Emotional tributes paid to Limerick music legend Johnny Fean
TRIBUTES have been paid following the passing of legendary guitarist and singer Johnny Fean.
A member of the Celtic rock band Horslips, Johnny (71) was born at Henry Street in Limerick city and grew up in the Garryowen area with his father working at Shannon Airport.
He passed away on Friday last at his home in Shannon, sparking sadness across the music industry.
In a statement, Horslips described Johnny as “our guitar hero”.
The band members added: “Johnny wasn't only one of the greatest guitar players ever, he was also the sweetest man in rock and roll. His immeasurable talent won him countless supporters throughout the years. We remain his biggest fans. He devoted his life to music, and we’ll be forever thankful that he did.”
Locally, Mick and Valerie Dolan, who run the live music venue Dolan’s described Johnny’s passing as “a massive loss to music in Limerick and Clare. Absolutely heartbroken to hear this news. Thinking of Maggie and the Fean family.”
Horslips was formed by drummer Eamon Carr, multi-instrumentalists Jim Lockhart and Charles O'Connor, and bassist Barry Devlin in 1970, with Johnny joining two years later.
They are regarded as founding fathers of Celtic rock, with hits including Dearg Doom and Trouble with a Capital T.
As well as guitar, Johnny played the banjo, mandolin and harmonica.
Prior to his death, Johnny also played with former Miami Showband bassist Steve Travers in The Johnny Fean Band.
He had also reunited with Horslips, the group playing on and off since 2009 on comeback tours.
Johnny's Funeral Mass will take place at Mary Immaculate Church in Shannon this Thursday.