Many people often give the Tommy Makem and the Clancy Brothers credit for their contribution to Irish folk music. I always felt it should go an additional step – they helped energize the American folk revival.

Now, at the age of 74, Tommy Makem is battling lung cancer. The Boston Globe ran a story last week (here) that shows the unbeatbable Tommy Makem continuing to tour and sing as he faces the ordeals of late stage lung cancer. Tommy was diagnosed back in May and was a candidate for surgery, until it was discovered that the cancer had spread to other parts of his lung.

Tommy is quoted as saying that he will perform “as long as I have a voice to sing”. And his schedule is full – tours of Novia Scotia and a cruise in 2007. I’ve met Tommy on several occasions, and from what I’ve seen of the man – I am sure he will be at every gig, plus and many more to come. Our thoughts and prayers are with you Tommy, and your spirit is something that we have all benefited from.

Recently, Tommy Makem and the Clancy Brothers were honored in their native Ireland with a postage stamp. Their likeness, as well as the images of the Chieftains, the Dubliners and Altan, appear on stamps in a Irish Music series.

Music is something that changes our lives. For many of us, it becomes a passion. We look to the bards for inspiration, knowledge, and often for companionship. In the hustle and bustle of our lives, we can sometimes forget the individuals who have done so much to make music that we can have for our own. Let’s take a moment to wish Tommy the best as he battles this disease, and let’s look forward to our next opportunity to see this amazing man. Thanks Tommy! You are in our thoughts and prayers.