BP Fallon has paid tribute to the Noel Bridgeman, the much-loved Irish drummer who passed away earlier this week.
Speaking to RTÉ Entertainment, Beep, who has had a long career as a writer, photographer, and DJ, and who is now a fulltime musician, said, "Noel Bridgeman was an unsung hero of Irish rock 'n’ roll, kicking off drumming with Skid Row and Granny’s Intentions and then, via hundreds of gigs with the good of Irish music before and afterwards, he became the drummer in The Waterboys.
"I’m honoured and blessed that Noel plays on my next album. Noel was an outstanding singer too - his performance of the John Lennon song Across The Universe would bring tears to the eyes and a lump in the throat.
"More importantly, Noel was a beautiful man, loved by all who knew him. Noel, sail on - I send you love and gratitude"
God bless Noel Bridgeman - not only a great drummer but a beautiful man. From Skid Row and Granny's Intentions to Waterboys to playing on my next album... the road goes on forever. Noel, thank you for the joy you brought, thank you for the miles of smiles. I send you love. BP x
— BP Fallon (@bpfallon) March 23, 2021
Beep is among the many fellow musicians and friends who have been mourning Noel’s passing, with Mike Scott of The Waterboys, and Frances Black among those paying tribute.
I'm very sorry to say the drummer Noel Bridgeman, one of Dublin's greatest-ever musicians, and a great Waterboy, passed away this morning after a short battle with cancer. He taught me so much. A pioneer, a gentleman and a great spirit. Travel on well, my friend. #NoelBridgeman pic.twitter.com/pWOJkKS71I
— Mike Scott (@MickPuck) March 23, 2021
Noel "Nollaig" Bridgeman played and recorded with Skid Row, Mary Black, The Waterboys, Van Morrison, Christy Moore, and many others.
He enjoyed a long career after emerging from the Irish blues boom in the 1960s and went on to record and play with Skid Row, before becoming a much in-demand drummer in both studio sessions and in concert.
Noel, who could also sing, also played and recorded with Jackson Browne, Sharon Shannon, Steve Earle, Mick Hanley, Donal Lunny, Paul Brady, The Chieftains and The Corrs.
