Irish singer and sax player Paddy Cole has died at the age of 85. 

The musician – who celebrated his 85th birthday on December 17 – was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2022. He was receiving hospice care at the time of his death.

Paddy first appeared on stage at the 12 and began his career in the 1960s with the Capitol Showband. 

He was introduced to showbusiness by his father, a postman who supplemented his earnings by playing in dance bands.

The singer, who was from Co. Monaghan, moved to Las Vegas in the early 1970s where he joined The Big Eight Showband, a group of Irish musicians. 

He also owned a restaurant in his hometown of Castleblayney with his wife Helen although he lived in Dublin at the time of his death.

Irish singer and sax player Paddy Cole has died at the age of 85

The musician – who celebrated his 85th birthday on December 17 – was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2022

Paddy previously admitted he ‘never thought’ he would make it to 85 after he was diagnosed with incurable cancer.

Speaking to RSVP, he said: ‘My health is up and down, I have some good days, some bad days, but I’m keeping the best side out as best I can.

‘I keep in touch with the people in the hospice all the time and they keep me on the pain killers and all that sort of stuff, so I’m getting on with it is the only way I can put it.’

His pᴀssing was confirmed by his son Pat in a statement reading: ‘The music world mourns the loss of the legendary Paddy Cole, a beloved entertainer who brought joy to thousands with his vibrant personality and infectious music.

‘From the Capitol Showband to his own Superstars, Paddy Cole’s saxophone, clarinet, and vocals filled dance halls and concert stages with his signature blend of jazz, Dixieland, and showband sounds. 

‘His music transcended generations, creating memories that will forever be cherished.

‘On behalf of his family, we express our deepest graтιтude for the outpouring of love and support during this difficult time. 

‘Paddy’s legacy will live on through the music he created and the joy he shared with the world. Rest in peace, Paddy Cole.’

He was receiving hospice care at the time of his death. Paddy first appeared on stage at the 12 and began his career in the 1960s with the Capitol Showband.

The singer, who was from Co. Monaghan, moved to Las Vegas in the early 1970s where he joined The Big Eight Showband, a group of Irish musicians

The President of Ireland, Michael D. Higgins paid tibute to Paddy, saying: ‘The loss of Paddy Cole is the loss of one of the founding icons of the great period of the Irish showbands.

‘From the Capitol Showband to the great brᴀss sound, what Paddy Cole did for music and for jazz will be remembered across generations.

‘The significance of the showband era is perhaps one of the insufficiently recognised aspects of Irish music history. 

‘There are places that became famous because of the artists they produced. Castleblayney, always known as ‘Blayney’, is one such place for producing Paddy.

‘Paddy Cole’s music was first class, with jazz of international quality, and Sabina and I knew and admired him as a friend.

‘May I send our condolences to Paddy’s wife, Helen, to his children Pat, Pearse and Karen, and to all of his family, fellow musicians and many friends.’