Kevin Conneff is a renowned Irish musician, best known as the lead vocalist and bodhrán player of the traditional Irish music group, The Chieftains. Born on October 10, 1945, in Donnycarney, Dublin, Conneff grew up in a family that was deeply involved in Irish music and culture. His father, John Conneff, was a well-known singer and collector of traditional Irish songs, and his mother, Maura, was a dancer and singer. Conneff's interest in music began at an early age, and he started playing the bodhrán, a traditional Irish drum, when he was just six years old. He was also exposed to other traditional Irish instruments, such as the fiddle and the uilleann pipes, through his father's collection of recordings. In the 1960s, Conneff became involved in the Irish folk music scene, playing with various groups and musicians. He joined The Chieftains in 1976, replacing their previous bodhrán player, Peadar Mercier. Conneff's powerful and distinctive voice quickly became a defining feature of the group's sound, and he also brought a new energy and enthusiasm to their live performances. Over the years, Conneff has been involved in many of The Chieftains' most memorable performances and recordings. He has collaborated with a wide range of musicians and artists, including Van Morrison, Sting, and Ry Cooder, and has performed at some of the world's most prestigious venues, such as Carnegie Hall and the Royal Albert Hall. One of Conneff's most notable performances with The Chieftains was their appearance in the 1995 film, "Braveheart." The group provided the soundtrack for the film, and Conneff's vocals were featured prominently on several tracks, including "The Battle of Stirling" and "The Road to the Isles." In addition to his work with The Chieftains, Conneff has also released several solo albums, showcasing his talents as a singer and bodhrán player. His 2002 album, "The Week Before Easter," was particularly well-received, featuring a mix of traditional Irish songs and original compositions. Throughout his career, Conneff has received numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to Irish music. In 1989, he was awarded the National Entertainment Award by the Irish government, and in 2011, he was inducted into the Irish Music Hall of Fame. The Chieftains have also been recognized with multiple Grammy Awards, and Conneff has been a key part of their success. Despite his many accomplishments, Conneff remains humble and dedicated to his craft. He continues to perform with The Chieftains and other musicians, and is widely regarded as one of the most talented and influential Irish musicians of his generation.

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