TwoMacs Podcast Ep 50 Vinny O'Donnell

Vinny O'Donnell - The making of the acclaimed 1986 'Up Tyrone' cassette.

When Kevin McCabe struck a penalty to the net to take Tyrone to their first All Ireland final in 1986, the county rejoiced while musicians Vinny O'Donnell and Joe McCurry quickly penned a song, 'Come on Tyrone', that has become the theme tune of All Ireland appearances.  Literally overnight, they also put together a cassette packed with Tyrone themed songs, that was snapped up by supporters locally and overseas. 
Vinny talks about the making of the cassette and how 36 years later, in 2021, the timeless song was still being played when Joe's son Darren ('Dazzler') was one of the stars of All Ireland final glory. 
He also recalls the great contribution of Coalisland singer/songwriter, the late Dessie Symington, who also hastily wrote the Tribute to Frank McGuigan and sang the Ballad of Iggy Jones (written by Seamus McKeown) for the cassette.
During the podcast it becomes apparent Ronan Mac's hero was McGuigan, known as 'The King', while Vinny had a huge admiration for 'Wee Iggy Jones'.
There are memories and music shared with tributes to our great players, songwriters and musicians. 
Vinny also recalls, with great fondness, balladeer John Mitchell who passed away in 2022, and his song 'My Hearts in Dungannon', also on the cassette, that was played as his remains were borne from St Patrick’s Church after his Requiem Mass. 
A wonderful podcast with Dungannon man Vinny O'Donnell whose love for music, football and his hometown and county has never dimmed. Enjoy this mix of conversation and nostalgic songs.
Clarification: The song titled 'The King' performed on the cassette by Carmel McKenna is a tribute to country singing legend the late Brian Coll.
* The full version of 'Here's to Dennis Taylor' can be heard at the conclusion of Podcast 41 with Pearse Kelly