Ireland

Tributes to Dublin-born singer Sonny Knowles who has died aged 86

Dublin-born singer Sonny Knowles has died at the age of 86. Picture by RTÉ
Dublin-born singer Sonny Knowles has died at the age of 86. Picture by RTÉ Dublin-born singer Sonny Knowles has died at the age of 86. Picture by RTÉ

TRIBUTES have been paid to Dublin-born singer Sonny Knowles, who has died at the age of 86.

The well-known entertainer, who rose to fame during Ireland's cabaret and show band era, passed away at his home yesterday surrounded by his family.

The singer's career spanned six decades during which time he performed as a member of the Johnny Butler Band, Earl Gill's Band, the Pacific Showband and Dermot O'Brien's showband.

He had survived oesophageal cancer twice.

Paying tribute, RTÉ Radio 1's Liveline, presenter Ronan Collins said the singer had "loved the audience, and that showed".

"A very sad day, he was just a superb person," he said.

"It was always a joy to work with Sonny, musicians were his friends on the stage and he made them feel like stars. He was an extraordinary man. He was a master."

Promoter Pat Egan described Sonny Knowles as "such a modest man in so many ways" while Fr Brian D'Arcy said he had lost "a great friend".