President Michael D Higgins leads tributes to 'iconic figure' Dickie Rock

The well known and loved Irish musician Dickie Rock has sadly passed away, his have family announced. 

The former Miami Showband star died on Friday, December 6, at 88 years of age. 

Leading the tributes to the one of a kind performer is none other than President Michael D Higgins, who said, "A performer of the highest quality, Dickie Rock's popularity, both in the Miami Showband and as a solo artist, was such that he remained a hugely popular entertainer through succeeding generations."

Tánaiste Micheál Martin was "saddened to learn of the passing of Dickie Rock, an iconic performer who charmed and entertained generations."

Taking to X, he continued, "The end of an era stretching from Eurovision and the Miami Showband in the 60s until modern times,

"A gentleman loved by many. My condolences to his family and friends," the Tánaiste concluded. 

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Stephen Travers of the Miami Showband also expressed his sympathies on social media. 

He said, "I am so very sad to hear of the passing of Dickie Rock. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam." 

Rock first rose to fame after finishing fourth at the 1966 Eurovision Song Contest with a song that later became a number one hit in Ireland 'Come Back to Stay', and his career only excelled from there, gaining fans across Ireland and beyond. 

The performer survived by his children Jason, John, Richard, Sarah Jane, and Peter. 

His wife Judy passed away in April 2022 following a battle with COVID-19. 

In the statement confirming his death, Rock's children said, "They are now together again, and that is of some comfort to the family."

Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced in the upcoming days.