Donnie MacLeod

Donnie MacLeod is well known in the Gaelic world, from his band Na h-Òganaich and from the children’s programme Dòtaman.

Donnie’s family are from Lewis, but he was brought up in Peterhead before running off to join the Merchant Navy.

Back on dry land, Donnie put a guitar he had bought in Singapore to good use. He and his sister Margaret formed the Gaelic band Na h-Òganaich, along with musician Noel Eadie. They won the Battle of the Bands at the 1972 Mod in Stirling and continued to win many more prizes. They became very popular and have toured in many different countries.

In the mid 80s, the Gaelic children’s programme Dòtaman started. This programme attracted a new audience for Donnie. He became well-known for his funny hats as well as his catchy songs and almost everyone in Scotland knew who Donnie Dotaman was!