Ronnie Drew

Yesterday's death of the leading Dubliner Ronnie Drew marked the passing of one of Ireland's greatest singers. His gravelly voice was unique; his storytelling captivating; and his ability to survive and thrive through four decades of music remarkable. We saw him in Cork two years ago at a concert where Liam Clancy also played, and one felt one was in the presence of a musical giant, even if the voice was not all that it had been. The late Luke Kelly may have been the intellectual driving force of the Dubliners; Ronnie was their heart and soul. He will be missed.