Statement by President Higgins on the death of Dickie Rock
Date: Fri 6th Dec, 2024 | 23:08
"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.
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."