An Icon’s Last note: Remembering Paddy cole
The Irish music world is mourning the loss of Paddy Cole, a beloved entertainer who passed away peacefully at the age of 85. Just weeks after celebrating his birthday on december 17th, Cole succumbed to lung cancer, leaving behind a legacy of vibrant music and infectious energy that touched generations.
Cole’s musical journey began in his early teens,playing his first gig at the tender age of 15 in his hometown of Castleblayney,County Monaghan. Relocating to Dublin, he embarked on a lifelong career that cemented his status as an Irish music legend. His saxophone,clarinet,and vocals filled dance halls and concert stages across Ireland,captivating audiences with a signature blend of jazz,Dixieland,and showband sounds.
“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,” shared Cole’s son,Pat. “From the Capitol Showband to his own Superstars, Paddy’s music transcended generations, creating memories that will forever be cherished.”
The 1960s saw Cole soar to new heights with the Capitol Showband,marking the beginning of a remarkable career filled with collaborations with other Irish music icons. A move to Las Vegas in the 1970s lead him to join The Big Eight Showband alongside singers Brendan Bowyer, Tom Dunphy, and twink. The group even had the extraordinary experience of performing for Elvis Presley, who attended one of their shows and later met with the band on several occasions in his dressing room.
Cole continued to make his mark on the music industry, later fronting The Paddy Cole Superstars, solidifying his household name status and pioneering the Irish music scene. he wasn’t just a talented performer; Cole was also a gifted broadcaster, gracing both RTÉ television and his own radio show, “The Paddy Cole Hour,” on weekend airwaves.
“He was the embodiment of the companionship and magic of a great radio show,” remarked Taoiseach Simon Harris. “His first love always remained performing live, something he continued to do well into his 80s,” Harris continued, highlighting Cole’s enduring passion for music.
Paddy Cole’s legacy extends far beyond his musical prowess. He radiated warmth and kindness, touching the lives of all who knew him. His courage in facing his health challenges with dignity during recent years served as an inspiration to many. His wife Helen, his children Pearse, Pat, and Karen, and countless fans worldwide will deeply miss him.
The music world mourns the loss of another legend. as broadcaster Gerry Kelly aptly put it, “So saddened to learn that another giant of the music business, Paddy cole, has died. A brilliant musician, a trailblazer, and one of the nicest men you could ever wish to meet.”
Remembering paddy Cole: A Musical Legacy That Endures
Paddy Cole, a legendary figure in Irish music, passed away recently, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire musicians and music lovers worldwide. Séamus Higgins,a longtime friend and collaborator,shared his cherished memories of Paddy,painting a vivid portrait of a musical genius and a true gentleman.
Their paths first crossed in the vibrant Dublin music scene of the late 1950s. “We instantly clicked, musically and personally,” Higgins recalls. “We used to jam together at small pubs and late-night sessions,and that’s where our friendship began.”
Cole’s musical versatility was legendary. He effortlessly navigated genres, from jazz and swing to conventional Irish music. Higgins attributes this talent to Cole’s insatiable curiosity and dedication. “Paddy had an insatiable appetite for music. He was always eager to learn new styles, techniques, and even instruments.He was self-taught on the saxophone and later picked up the whistle and the banjo. I remember him spending hours transcribing charts and practicing scales. His dedication, coupled with his natural talent and passion, made him the musical chameleon we all admired.”
Together, Higgins and Cole embarked on a journey that took them across the globe, performing and recording.Their performance at the 1967 Montreal World’s Fair stands out as a especially memorable highlight. “Paddy’s performance that night was electrifying, and the crowd, coming from all four corners of the globe, was absolutely enthralled.It was a proud moment for Irish music and for both of us,” Higgins reminisces.
Cole’s impact on Irish music is immeasurable. Higgins believes he will be remembered as a pioneer who fearlessly pushed boundaries,opening doors for future generations. “Paddy will be remembered as a true pioneer who fearlessly pushed the boundaries of Irish music. He brought his unique sound to international stages, opening doors for future generations of Irish musicians. But more than anything, he’ll be remembered as a gentleman, a mentor, and a friend to all who knew him. He left us with a timeless body of work and unforgettable memories. The music world, and Ireland especially, is a poorer place without him.”
Higgins’ words resonate deeply, capturing the essence of Paddy cole: a musical visionary, a dedicated artist, and a cherished friend. his music continues to inspire, reminding us of the enduring power of passion, talent, and friendship.
Rest in peace, Paddy Cole. May your music play on in the hearts of those who heard it, and may you receive a hero’s welcome in the great session in the sky.
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how does Paddy Cole feel about his longevity in the Irish music scene?
Archyde: Remembering a Legend – A Final interview with Paddy Cole
Archyde’s News Editor, Caitriona Conroy, had the chance to sit down with the legendary paddy Cole a few months before his passing. Here’s an exclusive look into our conversation, where we discussed his remarkable career, his spirit, and his wish for the future of irish music.
Caitriona Conroy (CC): Paddy, it’s an absolute honor to have you here with us today. You’ve been such an integral part of the Irish music scene for decades. How does it feel to look back on your astonishing journey?
Paddy cole (PC): Oh, Caitriona, it’s been a wild ride, hasn’t it? I never thought I would get as far as 85, to be honest. In recent years, I thought, “Sure, will I make it?” But here I am, still keeping my best side out. [Laughs]
CC: Your perseverance and positivity in the face of your health challenges have been an inspiration to so manny. It’s that spirit that has kept you going, I’m sure.
PC: Ah, you know, Caitriona, you’ve got to keep fighting. I’ve had my ups and downs, but music has always been my driving force. It’s like what keeps the tides coming in and going out – it’s just in me.
CC: Speaking of music, you’ve done it all – from playing in dance halls as a teenager to performing for legends like Elvis presley and headlining your own Superstars.What’s been your favourite part of this journey?
PC: You know, every gig has its own magic, its own story. But if I had to pick one, it’d be those early days with the capitol Showband. we where just a bunch of lads, traveling around Ireland, making people happy with our music. There was a genuine joy in it, you know? And then to end up playing for Elvis Presley, well, that was just the cherry on top.
CC: That must have been surreal. How did that come about?
PC: well, we were playing in Las Vegas, and Elvis happened to be in the audience one night. He enjoyed the show so much that he invited us backstage after. We chatted, had a bit of a laugh, and even played a few tunes together.It was an experience I’ll never forget.
CC: And you carried that passion for performing live throughout your career, even into your 80s. What made live performances so special for you?
PC: There’s just nothing quite like feeling that connection with the audience, you know? The energy, the buzz, the pure joy of seeing people lose themselves in the music. It’s a unique kind of magic, and I’ll miss it terribly when I’m gone.
CC: We’ll all miss you, paddy. But your music, your spirit – thay’ll live on. What do you hope your legacy will bring to the future of Irish music?
PC: I hope it brings a reminder of the joy and happiness that music can bring. I always said, “if it sounds good, play it!” – I mean, why overcomplicate things? So, I hope the young musicians coming up take that to heart, keep the traditions alive, and carry on making lovely noise.
CC: Wise words from a true legend. Paddy, thank you so much for joining us today. it’s been an absolute pleasure.
PC: Thank you, Caitriona. It’s been my pleasure. And remember, as long as you can sing, you can still shout! [Laughs]
