A LEGEND IMMORTALIZED: THE UNVEILING OF BIG TOM McBRIDE’S STATUE BRINGS TEARS, MUSIC, AND MEMORIES TO MONAGHAN
Castleblayney, County Monaghan — The streets of Castleblayney came alive this weekend as thousands gathered for a moment long awaited by Irish country music fans — the official unveiling of a statue honoring the late, great Big Tom McBride, affectionately known as “The King of Irish Country.”
Under clear skies and the sound of fiddles and accordions, family, friends, and fans from across Ireland and beyond filled Main Street to pay tribute to the man whose voice became the heartbeat of a nation. The bronze statue, standing proudly near the Iontas Theatre, captures Big Tom in his signature pose — microphone in hand, a gentle smile on his face, as if ready to sing one more song.
The ceremony began with a moving speech from his widow Rose McBride and their children, who thanked the public for keeping Tom’s legacy alive. 💬 “He belonged to all of you,” Rose said softly. “This statue isn’t just for our family — it’s for every person who ever danced, cried, or smiled to one of Tom’s songs.”
Emotions ran high as Daniel O’Donnell took the stage to perform “Back Home to Castleblayney,” bringing tears to the crowd and applause that echoed through the town square. “Tom wasn’t just a singer,” Daniel said. “He was the sound of home — the voice that reminded us who we are.”
Also in attendance were Philomena Begley, Margo O’Donnell, and members of Tom’s original band, The Mainliners, who joined together for an impromptu rendition of “Four Country Roads.” The crowd swayed and sang along, creating a moment that felt both joyful and sacred.
Local officials praised Big Tom not only for his contribution to Irish music but for his humility and compassion. “He never forgot where he came from,” said Monaghan County Council Chairperson Aoife Byrne. “This statue stands as a symbol of pride, not just for Castleblayney, but for every small town in Ireland that believes dreams can come true.”
The unveiling concluded with the crowd joining hands as a recording of “Gentle Mother” — Tom’s timeless classic — played over the speakers. Some wept, others smiled, but all felt the same connection that Big Tom fostered throughout his life — a love of music, people, and place.
Born in 1936, Big Tom rose from humble beginnings in Oram, Co. Monaghan, to become one of Ireland’s most enduring stars. With hits like “Old Log Cabin for Sale” and “The Sunset Years of Life,” his voice carried the heart of rural Ireland to dance halls and living rooms across the country. Even after his passing in 2018, his songs remain fixtures at gatherings, weddings, and radio airwaves.
As the sun set over Castleblayney, the statue glowed in the evening light — a permanent reminder of a man whose spirit continues to sing through the hearts of his fans.
💬 “He may be gone,” Margo O’Donnell said, “but when the music plays, Big Tom is right here with us.”
Big Tom McBride (1936–2018): Forever the King of Irish Country, now standing tall where his journey began — home in Castleblayney.