Christie Hennessy

One of Ireland's greatest men of songs, Christie Hennessy has died. Christie sadly passed away this morning in a London hospice. He was reported to have died from complications of asbestosis.
Christie had cancelled his recent gigs due to ill health and hasn't been on stage since his tour in March and April in Ireland.
As recently as Friday, Hennessy posted a message on the site wishing his fans a happy Christmas and thanking them for their love and support.
He is survived by his wife, Jill, daughters Hermione and Amber and son Tim.

Christy was a very special man, remarkably kind and humble, a rare human being for those qualities alone. His singing ability was both great and unique, a beautiful Irish sound that has no real comparison. Christy was born in Tralee, County Kerry. He left school at the age of twelve, because of learning difficulties, he left illiterate, told by his ignorant school master that he would end up a nothing in life. At the time of his death he was still unable to read or write, but still enjoyed his library of books.
Literacy was no bar to Christie's creativity, a renowned songwriter as well as performer, he wrote many songs that became hits for other singers including 'Don't Forget your Shovel' and 'Messenger boy', made famous by Christy Moore, and 'All the Lies that You Told Me', recorded by Frances Black.

Christie first job was as a messenger boy, and it was then that he discovered that it was important to be able to read. He later worked at building sites in London. He worked for many years in England and achieved commercial success following the release of his album The Rehearsal, in 1992.

A statement, posted on his official website earlier today, said: "It is with great sadness that we announce that Christie passed away this morning. We just want you all to know how much that Christie appreciated your love and support over the years. He will be sadly missed by all."

Christie's typical humility and depth of kindness shines in this interview, he talks about songwriting, dyslexia.

Irish Community Video

Christie Hennessy the gifted song man
Don't Forget Your Shovel
Christie's latest single - A Price For Love
Written by Christie following his trip to Kenya with the Irish charity Children In Crossfire, for the people of Africa, and to commemorate the charity's tenth anniversary.
Christie and the record label will donate all record royalties earned form this track to the charity forever.
Christie Hennessy
Hennessy's first album was released in 1972, but his first major success came in 1992 with the release of The Rehearsal, which went triple platinum. He also wrote songs for other artists, including Don't Forget Your Shovel for Christy Moore.
On his website today Moore described Hennessy as the "most beautiful of men, family man, wonderful friend, writer and singer of magical songs".

Fine Gael Kerry North TD Jimmy Deenihan said Hennessy was one of the "most successful and respected Kerry singers ever, both nationally and internationally. He was highly regarded amongst his fellow singers, and his songs brought joy and happiness to thousands," Mr Deenihan said.

God rest his soul

Register

The Irish Community have posted
6 REPLIES TO THIS TOPIC
for logged in members to view.

Irish Forums Message Discussion :: Christie Hennessy

Christie Hennessy

Irish Community Video