Obituary: Spencer Davis

Acclaimed for his work at the helm of his fourpiece band, The Spencer Davis Group, the music Spencer Davis released was characterised by its 60’s stomping, drumming patterns and compelling bass lines. The emergence of what would become blue-eyed soul was particularly can be credited to Davis as the man who helped bring black culture to a British audience. Peter Donnelly pays tribute to him and his influence.

A Legacy of Honour: The Gown’s Reflection on John Hume’s passing, Issue 1

The Gown’s exclusive two-part feature on the life of John Hume, who died earlier in August, aged 83. His steadfastness in pursuing a peaceful settlement to Northern Ireland and the perpetual ills of the ‘Irish question’ changed the country’s political and social landscape for future generations.

15 Years Since Luther Vandross’ Passing

Peter Donnelly, Opinions Editor and Niall McElroy, Contributor. Luther Vandross was raised in the years when the Motown movement was simply a burgeoning sound of sophisticated, intriguing four-beat drum patterns. Enlightened and inspired by that experience of hearing Diana Ross & The Supremes, The Four Tops and The Temptations on the radio and around the

Obituary: Soul Legend Bill Withers Dies

Peter Donnelly, Opinions Editor. News of soul great Bill Withers’ death broke on Thursday 3rd April, after he passed away in California at the age of 81 following heart complications. Coming to the soul music scene in his thirties, Bill Withers would take his songwriting inspiration from his own experiences. This inspiration came primarily from

Obituary: Barney Eastwood – The Man Who Could “Make or Break” Boxers

Peter Donnelly, Opinions Editor. For many boxing enthusiasts across Ireland, the news of the death of legendary boxing promoter and businessman Barney Eastwood will be met with a great sense of sadness. Often cited as the Irishman who could “make or break” boxers, he put Northern Ireland on the international boxing map with his intricate