Sad loss of a friend
Barry Finn singing on board the Pride of Baltimore in 2007, with Tom Hall watching the crew.
I got back into town today and learned of some terrible news…our friend Barry Finn unexpectedly passed away this weekend. For those of you who didn’t know Barry, he was a fine singer who had a tremendous collection of songs. Sea shanties, Irish songs, prison work songs, cowboy ballads…he knew more than I’ll ever hope to forget.
More importantly, he was a wonderful man with a kind soul who always encouraged those coming up in the tradition. Plus, he had a very quick wit that he would employ with the widest of grins.
Barry was a regular at The Press Room sessions on Fridays in Portsmouth, where his booming voice could be heard clear onto Daniel Street, and a featured performer at the Portsmouth Maritime Folk Festival. He introduced me to many songs and reminded me of many that I’d heard in my youth. I still can’t believe he won’t be there.
Farwell, Barry. We’ll see you someday on Fiddler’s Green.
Pete you’ll be proud to know that your wonderful picture of Barry was used for his prayer card at his wake today!
He might not be there in body but Barry will be with us at the Press Room always!!
I, too was shocked & devastated to learn that Barry, who we thought had “made it through” the earlier heart attack & was on the road to recovery, had succumbed to a second one. So right, he was a wonderful voice, wit & spirit. I was privileged to kind of ‘know’ him via Mudcat & to get to meet him & record these videos last year.
Salonika – Barry & Mick at FSGW Getaway 2008
Barry Finn – original song, “Guantanamo Bay,” at FSGW Getaway 2008
Barry Finn & MIck Lane – “Woolloomooloo Lair” at FSGW Getaway 2008
Genie
Barry was the funniest, kindest, wickedest soul I ever knew. His heart was as big as his voice. He will be missed greatly.
Sing on down to Cuba…