French, Percy (1854-1920), an Irish singer and songwriter, was one of the most popular entertainers of his time. French was famous for storytelling, performing sketches, and singing, sometimes to his own banjo accompaniment. He performed in many countries of Europe and in North America. One of the first songs he wrote was “Abdulla Bulbul Ameer” (1877). Many of his best-known songs have a humorous Irish theme, such as “Slathery’s Mounted Fur” (1889), “Phil the Fluther’s Ball” (1889), “Mat Hannigan’s Aunt” (1892), and “Come Back Paddy Reilly” (1912). French wrote the words to “The Mountains of Mourne” (1896). He also wrote musical plays.
French was born on May 1, 1854, in Cloonyquin, County Roscommon, Ireland, and educated at Trinity College, Dublin. He began writing and performing in 1890, after working for several years in civil engineering. He died on Jan. 24, 1920.
