Born on the third of February 1927 in Waterford Ireland, Michael Valentine Doonican, better known as Val Doonican, became a much loved “Crooner” and singer of traditional pop, novelty and easy listening songs, especially in the United Kingdom. In the 1960’s he not only had five consecutive Top ten albums but several hit singles in the UK charts. He moved to England in 1951 and joined the group “The Four Ramblers” who featured on the “Riders of the Range” a radio serial.
On the 31st of May 1964, Val Doonican appeared on “Sunday Night at the Palladium” and as a result of his amazing reviews he was offered a regular slot on the television called “Singalong Saturday” and then another called “Date with Doonican” that started on the 22nd of February 1965. His casual appearance of wearing irish mens sweaters purchased from a company like https://www.shamrockgift.com/aran-sweaters/mens-aran-sweaters/ while sitting in an old rocking chair, singing was his trademark look.
Val was the youngest of eight children born to his parents Agnes and John who were both musically inclined and encouraged Val to join his school band at the age of six. Unfortunately, his father passed away in 1941 while Val was attending the De La Salle College Waterford and lack of finances meant he had to leave the prestigious college to earn money working in factories. To make extra money Val began singing in his hometown and soon featured on Irish radio.