For over 60 years, John O’Neill from the Moss Road in Donaghmore has been the beating heart of traditional music in Co Tyrone and beyond. He played in the Frank Donnelly Céilí Band, and most famously, he was a founding member of the Old Cross Céilí Band, which later became The Country Flavour.

 

John was ahead of his time and to the forefront of the transition from céilí music to the burgeoning country music scene and travelled the world with this music.

 

A generous, kind, funny man, John has always been at home playing the sessions and for the last number of years, he has returned to his roots, and hosted the very popular Wednesday night session in Quinn’s Corner, along with good friends, old and new.

 

All these years later, this CD showcases John’s masterful playing, and his personality. Undoubtedly, his greatest legacy is the gift of music that he has bestowed on generations of his family as well as numerous players in the East Tyrone locality. It is beautiful to hear his daughters and grand daughters perform with him on this collection.

 

Lynette Fay Presenter Folk Club BBC Radio Ulster