Liam Reilly facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Liam Reilly
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| Birth name | Liam O'Reilly |
| Born | 29 January 1955 Dundalk, Ireland |
| Died | 1 January 2021 (aged 65) |
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| Years active | 1978–2020 |
| Associated acts | Bagatelle |
Liam Reilly (born 29 January 1955 – died 1 January 2021) was an Irish singer and songwriter. He was also a member of the popular music group Bagatelle.
About Liam Reilly
Liam Reilly was born in Dundalk, Ireland. He became known for his talent as a singer and for writing many songs. He was a key part of the band Bagatelle. This group started in 1978. Its first members were drummer Walter (Wally) McConville, bass player Ken Doyle, and guitarist John O’Brien.
His Music Journey
In 1980, while Bagatelle was making their first album, Liam Reilly got a special offer. Gus Dudgeon, a famous music producer, wanted Liam to start a solo career. Gus Dudgeon had worked with big stars like Elton John. But Liam chose to stay with his bandmates. He felt loyal to them because they had supported him.
Later, in the mid-1980s, Liam did leave the group. He moved to Savannah, Georgia in the United States. There, he began his solo music career. He recorded an album called Savannah Souvenir. This album showed off Liam's skills on keyboards and his singing. Phil Hadaway produced the album.
Eurovision Song Contest
Liam Reilly was also famous for his involvement in the Eurovision Song Contest. This is a huge international music competition. In 1988, he was a finalist in the Irish selection for Eurovision. His song was called "Lifeline".
He tried again in 1990 with his song "Somewhere in Europe". This time, he came in second place in the Irish competition. He then performed "Somewhere in Europe" at the main Eurovision Song Contest 1990 in Zagreb. He finished tied for second place out of 22 countries.
Liam Reilly returned to Eurovision in 1991, but as a songwriter. He wrote the song "Could It Be That I'm in Love". Singer Kim Jackson performed it in Rome. The song finished in tenth place.
In 1990, Liam Reilly also worked on another album. He co-produced "Throwing Caution to the Wind" with Phil Hadaway. They recorded it in Dublin, Ireland, and Savannah, Georgia. Liam wrote most of the songs on this album.
His Passing
Liam Reilly passed away on 1 January 2021. He was 65 years old. His family shared that he died "suddenly but peacefully" at his home.
