A YEAR OF LOST MUSIC GREATS.

COUNTRY music bade farewell to one of its true exponents in 2005.

The death of Johnny Loughrey cast a long shadow over the music scene.

The man from Newtown-stewart in County Tyrone who lived for many years in Manchester enjoyed remarkable success on the circuit during the final decade of his life.

Johnny (59) was one of nature's gentlemen. He grew up in a county steeped in the music tradition.

Country music found a natural home in his heart and people like Shay Hutchinson and Brian Coll were among his earliest influences. Jim Reeves, Marty Robbins and Merle Haggard provided further inspiration from the other side of the Atlantic.

All who knew Johnny Loughrey realised the quality of the man both as a singer and a person. St. John's Church in Chorlton, Manchester was packed to overflowing as friends and followers paid their final tributes. Sadly, his wife Mary, who was also battling a long illness, died eight weeks later.

Two months ago, their son Shaun launched his music career after opting to follow in his dad's footsteps.

The year 2005 also saw the passing of Doc Carroll in Athlone. Doc was the lead singer with the Mayo-based Royal Blues Show-band and had a No. I hit with Old Man Trouble in 1966.

Dan O'Hara, a highly respected guitar player with strong roots in Cavan and Tyrone, also died during the year. He was a member of Phil Be-gley's Band for some years.

The year gone by also saw the passing of Mayo native Shea Cribbin, former lead singer with the Riviera. He had resided in Dublin for many years.

CAPTION(S):

SINGER: Saun Loughrey has followed in his late father's footsteps