Manx folk music stalwart and presenter John Kaneen dies

Tributes to 'larger than life character and proud Manxman'

Long-serving Manx Radio presenter and stalwart of Manx folk music and culture, John Kaneen, has died. 

John presented Manx Radio’s Folk Music programme for some 45 years. With his unique wit and incredible knowledge of the folk scene, John had a very loyal following, with many of his listeners tuning in from further afield.

His programmes were crafted to perfection and combined an enormous mix of music, including many of his own recordings. For many years, John would go out and record concerts and performances, not just to include in his programme, but also to capture them for posterity. 

After an incredible four and a half decades on air, he retired from the programme in the summer of 2022.

John was also a very accomplished musician and will be fondly remembered as a lynchpin of the Calor Gas Ceilidh Band.

He could be seen regularly at events around the Island, leading many a rousing ceilidh. He would also take to the streets each year on St Stephen’s Day, to play for Hunt the Wren.

In 2019, he was awarded the prestigious Reih Bleeaney Vanannan for his contribution to the Isle of Man’s music scene.

You can listen to Manx Radio's obituary for John Kaneen below:

Manx Radio extends its deepest condolences to John’s family and friends.