.
He said in a statement: “The music world mourns the loss of the legendary Paddy Cole, a beloved entertainer who brought joy to thousands with his vibrant personality and infectious music.
“From the Capitol Showband to his own Superstars, Paddy Cole’s saxophone, clarinet, and vocals filled dance halls and concert stages with his signature blend of jazz, Dixieland, and showband sounds. His music transcended generations, creating memories that will forever be cherished.
“On behalf of his family, we express our deepest gratitude for the outpouring of love and support during this difficult time. Paddy’s legacy will live on through the music he created and the joy he shared with the world.
“Rest in peace, Paddy Cole.”
President Michael D Higgins paid tribute to the musician, saying: “The loss of Paddy Cole is the loss of one of the founding icons of the great period of the Irish showbands.
“From the Capitol Showband to the great brass sound, what Paddy Cole did for music and for jazz will be remembered across generations.
“The significance of the showband era is perhaps one of the insufficiently recognised aspects of Irish music history. There are places that became famous because of the artists they produced. Castleblayney, always known as ‘Blayney’, is one such place for producing Paddy.
“Paddy Cole’s music was first class, with jazz of international quality, and Sabina and I knew and admired him as a friend.
“May I send our condolences to Paddy’s wife, Helen, to his children Pat, Pearse and Karen, and to all of his family, fellow musicians and many friends.”
This article was amended on Thursday, January 23rd, to correct the date of Paddy Cole’s birthday
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