Stamps celebrate era when Showband was king

22 September 2010

The set of four 55c stamps feature some of Ireland’s leading groups as representative of the period from the 1950’s to early 70’s when the Irish Showband ruled the domestic music scene. Making an appearance are showband icons The Drifters, The Freshmen, The Miami and The Royal.

During this period, it is estimated that approximately 700 bands were criss-crossing the country on a nightly basis. These showbands enjoyed great success, with many of their songs reaching the Number One spot in the music charts.

Mr Barney Whelan, An Post Director of Communications and Corporate Affairs said: “Irish Stamps speak volumes about the high regard in which their subject is held by this State and by its people.  As these new stamps travel on letters and parcels throughout this island and abroad, they carry with them our pride, respect, fondness and admiration for the Showband era as whole; and for all those individuals and groups who made it so very special.”

Along with the four bands that feature on the stamps, some of the other well known acts included The Clipper Carlton, The Capitol, The Dixies, The Cadets, The Royal Blues, The Mighty Avons and The Howdowners.

The stamps were designed by artist Steve Simpson, based on photography by Michael O’Reilly and Seán Magee. They are available from www.irishstamps.ie  and from all main post offices, together with two first day covers (FDCs) and a prestige booklet which includes four sets of stamps and memories of the showband era by broadcaster and musician Ronan Collins.