John O'Neill (guitarist) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
John Joseph O'Neill
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O'Neill in 2022
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| Background information | |
| Birth name | John Joseph O'Neill |
| Also known as | Sean O'Neill |
| Born | 26 August 1957 Derry, Northern Ireland |
| Genres | |
| Occupation(s) | Musician |
| Instruments | Rhythm guitar |
| Years active | 1976–1994, 1999–present |
| Labels |
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John Joseph O'Neill (born 26 August 1957) is a talented musician from Derry, Northern Ireland. He is best known as the rhythm guitarist and main songwriter for the famous band The Undertones. John helped create many of their popular songs.
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About John O'Neill
John O'Neill was born on 26 August 1957. He grew up loving music. He became a rhythm guitarist, which means he plays the chords and helps keep the beat in a band. He is also a principal songwriter, meaning he writes most of the songs.
Starting The Undertones
In 1975, John O'Neill helped start a band called The Undertones. He formed the band with his younger brother Vincent. They also teamed up with their friends Feargal Sharkey, Michael Bradley, and Billy Doherty. A year later, John's other younger brother, Damian O'Neill, joined the band. Damian became the lead guitarist.
The Undertones became known for their exciting punk rock and new wave sound. These were popular music styles in the late 1970s and early 1980s.
Writing Hit Songs
John O'Neill wrote most of The Undertones' hit songs. He sometimes worked with his brother Damian or Michael Bradley. His songs often became singles, which are songs released on their own.
Some of the famous songs John O'Neill wrote include:
- "Teenage Kicks"
- "Jimmy Jimmy"
- "Here Comes the Summer"
- "You've Got My Number"
He also wrote many popular songs for their albums. These include "When Saturday Comes," "I Gotta Getta," "Girls That Don't Talk," and "You're Welcome."
The Undertones: A New Chapter
The Undertones released four albums and 13 singles. Then, in 1983, the band decided to stop playing together. But fans missed their music! So, in November 1999, The Undertones got back together.
When they reformed, they had a new lead singer. His name is Paul McLoone, and he is also from Derry. Paul is also a radio presenter in Ireland. Since getting back together, the band has released two more albums. They have played many concerts in the UK, Ireland, Europe, and North America.
Other Musical Adventures
After The Undertones first broke up, John O'Neill and his brother Damian started another band. In 1985, they formed a rock group called That Petrol Emotion. This band was also very popular and played music until 1994.
In the 1990s, John O'Neill tried a different style of music. He formed a group called Rare. This was a trip hop group, which is a mix of hip hop and electronic music. He used the stage name Seán Ó'Néill for this project. Rare released one album in 1998 before disbanding.
John O'Neill continues to be an important figure in music. He has helped create many memorable songs and bands.
