BIRMINGHAM musician Rich McMahon has passed away just days after playing a successful gig at the Hare and Hounds pub in Kings Heath.
The former lead singer with The Father Teds, who is well known among the Irish community across the Midlands, died suddenly on Monday, May 18, his wife Maggie confirmed today.
Born in Coventry, but raised in Co. Wicklow in Ireland, the popular musician was into his thirties when he decided to embark on a full-time music career.
McMahon addressed themes of “identity and borders, the personal and the political” in his music, with his latest album, Songs of Exile, Love & Dissent, produced by the award-winning Gerry Diver, who has also worked with Christy Moore and Shane MacGowan.
Although the details surrounding his death are unclear as yet, the musician was due to play a gig in Nuneaton with Sean Cannon of the Dubliners in early July.
“I am saddened and regret to have to let you know that Rich passed away on Monday, May 18,” his wife Maggie said today.
“As you can imagine our families and I are devastated and are in the process of coming to terms with this sad news.”
She added: “Rich's passion, drive and love for his music has brought him in touch with some wonderful people and I know he felt privileged to work with each one of them.”
Funeral arrangements have yet to be announced.
