Obit: singer/musician Lionel McClelland (Sep 2010)

Subject: Lionel McClelland RIP
From: Susiek
Date: 06 Sep 10 - 08:22 PM

Devastated to hear that Lionel died, at home, yesterday afternoon. Amazing singer, musician, poet, composer, person and friend. You'll be missed Lionel. All thoughts with your family. RIP pal XX

Subject: RE: Lionel McClelland RIP
From: GUEST,JEAN MCMONIES
Date: 07 Sep 10 - 03:38 AM

Lionel McClellend..I first knew lionel as a member of the up and coming band Black Eyed Biddy in the late Eight'ys ..early nineties,Even then he was passionate about Scottish Folk Music..A consummate writer of great songs..Brilliant musician...warm hearted man ..I feel honoured to have called him ..My friend..My thoughts are with his wife Jane and all the McClelland Family.... Jeanxxx.

Subject: RE: Obit: singer/musician Lionel McClelland (Sep 2010)
From: GUEST,Neil Paterson
Date: 07 Sep 10 - 05:00 AM

Lionel...I was at Dumfries Academy with Lionel, and we have remained friends ever since. He was one of the only true anarchists I knew, a passionate, gentle and wonderful bloke, someone with whom you could share a good old blether and come away feeling a million times better. We shared a love of art, music of all kinds, drinking beer, castigating
politicians (especially tories) and the establishment in general. You will be terribly missed my friend - my thoughts are with Jane and all of his family. Rest in peace you wonderful man.

Neilxxx

Subject: RE: Obit: singer/musician Lionel McClelland (Sep 2010)
From: GUEST,Dave & Sandra
Date: 07 Sep 10 - 07:14 AM

We are in shock!
Lay awake last night remembering..... Lionel the happy, Lionel the pensive, Lionel the sad ........
Meeting Biddy when Nick still played fiddle and putting the world to rights with political Lionel, with serious face, in the middle of the night while Nick kept interrupting with his latest attempt at the 'Hanged mans Reel'...... The tour in the old VW, Fort William and the Sunday morning alternator change and Lionel in worried mode, the fishing fleet in Mallaig and Lionel the performer..... The indignant Lionel when after a long night of doubles and a very fuddled brain I called him Nigel!!![I confused him with another old friend 'Nigel the Leather']..... and Lionel the genius, with just a guitar , his own voice, no audience and a preview of 'The Earl of March's Daughter' which was to be recorded that week.
Better times, good memories!

Subject: RE: Obit: singer/musician Lionel McClelland (Sep 2010)
From: GUEST,James Wheat
Date: 07 Sep 10 - 07:42 AM

A true gent and friend of 25 years.We are all in shock at Craigieburn and we hope to support Jane and Fraser as best we can. We will miss you so much Lionel. JW

Subject: RE: Obit: singer/musician Lionel McClelland (Sep 2010)
From: GUEST,Billy Henderson
Date: 07 Sep 10 - 08:31 AM

I always thought he'd go in a car crash, learning a new tin-whistle tune, while driving with his elbows.
Fond memories; Hail Ragnar

Subject: RE: Obit: singer/musician Lionel McClelland (Sep 2010)
From: Diva
Date: 07 Sep 10 - 08:36 AM

Lionel was A one off......a sair miss. Condolences to his family

Kathy Hobkirk

Subject: RE: Obit: singer/musician Lionel McClelland (Sep 2010)
From: GUEST,johnty
Date: 07 Sep 10 - 09:33 AM

didn't know Lionel so well but honoured to have dep'd a couple of times in a band with him. Like everyone says, a lovely man, so talented a musican and altogether great crack. Requiescat in pace

Subject: RE: Obit: singer/musician Lionel McClelland (Sep 2010)
From: GUEST,Ian and Marilyn
Date: 07 Sep 10 - 10:23 AM

Honoured to have known Lionel for so many years, lovely guy and these songs of his - wow! We'll keep singing them while he enjoys the great ceilidh in the sky.

Subject: RE: Obit: singer/musician Lionel McClelland (Sep 2010)
From: KirstenE
Date: 07 Sep 10 - 10:43 AM

He was my friend, and fellow band member. I saw him only last week. We all came back to my house after the last gig of the 'Scotland's People" run, and he was his usual big hearted self.
Got upset when I found his gig clothes that I'd only just washed, on my chair.
We were booked into the studio at the end of the month to work on our new album. Lionel was so excited about the new band, and we were all enjoying playing together. I just can't believe he's gone.

Lionel was one of Scotland's great characters and greatest ever reciters of Scot's verse, as well as being a singer songwriter. He was due to perform "Tam O Shanter" at The Howff Club, at the Globe Inn, Dumfries, this Hallowe'en. Sadly they'll not get to hear him do this. I never got tired of hearing Lionel's "Tam", and those of us who saw him do this, were truly blessed to have seen something so unique and special.
Fortunately, we made a couple of videos of Lionel doing this, earlier this year.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mm1AYUXyQBU

His own "Craw" was also amazing
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nQNSndjshRU

"His uncomb'd hoary locks, wild-staring, thatched
A head for thought profound and clear unmatch'd;
Yet tho' his caustic wit was biting rude,
His heart was warm, benevolent and good."
Robert Burns
From: 'The Poet's Progress' 1788

Some great photos of Lionel, most of them taken by his friend, Steve Niblock.
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=23733&id=1777171401&ref=mf

Subject: RE: Obit: singer/musician Lionel McClelland (Sep 2010)
From: GUEST,julia L
Date: 07 Sep 10 - 10:56 AM

What a loss! We so enjoyed working with him on the Sang o' the Solway project. His recitation of his poem "Jim Laurie" about the life of a quarryman was brilliant. And "Sawney Bean" !! What piece of work! Loved his renditions of Burns as well - so genuine.
Damn
Another good man down
RIP Lionel
Julia & Fred

PS P
The "Poet's Progress" quote is a perfect portrait of him. Thanks for that

Subject: RE: Obit: singer/musician Lionel McClelland (Sep 2010)
From: GUEST,John & Annette - Denmark
Date: 07 Sep 10 - 12:44 PM

We are so so so sad to know that Lionel is no longer among us. We had the joy of becomming friends during the many tours in Denmark during the 90's - A lovely time! We'll look back to all these wonderfull gigs you and Chris did in Denmark and all the funny nights we spend while you were staying our place. R.I.P. Lionel - we'll miss you.

Love - See you whereever you are.

Subject: RE: Obit: singer/musician Lionel McClelland (Sep 2010)
From: GUEST,Judith Gibson
Date: 07 Sep 10 - 01:53 PM

So shocked & saddened to hear the sad news today. Have been reminiscing about the many happy memories (spanning 30 years). An extremely talented, larger than life true character who will be greatly missed by so many. We saw him only 2 weeks ago at the Kilquhanity 70th Anniversary weekend in his usual great form, wonderful charisma, warmth, amazing grin & massive bear hugs! RIP x

Subject: RE: Obit: singer/musician Lionel McClelland (Sep 2010)
From: GUEST,Sheena Wellington
Date: 07 Sep 10 - 01:55 PM

Shocked and saddened by this terrible news. Can't believe I'll never see this lovely warm, talented, inspirational man again. Rst in peace, Lionel and love and sympathy to Jane and Fraser.

Subject: RE: Obit: singer/musician Lionel McClelland (Sep 2010)
From: GUEST,Aileen Stewart
Date: 07 Sep 10 - 03:40 PM

I knew Lionel back in the Black Eyed Biddy days and though I hadn't seen him in a number of years I was sorry to read of his passing. Ironically, I've been re-learning "The Earl o' March's Daughter" recently, a beautiful song written by a very talented songwriter.

RIP Lionel

Subject: RE: Obit: singer/musician Lionel McClelland (Sep 2010)
From: GUEST
Date: 07 Sep 10 - 04:45 PM

I knew Lionel for more than 40 years - he and I were 2/3rds of Eyrie - Beattock/Moffats only progressive heavy rock band when the band split Lionel wanted me to buy a bodran. Luckily for BlackeyedBiddy Kris took up the wee drum.I'd often thought of an Eyrie reunion in Beattock hall but sadly the windows will remain safe.Lionel Kris and Billy played at Helen and my wedding in1988 what a great night that was.Lionel also played the big and wee pipes at my 50th sadly that was the last time I saw him the world will be a dull place without you big man - I'll never forget you.

Subject: RE: Obit: singer/musician Lionel McClelland (Sep 2010)
From: GUEST,Davy Holt
Date: 08 Sep 10 - 03:55 AM

Lionel was always a helping hand to me when I first picked up the guitar at 7 years old. Still perform his songs regularly, Earl o' Marches Daughter & Right to be Free especially. Great times I remember as a kid with Loinel & Black Eyed Biddy at Salen, Newtonmore & in my native Dumfriesshire. A sad loss.

Subject: RE: Obit: singer/musician Lionel McClelland (Sep 2010)
From: KirstenE
Date: 09 Sep 10 - 08:00 AM

For those of you who want to share your memories of Lionel with us on facebook http://www.facebook.com/pages/RIP-Lionel-McClelland/145579198814517?ref=mf

Subject: RE: Obit: singer/musician Lionel McClelland (Sep 2010)
From: KirstenE
Date: 09 Sep 10 - 08:02 AM

Subject: RE: Obit: singer/musician Lionel McClelland (Sep 2010)
From: GUEST,David H
Date: 09 Sep 10 - 09:44 AM

Lionel was Lionel, One of the most genuine men I have ever known.
Often down but never out.I am so glad that he had so many good
friends that have taken the time to put pain to pen.I feel so sad
that he has gone.

Subject: RE: Obit: singer/musician Lionel McClelland (Sep 2010)
From: maeve
Date: 09 Sep 10 - 09:59 AM

It was his "Sawney Bean" that first caught my attention when Blackeyed Biddy performed at (I think) the Stonehaven Folk Festival. Lionel was warm and helpful when I asked for the story behind the song. My precious art student funds were diminished when I bought a cassette, yet my musical and personal wealth were increased beyond measure. Thank you, Lionel. My condolences to family and friends.

Maeve, in Maine

PS If someone could send me a PM (Private Message) as to how I can buy a replacement of "High Spirits" (with The Ballad of Sawney Bean), Dunkeld CD 14, 1994, I'd be most grateful. Mine went in the fire.

Subject: RE: Obit: singer/musician Lionel McClelland (Sep 2010)
From: GUEST
Date: 09 Sep 10 - 11:31 AM

There are a couple of copies of that CD available from www.livingtradition.co.uk . Hope that is of help.

Very sad to hear about Lionel - he will be sorely missed in a folk scene that very much needs characters like him. Thoughts go out to those close to him.

Subject: RE: Obit: singer/musician Lionel McClelland (Sep 2010)
From: maeve
Date: 09 Sep 10 - 11:36 AM

Thank you, Guest.

Subject: RE: Obit: singer/musician Lionel McClelland (Sep 2010)
From: GUEST,Maggie & Patrick Dornie The Cafe
Date: 09 Sep 10 - 04:13 PM

A privilege to listen and embrace this Moffat Bard. Nothing more to say...... Our sympathies go to Jane and Fraser, and to all Lionel's family.

Subject: RE: Obit: singer/musician Lionel McClelland (Sep 2010)
From: GUEST,Andrew Robertson
Date: 09 Sep 10 - 08:44 PM

Oh Lionel. Excruciating guitar in my brother's bedroom until Pa came downstairs in his pyjamas and pointed you to the door. Shooting arrows straight up in the playing field, losing sight of them until they 'thunked deep in the turf inches from us. Dating my sister, she still smiles wickedly, did you? Oh Lionel.

Subject: RE: Obit: singer/musician Lionel McClelland (Sep 2010)
From: KirstenE
Date: 10 Sep 10 - 06:26 AM

A Tribute from Dr Fred Freeman

"deeply saddened at the news of Lionel's death. The man was, in all respects, an absolute gentleman and a rare talent - really, what we need more of in the present day. His voice, as with some of his contemporaries (like the Ian Walkers of this world), was the voice of social reform and cultural regeneration : rediscovering and reshaping the heritage of Burns and our immortal songsters . Groups like 'Black-Eyed Biddy', of which Lionel was the keystone, had both great flare and purpose behind everything they did.

It was a privilege to work with the man on the Burns series and to get know him round the festivals from the early days of the group. My children will never forget his kindly manner at the Lossiemouth Festival, so many years ago, when he sat them, one by one, on his knee and introduced them to his instruments. A fine man; a sensitive man; a great creative spark in our midst.

Please convey our deepest sympathy to all"

Subject: RE: Obit: singer/musician Lionel McClelland (Sep 2010)
From: KirstenE
Date: 10 Sep 10 - 10:55 AM

Lionel's funeral will be held on
Wednesday 15th September
12.30pm
St Andrews Church of Scotland
Moffat

Subject: RE: Obit: singer/musician Lionel McClelland (Sep 2010)
From: GUEST,Bob Stewart
Date: 11 Sep 10 - 06:48 PM

I am devastated by the news of Lionel's death.I knew him as a member of Blackeyed Biddy, back in the days when our paths would cross touring the west highlands in the late eighties into the nineties. a sad and premature loss. My thoughts are with his family.

Subject: RE: Obit: singer/musician Lionel McClelland (Sep 2010)
From: GUEST,FRASER NIMMO
Date: 11 Sep 10 - 09:46 PM

I am so so sadened to hear of the loss of one of the Biggest Folk character I have ever met bar none!!!.He and me and Kris stayed in the same tour digs in Denmark on several occasions.Always happy times--even in the snow.My feelings and condolences are now with his nearest and dearest -a fine robust fellow, singer,writer player and poet.
I have tried on numerous occasions to describe his routine with "The Brush"to various people who looked at me bewildered.
I always hoped we would meet up again so he could continue the lessons started in Denmark circa 1994/5/6
See you someday Lionel
Farewell for now
Fraser

Subject: RE: Obit: singer/musician Lionel McClelland (Sep 2010)
From: GUEST,John Leitch
Date: 12 Sep 10 - 11:39 AM

Lionel was a true individual, a wonderful musician and a friend. I will miss him. Still in shock.

Deepest sympathy to Jane, Fraser, Keir and all his family, John.

Subject: RE: Obit: singer/musician Lionel McClelland (Sep 2010)
From: GUEST,David Baird.President, RobertBurnsWorld Fede
Date: 14 Sep 10 - 07:15 PM

"Here's a man, an honest friend,
What wad ye wish for mair man?
Wha kens before his life may end
What his share may be o' care man?
Then catch the moments ere they fly,
And use them as ye ought man,
Believe me happiness is shy,
And comes no aye when sought man."

A man who captured the essence of the Bard and made it accessable to us all, Lionel will be sairly missed.

Subject: RE: Obit: singer/musician Lionel McClelland (Sep 2010)
From: GUEST,Alasdair Smith
Date: 20 Sep 10 - 04:07 PM

Very saddened to here of Lionels passing Fond memories from roy bridge early eighties

Subject: RE: Obit: singer/musician Lionel McClelland (Sep 2010)
From: GUEST
Date: 21 Sep 10 - 04:59 AM

Subject: RE: Obit: singer/musician Lionel McClelland (Sep 2010)
From: Brian Peters
Date: 21 Sep 10 - 05:59 AM

How very sad. I met Lionel at Girvan a couple of times (most recently last year) and liked him a lot. Great fun, down to earth, full of passion and committment. My sincere condolences to his family.

Subject: RE: Obit: singer/musician Lionel McClelland (Sep 2010)
From: GUEST,willie haley
Date: 22 Sep 10 - 02:14 PM

what sad news about lionel.havnt seen him for over thirty years but will never forget his zest for life.RIP old friend.

Subject: RE: Obit: singer/musician Lionel McClelland (Sep 2010)
From: GUEST,Ken Carlyle ("Kenny")
Date: 28 Sep 10 - 05:13 PM

Fiona - a helluva gig.

Kier/Fraser - Kier - met you many moons ago. Your dad had travelled much and made great effort to ensure our wedding party happened - and did it!

Fraser - sorry for you guy - that shouldn't happen.

Donald - long time since you trashed the clutch on my Mini. Would've been good/sad to see you. Catch up when next etc. Kelly would have been - poor communication - my fault.

Gregor - you had a haircut and grew a belly! S'pose hardly surprising since '97 - Trish (keyboard from NY) says "Hello"

Mr "Two Left Feet"- not all "FGBs" (or Wannabees) were anathema to Lionel.

Lionel - Thanks for Being.

"Kenny"

Subject: RE: Obit: singer/musician Lionel McClelland (Sep 2010)
From: GUEST,Terry
Date: 22 Nov 10 - 02:04 PM

Will keep on with the curries! You'd like, that I know. Having a nostalgic night. Be with you later!!Much... until then xxx

Subject: RE: Obit: singer/musician Lionel McClelland (Sep 2010)
From: KirstenE
Date: 12 Dec 10 - 05:05 AM

Video - Lionel singing Auld Lang Syne with Bring In the Spirit
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m-7l8k4kREA

Subject: RE: Obit: singer/musician Lionel McClelland (Sep 2010)
From: KirstenE
Date: 12 Dec 10 - 05:07 AM

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m-7l8k4kREA

Subject: RE: Obit: singer/musician Lionel McClelland (Sep 2010)
From: GUEST,Val H
Date: 13 Apr 11 - 07:13 AM

I've only just come across the news of Lionel's death. It's brought tears to my eyes, he was such a lovely man. Everyone has said what I would have said, so will just get out the cd's and listen again and remember that marvellous human being. Will definitely be grabbing the new cd as a memento. My condolences to his family and everyone else whose life he enriched.

Subject: RE: Obit: singer/musician Lionel McClelland (Sep 2010)
From: GUEST,RICH MORAL
Date: 27 Jul 11 - 12:39 PM

Thanks for the tunes, and the chords.

your friend bossou5555

Subject: RE: Obit: singer/musician Lionel McClelland (Sep 2010)
From: GUEST,Adam Christie
Date: 11 Aug 11 - 09:54 PM

I remember you, Chris and I trying to get a tune out a set of pipes in the caravans behind the Clach. You made an unforgettable impact on my music tastes and beyond. To a gent and a scholar - you will live on in your music and in my memory.
Cheers