…a short history
The Barleycorn was formed in 1971, in the North of Ireland and reined formany years as the top rebel ballad group. The Barleycorn were far from a one-note rebel band, as the group recorded a wide range of ballads and tunes, many reaching the top of the Irish charts. The original group consisted of Paddy McGuigan, Liam Tiernan, Brian McCormick and John Delaney. Over the years the band saw many changes in its line-up, including stints featuring Paddy Sweeney and the late, great Derek McCormack, with John Delaney as anchor throughout the group's entire life span. In 1995, John decided to call it quits as "The Barleycorn" and teamed up with Alec DeGabriele to form the “New Barleycorn”.
Barleycorn members
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| John Delaney 1971-1995 |
Brian McCormick 1971-1987 |
Liam Tiernan 1971-1981 |
Paddy McGuigan 1971-1975 |
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| Paul Anderson 1975-1981 |
Paddy Sweeney 1981-1988 |
Derek McCormack 1987-1995 |
Dennis O'Rourke 1987-1990 |
Maurice McCarthy 1990-1995 |
…the above dates (as a member of the group) are based on recordings—let me know if you have more accurate information.
The Barleycorn on You Tube
Candlelight and Wine Derek McCormick, John Delaney & Dennis O'Rourke |
My Last Farewell Derek McCormick, John Delaney & Dennis O'Rourke |