Latest news with #Frankie
Irish Post
9 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Irish Post
Another chapter in the De Dannan story
Stage three cancer, lost friends, legal rows, but Frankie Gavin is still standing, still fiddling, still Frankie Mary Black, Frankie Gavin, Michelle Lally and Eric Cunningham (picture Sasko Lazarov: HAVING played for four American Presidents, somehow it seemed appropriate and amusing to be meeting up with my old friend, the virtuoso fiddler Frankie Gavin, at The President Hotel in Bloomsbury. When he was just six years old, Frankie had played for President John F. Kennedy, but was later invited by George W. Bush, followed by Bill Clinton and Obama. Frankie was in London with the latest iteration of his group De Dannan to headline one of the 'Return to London' concerts promoted by Irish Music and Dance London at the Bloomsbury Theatre. In recent years I have had a cardinal rule that, when meeting people of my own generation, I never, under any circumstances, risk asking them how they are — as inevitably they will answer with lurid descriptions of recent medical procedures. However, here, before talking about music, I broke the rule immediately, as I was most concerned to find out if Frankie had recovered from his recent cancer scare. Mercifully, he told me he was fine — but had been very lucky. 'I had stage three oesophageal cancer,' Frankie said. 'And a friend of mine who's a doctor — he's actually a gastroenterologist in Dublin — he got me checked out, basically because it was just after Covid and it was impossible to get appointments. It was very difficult. But he got me an appointment in Dublin, as I was burping and then not being able to swallow food — it would just get stuck there and I couldn't swallow. So I was fading away with hunger and it was just awfully upsetting. 'It so happened that my daughter Ruby saw an article in The New York Times . She was in New York at the time and she saw this article about a game-changer in oesophageal cancer by two Irish doctors — Dr Greg Leonard, and another doctor who lives in America. 'Where does he live, this Greg Leonard? Only Galway! Praise be to God. So I was on to him and he took on my case. When I met him, he looked, like, very serious. 'I mean, it was stage three. You know what I mean? I mean stage anything is bad — but stage three? You're a goner anyway. So it was just got in time. But anyway, he said, this is what we're gonna do: we're gonna have this, we're gonna do that, we're gonna have radiotherapy. We're gonna have to get all the chemo and all this kind of stuff that nearly killed me anyway, you know. 'And I mean, they eventually had the tubes into me just to feed me, like. You know, he got me through all that, and I had an absolute resurgence of health — and hair growth. 'The next thing was he contacted me and said, 'I'd like to see you in the office.' I thought: this is serious. This means really bad news. 'He said, 'Have a look there.' 'I said, 'I can't see anything.' 'He said, 'That's the point. There's nothing. It's completely clear.' It was like an absolute miracle. The powers of modern science and all the rest of it — also known as the grace of God.' I was obviously delighted to hear this news, and certainly Frankie did seem to have his old mischievous sparkle back. I noted that (characteristically for Frankie) he complained on the way to the venue that he had paid for dinner — because, as we ate at his hotel, it just went on to his room bill. Our friendship/business relationship all started such a long time ago — back in about 1976. The original De Dannan, formed in Spiddal near Galway after enjoying sessions in Hughes's pub, consisted of Frankie, Alec Finn, Ringo McDonagh and Charlie Piggot. Dolores Keane joined them on their first album — which was produced by Dónal Lunny for Polydor. This was released in early 1976 but unfortunately, soon after the release, Dolores left the band. Frankie took up the story: 'John Faulkner came to Ireland with the BBC crew to make a documentary about Irish music and the next thing was, John and Dolores teamed up. 'Dolores announced: 'I'm leaving the band. I'm going to live with John in Palmers Green in London.' 'The news — ah, it was a terrible moment. My heart sank when she left. It was sad, a really sad day, but we had to carry on. So after Dolores, we had Andy Irvine briefly, and we did the tour of Germany with Andy. There was a conflict with Andy's own dates so he left and Johnny Moynihan came in — and perhaps that was when we asked you to come in and help with management and to organise a UK tour and get us a new record deal.' I THINK Andy or Johnny had mentioned my name to Alec, as a year before, in 1975, I had organised the Planxty UK tour, which they were on. So Alec called me, and I remember the first time I saw the band was at the Project Arts Theatre in Dublin, at the back of the Clarence Hotel. I recalled to Frankie: 'From then I spent loads of time with you in Galway. I would stay, along with my family, at Oranmore Castle with Alec and Leonie, and we all became good friends, doing several projects over the years.' The first of these projects was Frankie's next album Selected Jigs and Reels , which we eventually signed to Decca. I had become Head of Promotion for the label. I brought Roger Perry over to do great pictures in the castle, which went on the posters and album cover. From then on, there were myriad albums and a few tours and festivals. Maura O'Connell joined the group and recorded the Song for Ireland album in Windmill Lane Studio, but then — before release — Maura left. That was when a young Mary Black… I reminded Frankie that we'd brought Mary to London and, in Livingston Studios in Wood Green, we took Maura's voice off the multi-tracks and recorded Mary. I still think her version of Song for Ireland is the absolute best, and it was great to film you all performing it in a 'summer sunset' for the Windmill Lane Co-Production TV programme. I still have the large 2-inch master tapes. Around that time, I was coordinating the music for the big TV drama series for Channel Four and PBS in America, The Irish RM , with Peter Bowles, Beryl Reid and Bryan Murray, so I brought De Dannan over to Olympic Studios in Barnes to record all the ethnic Irish music elements for the 18-week series. 'That was a lot of fun,' I said to Frankie. 'Although not without De Dannan dramas.' The band were no strangers to drama and legal disputes, including a long, much-publicised spat when Frankie and founder member Alec fell out publicly and did not speak for several years. Fortunately, these two old friends and creative collaborators made their peace before Alec Finn sadly died in November 2018. Previously I had half-jokingly suggested to Frankie that he could be considered the Irish version of John Mayall — as over all these years, so many new young Irish musicians had been given an early break with one of the many De Dannan line-ups and had then gone on to forge their own highly successful careers. And I wondered how he found these new, exceptionally talented musicians. 'Well, some come to me,' he said, 'but then somebody would tip me off and say, listen, check out so-and-so. I mean, wait until you hear this team that are playing with me this evening… I'm back playing music happier than I ever was before, and healthier than I ever was before — happier being the most important detail.' I was soon to discover that this new line-up of the legendary group De Dannan is as creative and inspiring as any from the band's long history and, apart from featuring the inimitable Frankie Gavin on fiddle and flute, it included Diarmuid Ó Meachair (melodeon/button accordion), Ian Kinsella (guitar), Kaitlin Cullen-Verhauz (vocals/cello), and Jack Talty (keys). For sure, they did not disappoint me — or the enthusiastic, knowledgeable audience. An added bonus was to hear the beautiful voice of Kaitlin, who gave us moving renditions of a Percy French song as well as an emotional interpretation of Follow Me Up to Carlow — a song usually sung by men. Once again, Frankie has a great new incarnation of De Dannan and, happily — by the grace of God — we have the reincarnation of the everlasting Frankie Gavin and De Dannan. Frankie tuning up (photo Mick McDonagh) De Dannan: the shape-shifters of Irish traditional IN THE grand constellation of Irish traditional music, a coterie of bands come to mind: the Clancys, the Dubliners, the Chieftains, Planxty, the Bothy Band. Each forged a path that left the tradition both richer and more expansive than they found it. Among them, De Dannan occupies a curious but critical place — a band of brilliant contradictions, shape-shifters who somehow managed to be both radical and rooted, mischievous and masterful. De Dannan emerged just as the Irish folk revival of the 1960s and early 1970s was entering a more experimental phase. With Frankie Gavin's dazzling fiddle at the centre — dexterous, daring — the band quickly carved a distinct sound. Alec Finn's bouzouki, Charlie Piggot's banjo, and Ringo McDonagh's bodhrán created a rhythmic and harmonic bedrock that allowed experimentation to take place on its foundations. If the Dubliners popularised Irish music for the pub and the parlour, and the Chieftains brought it to the concert hall, De Dannan brought it to the cabaret and, occasionally, the circus. They recorded reels at breakneck speeds, borrowed freely from classical and pop, and weren't above throwing in a Beatles cover or a Strauss waltz mid-set. Their 1980s version of Hey Jude on fiddle and harpsichord became a talking point — and a dividing line. Purists scoffed, but others hailed them as genre-benders long before the word existed. Arguably, De Dannan were not as seminal as the Bothy Band in terms of redefining the template of the Irish trad group, nor as foundational as Planxty in blending song and instrumental sophistication. But they were, arguably, more accessible — a gateway for casual listeners who might have found the intensity of the Bothy Band overwhelming or the solemnity of the Chieftains too reverent. What makes De Dannan vital is their role as incubators of talent. Their ever-changing line-up — which has included Maura O'Connell, Dolores Keane, Mary Black, Eleanor Shanley, Johnny Moynihan and others — reads like a roll call of Irish folk royalty. If Planxty was a meeting of minds, and the Bothy Band a supergroup, De Dannan was a finishing school. Frankie Gavin's continuing reinventions of the band — with young musicians alongside him on stage now — underline their enduring legacy. De Dannan may never have had the gravitas of the Chieftains or the mythic status of Planxty, but their contribution to Irish music is no less profound. They were — and still are — proof that tradition doesn't just survive change. It thrives on it. See More: De Dannan, Fiddle Music, Fiddlers, Traditional Irish Music
Daily Record
9 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
Frankie Bridge stuns in high street jacket that has fans begging where to buy it
The stylish 36-year-old wowed fans in her latest high street find that is the perfect staple for all year. When it comes to effortless style, not many do it better than Frankie Bridge. To help us recreate her style, the Loose Women presenter runs her own 'Faves' edit on Instagram. Even more appealing, many of the 36-year-old's stylish outfits can be bought straight from the high street. In fact her latest edit had many fans flocking to the comments to ask where they can buy one item in particular. In the most recent instalment of her social media series, Frankie shared a few styles from a few of our favourite fashion retailers, but it was River Island's Brown Faux Leather Funnel Neck Bomber Jacket that piqued the most interest. Pairing the bomber with a pair of light-washed baggy jeans and a graphic vest top, the TV presenter's casual style immediately enraptured devoted fans, as one asked: "Where is the brown jacket from please xx." A second shopper with the same query asked: "Where is your jacket from hun pls?" Brown Faux Leather Funnel Neck Bomber Jacket £52 River Island Buy here Product Description Another fashion fan said: "Obsessed with the brown jacket." Currently "selling fast" at the high street favourite and costing a fairly affordable £52, this bomber jacket is ideal for our unpredictable UK summers and also for the upcoming 'in between' period before we transition to autumn. With Frankie showcasing the brown jacket in her hugely popular fashion series, we expect it to be snapped up soon. In the meantime, it is still available in sizes small to extra large, with only the extra small sold out online. Bomber-style jackets are a versatile wardrobe staple that can be worn in any season and all weathers. Whether paired with slouchy jeans, straight-leg chinos and even a midi dress, they are the perfect extra layer for any outfit when temperatures begin to dip slightly. Before we get into River Island's jacket, it is worth noting that bombers are available in many different styles, with New Look's £29.99 Soft Bomber Jacket boasting a similar style, but with a cosy, brushed fabric. Looking for something a touch lighter weight for the current warm spells? Then Uniqlo's Bomber Jacket has been cut from a glossy fabric, with the price being reduced from £69.90 to just £29.0. Fashion deal of the week New Balance has just launched a massive sale ahead of the summer, with up to half-price off. Hate that break in period with stiff footwear? Then look no further than the Unisex RC42 Shoes, said to be "comfy straight out of the box", that have been reduced from £90 to just £45, saving shoppers 50 percent off the original asking price. Featuring the classic minimalist silhouette that can be worn with everything from denim jeans to leggings, these trainers have been particularly designed for those with an active lifestyle. Crafted from a "lightweight" suede/mesh construction, they boast a low profile that is suitable for those who spend long periods of time on their feet, while the a padded tongue and cushioned rubber sole ensure all day comfort. Finished with the classic signature 'N' branding on the side, the half-price discount covers two colours - granite with white and linen with sea salt. As of writing, sizes range from a four through to nine, including a few half-sizes. Shoppers can't stop praising the New Balance RC42 Shoes, as they have earned a 4.2 rating and glowing reviews for their "comfortable" design that means they "don't even have to break them in." One five-star review read: "Very cute and comfortable right out of the box. On trend and has a somewhat cushioned midsole—perfect for wearing all day." As for Frankie's River Island pick, it looks much more expensive than its £52 price-tag thanks to the faux leather material that gives it a bit of a 'grungy' aesthetic to any outfit. Designed in the classic boxy, shorter length that would pair perfectly with high waisted short, jeans or trousers, it is available in a neutral dark brown colour that will go with any outfit all year long. Finished with the classic high neck, long sleeves, front pockets and a zip and popper fastening, it's a versatile wardrobe staple that can be worn time and time again. It is worth noting that, while the bomber jacket has impressed Frankie and her fans, the River Island website does not offer official reviews, so we have yet to find any negative pieces of feedback. Shoppers who are keen to bag it themselves, then the Brown Faux Leather Funnel Neck Bomber Jacket can be bought for £52 from River Island.
Daily Mirror
14 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Frankie Bridge fans 'obsessed' with £52 jacket 'perfect' for unpredictable weather
The Loose Women panellist shared a round-up of her favourite high street finds this week, including pieces from ASOS, PrettyLittleThing and River Island Frankie Bridge has once again had fashion fans begging to know where to shop her latest outfits. And this time, it's a 'perfect for summer' jacket that will keep shoppers looking chic while protecting them from the unpredictable Great British weather. As part of her weekly Faves series. The Loose Women panellist shared a round up of her favourite high-street finds this week, including pieces from ASOS, PrettyLittleThing and more. But there was one item in particular that her followers couldn't stop complimenting, and were desperate to know where to buy it for themselves. Commenting on the post, which racked up more than 260,000 views, fans wrote: 'Where the brown jacket from please?,' 'Where is your jacket from hun?' and 'obsessed with the brown jacket.' Said brown jacket is from none other than one of Frankie's go-to retailers, River Island. The 36-year-old donned the high-street haunt's Brown Faux Leather Funnel Neck Bomber Jacket, hailing it as 'lightweight' and great for layering. Styling the jacket with some blue wide leg jeans and a graphic vest top, she said: 'This jacket is perfect for over summer as it's lightweight and is perfect to throw on if the weather changes.' Coming in at £52, the faux leather jacket is a fresh take on jackets we've seen go viral in previous years, such as Molly Mae's famous Zara biker jacket. It features long sleeves and an on-trend funnel neck, complete with front pockets and a zip and popper fastening. Originally available in sizes XS to XL, the smallest size appears to have already sold out, proving its popularity. It'll no doubt be the ultimate transitional piece to see wearers into the autumn months, the one downside is that, while it'll protect the body from any potential showers, it's slightly cropped length and lack of a hood will do little to protect wearers from the elements. The River Island number comes in slightly cheaper than ASOS's take on the silhouette. The ASOS DESIGN funnel neck textured leather look bomber jacket in brown costs £58, and while it looks pretty similar, it's available in only four sizes. For a more traditional biker look, the Brown Distressed Look Zip Boxy Trim Detail Biker Jacket from PrettyLittleThing is currently on sale. Originally £60, it's down to £36, coming in a lived-in, distressed brown shade and elevated boxy cut. Frankie's jacket and jeans combo isn't the only outfit that had shoppers swooning this month, either. On Loose Women last week, she sported Mango's Striped Straight Suit Trousers (£45.99) and the matching Buttons Striped Top (£35.99). Sharing a snap on Instagram, fans immediately went wild for it. 'So many sensational outfits, my style icon' wrote one, whilst another said: 'Absolutely love this outfit!' The pinstripe co-ord is the perfect choice for summer, and shoppers can wear it absolutely anywhere from a summer wedding to the office. A simple accessory swap will take it from day to night, and its fitted, tailored silhouette gives it an instantly sophisticated, smart look. But if it's Frankie's River Island jacket people have their eye on for summer layering, the chic item can be purchased here for £52.
Daily Mirror
14 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Frankie Bridge's ‘soft and comfortable' £22 maxi skirt is ‘ideal for when you're out with the kids'
Frankie Bridge has found the perfect outfit for busy mums, with her flowy maxi skirt that's 'ideal for when you're out with the kids' – and it's now on sale down from £35 to £22 With the schools ready to break up for summer (or maybe your little ones are already off) all mums know that you'll be spending a lot more time running around and out and about with them. For days when you want to look put together but still have plenty of comfort and movement, Frankie Bridge has tracked down the perfect wardrobe essential. Sharing it in her Frankie's Faves series on Instagram, the presenter showed off her Crinkle Textured Ruched Waistband Maxi Skirt, which is now on sale for £22.50 down from £35. Frankie added: 'Before I tried this skirt on I was unsure. I thought the thicker waistband was going to be unflattering but once I got it on I changed my mind! It's so soft and lightweight - ideal for when you're out with the kids in the holidays.' As Frankie pointed out, the skirt has a wide waistband which sits on your hips, and although this can seem like it would be unflattering, the ruching details actually help to smooth the area and create curves. The soft fabric has a subtle crinkle design to it, which means you can get away without ever having to iron it – always a bonus in a busy household! The Crinkle Textured Maxi Skirt also has plenty of movement and a breezy feel, which is great for spending afternoons running around in the sunshine without feeling too restricted. As well as being a great go-to outfit for mums on the go, it's also a fantastic outfit for holiday, and can also be easily styled for loads of occasions. You can wear the Crinkle Textured Maxi Skirt with a cropped vest or bandeau top with some sandals and a slicked back bun whilst abroad, or a crisp white shirt and some loafers for a smarter daytime look. An oversized T-shirt and some trainers would also effortlessly make it into an easy mum-on-the-go outfit. Thanks no doubt to Frankie's praise of the skirt (and its discounted price tag) the skirt is currently selling fast, with a couple of sizes already out of stock. Luckily there are other options around, such as this Topshop Shirred Waist Crinkle Full Skirt, which is slightly pricier at £42. We also spotted some similar silhouettes such as Pull & Bear's Panelled Midi Skirt, which is £25.99 and comes in three colours; white, black and brown. You could also snap up Abercrombie & Fitch's Mid Rise Bubble Hem Maxi Skirt if you want something with a little more volume and a more inclusive size range than the other options, which is currently down from £75 to £56.25.
The Sun
14 hours ago
- Entertainment
- The Sun
Ozzy Osbourne dead UPDATES: Sharon and children release heartbreaking statement as Black Sabbath frontman dies aged 76
Motley Crue's personal message about Ozzy Motley Crue bassist Nikki Sixx, pictured with the band and Ozzy below, took to his social media to write: "So many amazing tributes rolling in about Ozzy. What a loss to music all around. But I wanted to share a little something private about how kind and sweet he was. "My daughter Frankie set up a stand to sell duck tape wallets (I know) in and area both Ozzy and I used to live in called Hidden Hills California. "I was standing there with my daughter and all of sudden, I hear Ozzy yelling my name. "He wasn't driving so he jumped out of the car and it was still slowly rolling and came running over to our little stand and asked what was going on. "I told him and he laughed and said 'Well then I'll take them all'. That was Ozzy. "I will forever be grateful he gave our little ratty band from Hollywood our first big break… "Thank you for the music, your kindness and wicked wicked sense of humor. Journey well our friend."
