Kevin Keegan (musician) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Kevin Keegan
|
|
|---|---|
| Born | 1924 Ballinasloe, County Galway, Ireland |
| Died | December 20, 1978 (aged 53–54) San Francisco, California |
| Genres | Traditional Irish |
| Instruments | Accordion |
| Years active | 1940s–1978 |
| Associated acts | Joe Cooley, Kenny Hall, The Aughrim Slopes Céilí Band |
Kevin Keegan (born 1924, died 1978) was a famous Irish musician. He was especially known for playing traditional accordion music. His music helped share Irish culture with many people, especially in the United States.
Contents
Who Was Kevin Keegan?
Kevin Keegan was an important figure in Irish traditional music. He played the accordion with great skill and passion. His performances brought joy to many listeners. He also inspired other musicians to learn and play traditional Irish tunes.
Early Life and Music
Kevin Keegan was born in 1924 in a town called Ballinasloe. This town is located in County Galway, Ireland. From a young age, he developed a love for music. He became very good at playing the accordion. This instrument is key to many traditional Irish songs.
Musical Journey in America
In 1956, Kevin Keegan traveled to the United States. He was touring with a group called The Aughrim Slopes Céilí Band. A céilí band plays music for traditional Irish dances. After the tour, Kevin decided to stay in America. He first moved to Chicago. Later, in 1970, he moved to San Francisco, California.
Sharing Irish Music
In San Francisco, Kevin Keegan met up with his good friend, Joe Cooley. Joe was also a talented accordion player. Together, they became very important to the traditional Irish music scene in America. They taught and influenced many American musicians. These musicians were eager to learn about Irish culture and its unique sounds. Kevin also played music with a mandolin player named Kenny Hall. They performed at Kenny's Sweets Mill Music Camp in Fresno.
Lasting Legacy
Kevin Keegan passed away in San Francisco in 1978. His body was brought back to County Galway in Ireland for burial. Even after his death, his influence lived on. A special branch of Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann in San Francisco is named after him and Joe Cooley. Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann is a big organization that promotes Irish traditional music and culture around the world. This shows how much Kevin Keegan contributed to keeping Irish music alive and well.
