Clannad front woman Moya Brennan has said she is heartbroken following the death of her brother Leon, who worked behind the scenes with the Donegal group for 35 years.
I'm heartbroken, my dear brother Leon passed away this morning surrounded by family. I know he touched the lives of many people around the world, and he will be missed so very much ❤ pic.twitter.com/9NrkFO7x6U
— Moya Brennan (@moyaclannad) December 17, 2021
Mr Brennan, who lived in Dublin, looked after Clannad's merchandise, and also worked as the band’s tour and production manager.
In a tweet on Friday evening, Moya Brennan said, "I’m heartbroken, my dear brother Leon passed away this morning surrounded by family. I know he touched the lives of many people around the world, and he will be missed so very much."
The Brennan family pub, Leo’s Tavern in Gweedore, has been closed as a mark of respect.
It is with a deep and terrible sadness that I must announce the death of my beloved brother, Leon.
— Enya (@official_enya) December 17, 2021
Not only was he my brother, but he was my dearest and closest friend. My love for him will remain forever in my heart.
I would ask for privacy at this time.
Enya
Inspired and encouraged by their musical father, Leo, who passed away aged 90 in 2016, four of the Brennan children formed Clannad with their uncles Noel and Pádraig Duggan and went on to achieve worldwide fame with their distinctive brand of Celtic harmony and had a string of hits such as The Theme from Harry’s Game and In A Lifetime with Bono.
The band’s youngest member Enya left the group and went on to pursue a wildly successful solo career, selling an estimated seventy-five million records worldwide beginning with Orinoco Flow in 1988.
Moya Brennan has also had a very successful singing career and has been nominated for two Grammys and also won an Emmy Award as part of the team involved in a two-part US documentary on Irish music.
Tributes have been paid to following news of Leon Brennan's passing.
Leon🕊is a thousand winds that rustle the leaves,,the sunlight on ripened grain,,the gentle autumn rains,,the diamond glints on snow,,,Leon❤🙏is with you Moya,,each new dawn🙏 pic.twitter.com/2ce4P7Xaa4
— Drew Caughren (@Drewcaughren) December 17, 2021
Sincere Condolences Moya and the Brennan Family. I first met Leon in 1979, he was working with Nicky Ryan at Brittas Bay Folk Festival. I was 13, Leon explained the BOSE PA System. An inspirational chat, I never forgot it, nor will I ever forget Leon. Mile Buiochas.
— Dicker Event Tech (@dickersoundbray) December 17, 2021
So sorry to hear this Máire, he was always a gentleman. Deepest condolences to you and all the family.
— Chris O'Brien (@chrisobriens) December 17, 2021
He was such kind person. I had the chance to meet him several times over the years, and he was always ready with a smile! Heartfelt blessings for you and your family.
— ＳＬＥＥＰＴＨＩＥＦ (@sleepthiefmusic) December 17, 2021
Moya, It's Carole Brennan, the wee yank from America. Leon was a beautiful dear soul and I am praying for his soul and for his entire family and for you. 🙏🙏🙏❤️❤️❤️ It is heartbreaking news. Plz keep us posted on his life’s celebration. Sending love and prayers to all family.
— Wolfmother 🇺🇸 (@wolfmother1008) December 17, 2021
Very very sad news. My thoughts and prayers are with you and all the Brennan Family and their extended families. Leon and I had many long phone conversations during my RCA days. May he Rest in Peace. https://t.co/PcJDmneL9p
— Freddie Middleton (@PRMiddleton) December 17, 2021
