The best Irish bands and musicians

We can thank Ireland for some of the best music ever made. It still remains just as potent today, with huge contributions to the post-punk scene as well as plenty of beautiful folk music and pop. We thought we'd take a look at some of the best Irish bands and musicians, who have been incredibly influential in their genres. With a mixture of classic artists and modern greats. 

Fontaines D.C.

One of the biggest rock bands on the planet at the moment, Fontaines D.C. have had a quick rise. Originally firmly within the post-punk mould, the scope of their music has gotten bigger and bigger to the point that they're truly in their own lane now. The poetic musings of singer Grian Chatten resonate with thousands of people, and they have the huge chorus' that make them an unmissable live act.

Tickets for Fontaines D.C.

The Cranberries

Led by the late Dolores O'Riordan, The Cranberries have timeless hits including 'Zombie', 'Dreams', 'Linger' and more. The kind of artist that other artists love to cover, they have people spellbound with their dream pop sound, which paired with O'Riordan's powerfully accented vocals makes for one cathartic combination.

Sinead O'Connor

Sinead O'Connor was a prodigious talent. Across nine albums which switched from Irish folk to pop and jazz, she had singles which topped the charts across the world across the world such as 'Nothing Compares 2 U'. One of the most enduring parts of her legacy is her unrelenting commitment to activism, completely steadfast in her beliefs. She called out sexism in music, and the Catholic church. She'll forever be remembered as a brilliant songwriter.

Van Morrison

Van Morrison could argue that he has one of music's strongest catalogues, with a fantastic run of albums from the late 60s to the late 70s. a tireless creator, Morrison's contribution to folk music and rock cannot be underestimated. Astral Weeks is one of the greatest albums of all time and is constantly quoted by modern artists as an inspiration. 

Lankum

More of a modern great, Lankum are a critically-acclaimed folk band who bring about traditional music into the modern age. Mercury Prize nominated for their 2023 album 'False Lankum', the quartet will surely influence more people to pick up folk music and they are beloved by their Irish contemporaries.  

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U2

A band who need little introduction, the Bono-led contingent were one of the biggest bands on the planet, and therefore have a huge influence on pop music. 1987's The Joshua Tree will forever remain a classic. 

The Pogues

The Pogues aren't all about a Christmas song. The band, led by Shane McGowan, brought together punk music with folk. They stuck up for the working class and became one of the late-80s most radical bands.

Bicep

The late 2010's were a time when Bicep were completely inescapable. Their hit song 'Glue' was the sound of 2017 and many summers since. A modern dance music great, they keep evolving with new concepts, playing the biggest stages across the world. 

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Hozier

Would we even have the Noah Kahan's of the world if it weren't for Hozier? With his booming vocals and eye for devastating song craft, Hozier is undoubtedly influential. A lot of imitators have come along but none match the romance and mythology embedded in his work. 

Tickets for Hozier

Rory Gallagher

Rory Gallagher was a self-taught guitarist who is credited as one of the greatest to ever take hold of the instrument. Often credited as they type of artist who is your "favourite artist's favourite artist," he is largely seen as a singular talent. Johnny Marr, Dean Bradfield and Brian May are just a few who have praised the Irish star.

If you want to celebrate this year's St Patrick's Day in style, then we have events all around the UK and Ireland here.

Check out our What's On Guide to discover even more rowdy raves and sweaty gigs taking place over the coming weeks and months. For festivals, lifestyle events and more, head on over to our Things To Do page or be inspired by the event selections on our Inspire Me page.