Irish Eurovision singer Dickie Rock has died aged 88-Asyia Iftikhar-Entertainment – Metro

Dickie Rock has died aged 88 (Picture: Getty)

Irish singer Dickie Rock, best known for representing Ireland in Eurovision, has died aged 88 his family has confirmed.

The music artist took part in the 1966 song contest where he came in fourth place with his number one song, Come Back To Stay.

His death comes after his wife of 56 years, Judy, died in 2022 after contracting Covid-19.

A statement issued by his family on Friday read: ‘His children, Jason, John, Richard, Sarah Jane and Peter will miss him very much.

‘Dickie lost his beloved Judy in 2022 and they are now together again, and that is of some comfort to the family.’

At one point in his career he was part of Irish rock group, The Miami Showband, which he fronted until 1972.

The late singer topped the charts with Come Back To Stay (Picture: Getty)

Current member, Stephen Travers, wrote a tribute on X, saying: ‘I am so very sad to hear of the passing of Dickie Rock. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.’

He was echoed by fellow bandmate Des Lee who said it was ‘very very sad news’ and ‘may he rest in peace’ in a post on Facebook.

During his time in the band he released To Whom It Concerns which became the signature tune of RTÉ’s flagship Friday night programme The Late Late Show, per the BBC.

President of Ireland Michael D Higgins also extended his condolences to the Dublin-born artist’s family.

The 83-year-old public figure wrote: ‘May I join with all those who have expressed their sadness on learning of the death of Dickie Rock.

‘The showband period in Irish popular culture made a huge contribution to the history of Irish music, and indeed to that of Britain where many of the showbands toured during Lent as ballrooms in Ireland closed.

‘The major showbands such as the Miami Showband produced star performers, of whom Dickie Rock was an iconic figure.

‘A performer of the highest quality, Dickie Rock’s popularity, both in the Miami Showband and as a solo artist, was such that he remained a hugely popular entertainer through succeeding generations.

Dickie’s wife of over five decades, Judy, died in 2022 (Picture: MOSPhotography)

He was also known for being the frontman of The Miami Showband

‘May I extend my deepest sympathies to Dickie’s children Jason, John, Richard, Sarah Jane and Peter, and to all of his family, friends and many fans throughout Ireland and abroad.’

Micheál Martin, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minster for Defence posted he was ‘saddened’ to hear ‘an iconic performer who charmed and entertained generations’ had died.

He continued: ‘The end of an era stretching from Eurovision and the Miami Showband in the 60s until modern times. A gentleman loved by many. My condolences to his family and friends.’

Fans have also paid tribute to his mammoth legacy.

‘A true Irish superstar when we badly needed them. He brought colour , joy and music to a grey Ireland. From the candy store on the corner to the chapel on the hill , a legend,’ @joeliveline shared.

‘Sorry to hear of Dickie Rock’s passing, aged 88. One of the smoothest crooners to ever grace a stage. Condolences to Dickie’s family and huge circle of friends,’ @johncreedon echoed.

‘We’re sad to hear of Dickie Rock’s passing,’ organisation Give Us The Night wrote.

‘The showband era has been a long-time inspiration to us. As its lead star, Dickie helped to cultivate a thriving music scene and fanatical community following within Ireland. A bonafide legend of modern music here, and a gentleman.’

Tributes have poured in from former bandmates, politicians and fans (Picture: Don MacMonagle)

‘End of an era. Dickie Rock was the first real Irish superstar to emerge from the music scene. A brilliant showman who brought joy to thousands. Sleep easy boss,’ @AonghusMcAnally said.

Belfast’s Lord-Lieutenant Dame Fionnuala Jay-O’Boyle added: ‘For many people in the city, Dickie personified an era of more innocent times of fun, music and freedom. He will be much missed and greatly mourned. Requiescat in Pace.’

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