The legendary Irish singer Tommy Makem has died of lung cancer at the age of 74

The legendary Irish singer Tommy Makem has died of lung cancer at the age of 74

Tommy Makem, legendary Irish singer, has died of lung cancer at the age of 74, according to the AP via CNN.

Makem was born in Ireland and came to America to work as an actor. He ended up joining the Clancy Brothers and rising to international fame. He sang songs and told stories of Ireland all around the world, with the help of his banjo and tinwhistle.

One of Makem's most famous songs is "Four Green Fields", about a woman whose sons died trying to stop strangers from taking their fields. The song is interpreted by many experts to be a parable, with the "four fields" representing the four provinces of Ireland, Ulster, Munster, Leinster and Connacht, and the woman representing Ireland herself.

From the CNN article, The President of Ireland, Mary McAleese said of Makem after his death, "Always the consummate musician, he was also a superb ambassador for the country, and one of whom we will always be proud."

Also, according to his son Conor, Makem was able to visit Ireland last month. He received an honorary degree and also returned to his hometown in Armagh for one last time.

"He had very much wanted to get over there," said his son Conor. "I think he knew it might have been his last time over."

Slᮠagus beannacht (Goodbye and blessings).