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Shite n Onions


Jan 12, 2013

This past Thursday the Irish rock and roll family had lost a great brother. Singer, song writer, guitar player and front man of the Mickey Finns passed away suddenly. It saddens us to report news like this as it’s never good feeling to lose a member of this tight knit community of singers, songwriters, artists and fans. Ray Kelly was quick with a smile, always willing to chat and had one of those personalities that would light up a room. Going to a Finns show was always a joy, between the band members there was such a closeness you could tell they all really loved what they were doing and who they were doing it with. The passion in each and every song was always highlighted by that raspy brogue Ray bellowed the lyrics through.

Ray leaves behind an impressive body of work with The Mickey Finns and his previous bands including The Prodigals. It does leave a giant hole in this fans heart though that his signature guitar picking and distinct voice will never again be heard. From loving his live shows to playing Mickey Finns CD’s so much I was afraid I was going to burn a hole through it, I was hooked by the style sound and energy they put into every song.
Although he may have passed, he is still with us in our hearts, prayers and thoughts. Not wanting to mourn I say we should celebrate his life, his work and share it with someone new. I am sure with the hole in our hearts over this loss we can fill it with fond memories of shows and experiences involving Ray. Take the time to go to The Mickey Finns facebook page and share stories of him and leave them some much needed love. He was a great man and artist who touched so many in his life, remember him well, raise a glass to his name, remembering he’s not gone if he’s in our hearts and minds.

Cheers Ray!

Brian Grady

The Mickey Finn - It's Not The Whiskey
The Mickey Finn - The Ballad Of Duffy's Cut
The Mickey Finn - Tanks And Barbed Wire
The Prodigals - One True Cause
The Prodigals - Dreaming In Hell's Kitchen
The Mickey Finn - Devils & Dust
The Prodigals - The Immigrant