Bluesville – and The Action – with my old friend Peter Adler – also Paul Williams is in that pic – Ian was just in the hottest groups around – a million miles from the showbands who covered most of the market them. He always seemed calm and unruffled during all the teeny-bopping chaos and fun – especially those regular gigs in The Stella, Mount Merrion. There was a tennis club on the Merrion Road headin towards Dublin from Dun Laoghaire – can’t be sure of the name – Lansdown, Bective … sorry … but Bluesville on this particular night, was headed by Ian Whitcombe of ‘You Turn Me On’ fame – a bit hit in the UK and possibly less so the US – I remember Deke O’Brien playing that night too. That was a great night – so many interesting friends from all over. The best gig ever in a tennis club. As I said, Ian played with the best – that’s how highly they thought of him – Rip it up, Ian
I have only ‘discovered’ Ian McGarry today, having seen his name many times in the credits of programmes and Eurovisions. To learn more about this man, I finally searched his name in curiosity, after digesting the credits of the 1997 Eurovision in The Point, where Ian’s name lingers over the final wide shot of Katrina and the Waves. I cannot believe he has only just departed in the past few days.
My sincere condolences to all his family and friends. His music direction style was solid, ‘classical’, and justly favoured the dynamism of a long-sequence jib-arm shot – using the innovation to its fullest potential.
It’s clear from video clips and comments here that he was a supremely talented and much-loved figure, who has left a significant contribution to Irish cultural life.
Oh how sad to hear this. I still remember the day he rang me in the Radio Centre in 1981 & asked me to drop over to his office (in one of those ubiquitous Portakabins, as I recollect) for a chat. ‘You know we have to do the Eurovision Sing Contest’, he said. ‘Would you be interested in presenting it?’ And so it came to pass. A gentleman, always.
Besides the amazing Bluesville Band, my early memories of Ian go back to the many sessions he did with us in Trend Studios in the early seventies. What a rock solid and competent drummer he was. In trying to find the words to describe Ian, I think consummate professional fits well. His talents were wide and varied, but always of such a high professional standard. Not only could he deliver that essential solid driving rhythm in his playing, but he was also technically proficient. His easy manner and approachable personality epitomized the leadership qualities he possessed – he left every relationship better for him having been a part of it. He was one of a kind – there will never be another Ian McGarry, but he has left us with wonderful memories, and his music will live on. Indeed, the world could do well to emulate this man and try to live by the beat of his drum. Fondly remembered, sadly missed.
The passing of Ian this week in July 2023 really got me thinking and reliving great days of fun, laughter and hard work. I never could understand how Ian could remain so calm when there were so much action going on all around, never phased or confused, Ian just got the job done.
I started to think about the Eurovision Song Contest in 1982 with The Duskey’s, representing Ireland with Here Today Gone Tomorrow, maybe not our most successful entry, but Ian managed to make it really special with a Visit to Dublin Zoo to film the prelim video to send out to the Eurovision networks. What a giggle, I look at it and smile. In fact, so many of the shows and commercials we filmed together make me smile. Working with Sandy Kelly on her brilliant TV series, amazing guests and Ian really stretched Sandy’s incredible vocals with the choices of some of the songs we choose together.
I have to mention a great trip to Nashville with Ian, Sandy Kelly and Kieran Cavanagh as part of the recording of The Showman’s Daughter, this trip led to Sandy’s opportunities to record with some of Country Music’s best, including Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson and Glen Campbell, in fact a whole album of great duets. The TV show was a great success, all 26 episodes.
We filmed the videos and TV commercials for Sandy’s “Crazy” and “Sweet Dreams” in Malahide Castle, I learned so much sitting close to Ian and taking it all in. I never got in the way, did I? Just loved being a part of Ian’s creations.
We worked on some more Videos, Ballads, Shawn Conors and any opportunity to create video and television programmes.
We did great video’s for Frank McNamara and David Agnew’s album including TV commercials, same for John Hogan all with Ian in command as Producer/Director, always Ian, I wonder why?
So why not do our own series of TV shows. Celtic Note……….. Dubliners, Horslips, Paddy Reilly, Margo, Jim McCann all presented by Sandy Kelly and John McNicholl.
None of the above would have happened without the encouragement from Ian and his willingness to work with us.
For the experience, the fun, the education, Thanks Ian. For your help when I needed information and research, ask Ian McGarry, he knows……….. especially for friendship.
Can’t remember where the pics came from ( well my camera), date and time not so sure, but Ian and Jane look fabulous.
Jane, Tamsen and Kirsty – you and the family are all in my thoughts at this very sad time. It was an honour to have worked with Ian, on both Telly Bingo and CrimeCall over the years. We’ve missed Ian in Studio 6 and that will continue. He was a gentleman and brilliant to work with. I am continually amazed at the fascinating stories from Jane about Ian and his career and life pursuits – from car racing to his passion for music. Rest in peace. With love, Aisling (Autocue)
There are no words Jane. I cannot fathom your loss. My deepest condolences to you, Tam and Kirsty. He was a genuine legend and was so proud of all his girls. He will never be forgotten and always missed.
All our love ❤️
Damian & Suzanne.
I have so many fond memories of you all and your family have been a huge part of my life, I will never forget the memories of skiing with you all i was lucky to know Ian, he was a fantastic ski instructor and always made me feel welcome when I was in your chalet, he will be greatly missed bit memories will be cherished.
I have passed the news onto my family and we are all reminiscing with each other.
Much love ❤️
Oh Jane, I’m so sorry to hear that Ian has died. He was such a gentle, kind man, with so much more to live for, so very sad.
I’m so pleased you and Tam were with him, and good that Kirsty is also with you now.
Ian was immensely talented, and he achieved so much for you and the girls to be proud of. A lovely man, and a life well lived, for sure.
I don’t think I will be able to come to the service, but will be thinking of you, Tam and Kirsty over the coming days.
I am certain that you will meet again when the time comes, and in the meantime I pray that family, friends and memories will sustain you. God bless Ian, and all of you.
With love, Jenny and the rest of the Shutes xx
