There were poignant scenes in Finglas this morning as thousands of Aslan fans lined the streets to sing ‘This Is’ as Christy Dignam made his final journey through his homeplace.
The emotional rendition of the band’s 1986 single was performed by fans and residents – who gathered in the pouring rain – as the 63-year-old’s family paused to watch a video tribute to him as part of the procession. The tribute came after the cortege stopped to greet fans outside the local GAA club, and following a respectful silence.
A video of the tribute was shared by RTE journalist Samatha Libreri:
Thousands of Aslan fans sing This Is as Christy Dignams family pause to watch a video tribute to him in Finglas as part of his funeral procession @rtenews pic.twitter.com/h9J8XWPQtb
— Samantha Libreri (@SamanthaLibreri) June 17, 2023
The tribute was described as “beautiful” and “powerful” by Twitter users – with many fans of the Irish rock legend saying his music would continue to lift and unite people.
“I hope this gives his family pride in this sad moment,” one user wrote on Twitter.
Many said the video brought them to tears.
“Very poignant – Finglas at its best. Rest in Peace Christy,” one user, @tradheart wrote on the platform, sharing a video of people gathered.
“So beautiful and sad all at once,” another wrote.
The former lead singer of Aslan died on Tuesday at his home, following a ten-year battle with cancer. In January, his family had announced that Dignam, who was married for 37 years with one daughter, had started receiving palliative care in December.
The crowd went on to sing the band’s most popular song ‘Crazy World’ before Mr Dignam’s private funeral service took place this morning.
The musician is survived by his wife Kathryn, daughter Kiera, and three grandchildren, as well as a son-in-law, seven brothers and sisters, extended family, and his bandmates.