Philomena Begley facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Philomena Begley
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Begley in 2005
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| Background information | |
| Born | 20 October 1942 Pomeroy, County Tyrone, Northern Ireland |
| Genres | Country, gospel country pop |
| Occupation(s) | Singer |
| Instruments | Vocals |
| Years active | 1963–present |
| Labels | Dolphin Records, Top Spin, Release, Ritz, Prism Leisure, H&H |
| Associated acts | Old Cross Céilí Band Country Flavour Ramblin Men Shotgun Ray Lynam |
Philomena Begley, born on October 20, 1942, is a famous country music singer from Northern Ireland. She is often called 'The Queen of Country' because of her long and successful career. In 1975, she had a big hit song called "Blanket on the Ground." Her version sold even more copies in Ireland than the original by Billie Jo Spears! In 2020, Philomena made history. She became the first woman to join the ICMA Hall of Fame.
Contents
Early Life and Beginnings
Philomena Begley grew up in a place called Pomeroy, County Tyrone, in Northern Ireland. Before she became a singer, she worked in a hat factory in Cookstown. Her journey into music started with a fun dare. She sang with a group called the Old Cross Céilí Band. She enjoyed it so much that she decided to stay with them!
A Star's Journey in Music
From Local Bands to Chart Hits
The Old Cross Céilí Band soon changed its name to the Old Cross Bandshow. They released a few songs in Ireland in 1968 and 1969. However, these songs did not become popular on the music charts. In September 1970, the band changed its name again to The Country Flavour.
Philomena's first song with this new band was a big success. It was called "Here Today, Gone Tomorrow." This song reached number seven on the Irish music chart. In 1974, Philomena started her own band called the Ramblin' Men. The Country Flavour band continued to perform with other singers.
Singing with Ray Lynam
Starting in 1975, Philomena often toured and sang with another artist, Ray Lynam. They recorded many songs together. One of their most popular duets was "My Elusive Dreams." This song was even mentioned in a song by The Pogues called "A Pair of Brown Eyes."
The "Blanket on the Ground" Success
In 1975, Philomena had a huge hit with her version of "Blanket on the Ground." This song reached number five on the Irish chart. The original song was by Billie Jo Spears, who also released her version in Ireland at the same time. But Philomena's song sold more copies in Ireland. Billie Jo Spears' version only reached number 11. Philomena sometimes performed with Billie Jo Spears. After Billie Jo passed away in 2011, Philomena recorded a song to honor her.
Touring the World
By 1977, Philomena was touring all over the United States. In 1978, a famous country singer named Porter Wagoner invited her to sing at the Grand Ole Opry. This is a very famous country music show in Nashville, USA. Since then, she has visited Nashville every year. She has also been a special guest at the St. Patrick's Day parade in New York City. Philomena has sung at both the Grand Ole Opry and Carnegie Hall, which are very important music venues.
Special Recognition
One of Philomena Begley's biggest fans is the Irish singer Daniel O'Donnell. He once said something very special about her. He mentioned that when Philomena sings, you truly believe her. He felt that she had experienced every feeling she expressed in her songs.
Philomena's Family Life
Philomena Begley is married to Tom Quinn. They have three children named Mary, Aiden, and Carol. She is also a proud grandmother. They live on a farm in Galbally, County Tyrone. Her son, Aiden Quinn, has also become a singer. Philomena's niece, Andrea Begley, won a TV show called The Voice in June 2013. Philomena also writes for the Lifestyle section of the Belfast Telegraph newspaper.
Images for kids
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Begley in 2005
