Right here stands a testament to a Glasgow legend McGinn of the Calton. McGinn of the Calton was more than just a musician. He was a voice for the working class. This plaque commemorates Matt McGinn. He was a Scottish folk singer songwriter actor and poet. McGinn was born near this spot in Ross Street.
McGinn of the Calton was a great Scottish socialist. He was a Scottish patriot loved by the people of Scotland. Matthew McGinn was born on January 17 1928. Sadly he died on January 5 1977. McGinn’s life was short but impactful.
McGinn of the Calton grew up in Calton Glasgow. He was the eighth of nine children. At 12 he went to an approved school. Despite this McGinn became a political debater. In his early 20s he was recognized as charismatic.
McGinn studied economics and political science. He attended Ruskin College in Oxford. Later he trained as a teacher. He then worked in Lanarkshire. Eventually McGinn became the organizer of the Gorbals Adventure Playground.
McGinn of the Calton entered the folk scene. He won a song contest with “The Foreman O’Rourke”. Pete Seeger championed McGinn’s music. McGinn performed at Carnegie Hall. There he met a young Bob Dylan.
McGinn’s music career took off in the 1960s. While others played traditional music McGinn became known for his humor. He was also a playwright. McGinn was a prolific songwriter. He drew inspiration from Glasgow life.
McGinn of the Calton was a communist. He was a republican and trade unionist. McGinn was a member of the Communist Party of Great Britain. His performances were popular in clubs and concert halls.
McGinn’s songs reflected Glasgow and the West of Scotland. He wrote about the lives of ordinary people. McGinn also wrote songs for children. “Little Ticks of Time” was used in the BBC program Play School.
McGinn of the Calton also wrote a novel. It was about his time in approved school and titled “Fry the Little Fishes”. His songs are still performed today. Folk musicians in Scotland and America keep his memory alive.
McGinn died in 1977 from smoke inhalation. He was only 48 years old. In January 2019 this blue plaque was installed. It honors McGinn in the Calton district.
McGinn of the Calton was a Celtic fan. He wrote a song about the Lisbon Lions. He also wrote about the Ibrox Stadium Disaster. A pub in Glasgow is named after him. It was previously called “The Two Heided Man”.
McGinn of the Calton’s legacy lives on. He used his music to express his beliefs. He left behind a history of Scotland in words and music. McGinn gave voice to the voiceless. McGinn of the Calton remains a true Glasgow hero. This plaque stands as a reminder of his powerful voice and enduring impact.