President Michael Higgins has led tributes to the legendary Irish entertainer Dickie Rock who passed away yesterday at age 88.
The President described him as a performer of the highest quality, adding his popularity – both in the Miami Showband and as a solo artist – was such that he remained a hugely popular entertainer through succeeding generations.
The performers death was announced by his children in a brief statement last night.
Dickie Rock was born on Dublin’s North Strand in 1936 and grew up in Cabra, where he first made a name for himself as a singer.
He had a hugely successful career, enjoying multiple hit records during his time with the Miami Showband.
One of their hits ‘To Whom it Concerns’, became the signature tune of The Late Late Show.
He also represented Ireland as a solo act in the 1966 Eurovision Song Contest with his song ‘Come Back to Stay’.
He finished fourth in the contest, with the song going on to become a number one hit in Ireland.
He went solo in the 1970’s but still continued to perform with the Miami Showband.
In October 2009, he received a lifetime achievement award.
He continued to perform until his retirement in 2021 at the age of 84, due to hearing problems.
He is survived by his children Jason, John, Richard, Sarah Jane and Peter.
Irish Singing Icon from the showband era Dickie Rock preforming in Dublin. 26/9/1986 Pic Eamonn Farrell/RollingNews.ie