The Dubliners

There are no musical barriers where THE DUBLINERS are concerned.   Their concerts have been attended over the years by such notables as Stephane Grappelli, Prince Rainier, James Galway, Kate Bush, Terence Trent D'Arby, UB40, Nigel Kennedy, Van Morrison, Peter O'Toole and a host of Statesmen, Lord Mayors, Civic Dignitaries and millions of music fans throughout the world.   THE DUBLINERS popularity is unquestionable and their contribution to the world of folk music is unparalleled.   After a life-time of globe trotting they have never compromised through ever-changing musical fads.   They are probably the best accident to happen to the world of folk music and contribute to it not only with their superb voices, but also with their exceptional talent as musicians and entertainers.

They achieved their success and chart popularity without ever compromising their musical integrity, and they have made folksong a part of the musical diet of the man in the street.   In doing so they paved the way for the emergence of other bands such as Planxty, Moving Hearts, De Dannan, The Pogues, U2 and others too numerous to mention.   In those halcyon days of the early 60's THE DUBLINERS popularised Irish music and song among the masses.   After 46 years on the road, the lads, who were such an important part of the British "folk revival", continue to play sell-out concerts all over the world whilst many of their contemporaries remain but a distant memory.

THE DUBLINERS remain an institution.   Their albums have sold millions world-wide and their music has filled our lives with songs of love, life, drink, and tales of the emigrant while their instrumental pieces have been a source of inspiration for many young musicians today.   In their music and their personalities THE DUBLINERS epitomise the essence of the great City on the banks of the Liffey.   Over the years the line-up has changed, three of them following the premature deaths of Luke Kelly, Ciarán Bourke and Ronnie Drew.   Yet on every occasion they march forward as good as, if not better than, before.   As Billy Connolly said, "there isn't a band on earth who can live with THE DUBLINERS live on stage". Long may their magic continue!

The present line-up of the Group is as follows:

Barney McKenna, John Sheahan, Seán Cannon, Eamonn Campbell and Patsy Watchorn.