- Music
- 21 Jul 23
“This song is iconic to many people across the whole world and we really hope you enjoy our take on this classic song. For it to be our last recording with Christy makes it even more special- Aslan's Billy McGuinness
Irish rock heroes Aslan have shared their final ever recording to feature the late Christy Dignam.
The band’s cover of ‘The Fields of Athentry’ was recorded before Dignam’s health started take a turn for the worse.
Christy Dignam died on June 13, ten years after being first diagnosed with a rare condition known as amyloidosis. In January earlier this year, Dignam and his family issued a statement revealing that he had been "cared for lovingly by family, with the support of a palliative care team" since December.
The track, produced by Aslan guitarist and vocalist Joe Jewell and Stuart Gray, was released to honour the legendary artist and latest Hot Press cover star.
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The band were approached by Dolphin Records’ Paul O’Reilly to record the Irish ballad in their own distinct style.
Aslan’s Billy McGuinness said the band didn’t foresee the recording being their last with Dignam.
"Little did we know when we were in the studio, recording an Aslan version of the Fields of Athenry, that it would be our final time recording with Christy," he said. "As we all know Christy loved the ballads and he has sung some brilliant versions of them throughout our years together.”
“This song is iconic to many people across the whole world and we really hope you enjoy our take on this classic song,” added McGuinness. "For it to be our last recording with Christy makes it even more special.”
One of Ireland’s most beloved signers, Christy Dignam’s voice reached multiple generations of Irish people and millions across the globe.
Read a previously unpublished interview with Christy Dignam here.
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Listen to Aslan's rendition of 'The Fields of Athenry below'.