Daniel O’Donnell Leads Tributes to Kevin Prendergast, the ‘True Gentleman’ of Irish Country Music
MAYO — The Irish country music community is mourning the loss of Kevin Prendergast, the beloved Mayo-born singer and songwriter, who died peacefully at his home on Monday. He was remembered by colleagues and fans alike as a “true gentleman” whose songs captured the heart and soul of rural Ireland.
Among the first to pay tribute was Daniel O’Donnell, who shared the stage with Prendergast many times throughout their careers. “It is with sadness today that I learned of the passing of Kevin Prendergast,” O’Donnell said in a statement. “Through the years Kevin and I were on many shows together. He was a true gentleman. My sympathy to his family at this sad time. Rest in Peace Kevin.”
Prendergast, who emigrated from Mayo in the 1960s, lived a life that combined hard work with unwavering dedication to music. While employed on construction sites in Manchester, he spent his evenings singing in Irish clubs and pubs, gradually earning recognition for his warm voice and poignant lyrics. Over time, he became one of the most enduring figures in Irish country music.
His songwriting talent left a lasting mark on the genre. Among his best-known works are Blacksod Bay, My Old Home in Mayo, My Cottage by the Sea, and Where the River Shannon Flows — songs that blended nostalgia with storytelling, evoking the landscapes and traditions of the west of Ireland. These pieces remain staples of the Irish country songbook and are cherished by fans both at home and abroad.
Margo O’Donnell, Daniel’s sister and herself a stalwart of Irish country music, also offered heartfelt condolences. “It is with great sadness that I have just heard of the passing of Kevin Prendergast,” she said. “I have had the pleasure of knowing Kevin for a long, long time. My sympathies go out to all his family. He will be sadly missed.”
Singer Stuart Moyles joined in paying respects, recalling Prendergast not only as a performer but as a generous colleague. “I’m saddened to hear of the passing of Kevin Prendergast. Kevin was a talented singer/songwriter and I had the pleasure of sharing the stage with him many times,” Moyles said. “An absolute gentleman who had time for everyone. My sympathy to his family and friends.”
Prendergast’s passing leaves a deep void in the Irish music scene. Known for his humility as much as his artistry, he was widely admired for the way he carried himself both on and off stage. His music often reflected his own life story — one of resilience, emigration, and deep attachment to place and family.
Kevin was predeceased by his parents, John and Ann, and his brothers Sean, Brendan, Tom, Ray, and Gerald. He is survived by his sisters-in-law Marian and Eileen, as well as nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, relatives, and a wide circle of grieving friends and admirers.
Funeral arrangements have been confirmed. His remains will repose at Donnellan’s Funeral Home, Clare Street, Ballyhaunis, on Thursday evening from 5 to 7 p.m. The Funeral Mass will take place at St. Mary’s Church, Logboy, on Friday at midday, followed by burial in Tulrahan Cemetery.
For many in Ireland, Kevin Prendergast was more than just a performer; he was a voice of memory and belonging. His songs, rooted in the landscapes of Mayo and the waterways of the Shannon, provided comfort to emigrants abroad and became a soundtrack for communities across the country.
As tributes continue to pour in, the words most often associated with his name are “gentleman” and “friend.” In an industry often marked by fleeting fame, Kevin Prendergast’s legacy endures in the timeless melodies he left behind and the kindness he showed throughout his life.