Dropkick Murphys and Flogging Molly, two of the biggest Irish folk punk bands on the scene are teaming up to celebrate 20 years of mayhem with a summer tour! While we count down the days to the tour, let’s take a look at some other famous Irish rock bands.
#5 – Stiff Little Fingers
Hailing from Belfast, Stiff Little Fingers self proclaim “We put the FAST in Belfast”. I agree! I was lucky enough to catch Stiff Little Fingers in 2014 with Naked Raygun, Bad Religion, and The Offspring.
Favorite track: Alternative Ulster
#4 – Thin Lizzy
From Dublin, Ireland, Thin Lizzy assembled in 1969. They had a string of international hits including “Boys are Back in Town”, “Jailbreak”, and “Whiskey in the Jar (cover)”.
Favorite track: Dancing in the Moonlight
#3 – My Bloody Valentine
My Bloody Valentine came together in Dublin circa 1983. The band’s 1991 album “Loveless” is considered one of the greatest albums of the 1990s (and my brother Scott’s all time favorite).
Favorite track: When You Sleep
#2 – The Cranberries
The Cranberries formed in Limerick in 1989. They achieved four top 20 albums and eight top 20 singles before the untimely passing of lead singer Dolores O’Riordan earlier this year. In 2017, several shows on their fall tour had to be cancelled including a stop in my hometown. I never got the chance to see them live.
Favorite track: Liar
#1 – U2
Of course #1 is U2! Not that they need any introduction, but U2 was created in 1976 in Dublin. They are one of the largest rock bands in the world and have been in the top ten for highest grossing tours year after year.
Favorite track: Pride (In the Name of Love)
Thanks for checking out our Top 5 Irish Rock Bands!
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Written by Spencer Fleming