Tributes paid to the late Seamus McGee: 'Heaven's choir has a new voice today'

Tributes have been paid following the passing of Seamus McGee, the renowned country music singer, who passed away on Wednesday.

Seamus began his musical career as lead vocalist with the Nashville Showband. A native Irish speaker, he recorded and wrote Irish songs and was a native of Gaoth Dobhair.

He was taught to play piano and accordion by Leo Brennan, father of Enya of ‘Orinoco Flow’ fame and Maire Brennan. Seamus’ debut EP release, featuring such numbers as ‘Donegal Shore’ and ‘Tonight Mary Ann’, received generous airplay and did much to establish his name on the national music scene.

“I’m shocked and saddened to hear of the death of Seamus McGee,” Daniel O’Donnell posted. “I spoke to him on the phone on Tuesday afternoon. On behalf of Majella and myself, I send our sincere sympathy to Sarah, Ciara, Cian and all the McGee family. Rest in Peace Seamus.”

“So sad to hear of the passing of Seamus McGee,” Daniel’s sister Margo said. “May he rest with all the Angels. He was a gentleman and a friend always - we toured England together and I have lovely memories. My sympathies to his wife Sarah and all the family. Heaven's choir has a new voice today. Rest with God my friend. Love Margo xxx”

Jacqui Sharkey, the Scottish-born Gweedore-based country singer posted: “This world lost another 'one-off' today when our beloved friend Seamus was taken from us. The man responsible for kickstarting me into recording, producing most of my recordings and videos, and who remained my biggest supporter and genuine friend until the end. ‘The one and only’ Seamus McGee. He will forever be remembered and missed... until we meet again, my friend…”

Relay for Life Donegal posted: "Very sad to hear yesterday of the passing of our good friend Seamus McGee. He was one of our entertainers who regularly gave of his time freely entertaining us each year at Relay weekend. Seamus had the distinction of being the very first person to offer his services to us in 2011 when he heard we were planning to launch Relay for Life Donegal the following year in 2012. I know you will share his loss with everyone who heard him sing and we will miss him. Condolences to Sarah, Ciara, Cian and all his family and friends. Rest in Peace Seamus. Suaimhneas síoraí dá anam uasal"