biographical
The Jolly Beggarmen were formed in approx 1976 and lasted more than 15 years. The main members were Joe White, Tommy Jenkinson, Jonny Carrol, Paddy Quigley, Eamonn O'Rourke Snr. Also from time to time there was Kevin Molloy, Donal Nagle and a couple more that I don't remember. They recorded On the Dole and The Inner City Song which reached the top ten in Ireland. They also travelled extensively around europe and the UK.
In Memory
Eamonn O'Rourke
Eamonn passed away in July 2003. Eamonn had been a familiar face on the Dublin ballad scene for many years. In addition to his time with the Jolly Beggarmen, he also played with Moonshine and (his last) 2 years with Patsy Watchcorn. He had spent time in Canada and his brother, Dennis, was a member of the Barleycorn. Eamonn died of cancer and was only in his 50s.
Tommy Jenkinson
Tommy passed away in March 2008 in Dublin. Tommy was a mainstay in the Jolly Beggarmen, and to my knowledge, a member through the entire lfespan of the group. For the past seven years, Tommy worked as a Technician at NCAD. More information can also be found here.
I have read that Charlie Clarke passed away, but have no further information.
discography
20 Great Irish Drinking Songs Volume One 1981 - Dolphin DOLM 5027 LP |
20 Great Irish Drinking Songs Volume Two 1981 - Dolphin DOLM 5028 LP |
The Very Best Of Irish Rebel Songs 1988 - Fiesta FCD 1012 CD |
20 or More Irish Ballads 1989 - Dolphin DOCS 20 20 CASS |
40 Irish Drinking Songs 2002 - Dolphin DOLDCD 204 CD |