Oasis Drummer Tony McCarroll to Be Honored with Commemorative Plaque in Kinnitty

Original Oasis drummer Anthony McCarroll is set to be honored with a commemorative plaque unveiling this weekend in Kinnitty, Co. Offaly. The event is scheduled for Saturday, 31 August, at Kinnitty Parish Hall, where McCarroll had his first pre-Oasis public performance in the early 1980s.

This unveiling coincides with the 30th anniversary of Oasis’ debut album, Definitely Maybe, which is being re-released on Friday 30th August. Tony McCarroll played drums on the album, which has sold over 8 million copies worldwide and includes the singles ‘Whatever’ and ‘Some Might Say.’

McCarroll has familial ties to County Offaly, as his mother, Bridie (O’Donnell) McCarroll, hails from Kinnitty, where he also lived during his childhood. He attended Kinnitty National School for two years in the 1980s.

In discussing the significance of the event, McCarroll stated, “It’s a huge privilege for me, my family and Oasis to be honoured in this way. I’m really looking forward to the event.”

John McFadden, a lifelong friend of McCarroll and co-organizer of the event, mentioned that the idea of honoring McCarroll came about in 2019. “Tony certainly influenced me to get involved in the music industry,” he remarked, reminiscing about attending McCarroll’s early performances.

Cllr John Clendennen, also a co-organizer, expressed appreciation for the community’s support in recognizing McCarroll’s contributions to music, particularly concerning the iconic album Definitely Maybe.

The schedule for the event includes an “In Conversation” segment with McCarroll, a Q&A session, and a subsequent meet-and-greet session. The event will culminate in a night of Oasis music at Giltraps Pub in Kinnitty.

Attendance for the plaque unveiling is free, while tickets for the “In Conversation” and meet-and-greet will cost €20. Proceeds are set to support Kinnitty Parish Hall and Kinnitty Community Centre.