Top Celtic Music Artists: From Enya to The Pogues

Celtic music spans a broad spectrum, from Enya’s serene melodies to The Pogues’ spirited anthems. Our list highlights the artists who have significantly influenced the genre, providing a knowledgeable guide to the icons of Celtic music.

The article presents top Celtic music artists: Flogging Molly, Afro Celt Sound System, The Irish Rovers, Clannad, The Corrs, The Chieftains, Celtic Woman, Enya, Sinead O'Connor, The Pogues, Lúnasa, and The Dubliners.

Know more about these iconic Celtic music artists in our detailed guide. We've got plenty more to share on how they've shaped the genre and their standout contributions. Read on to discover the stories and legacies of these legendary figures.

Flogging Molly

Formed in Los Angeles in 1994, Flogging Molly is an American Celtic punk band, comprising seven members and led by Irish singer Dave King, a former member of the hard rock band Fastway. The band owns and operates under their record label, Borstal Beat Records. Throughout their musical journey, they've drawn inspiration from artists such as The Dubliners, The Pogues, Horslips, Johnny Cash, and The Clash. Their 2004 album, "Within a Mile of Home," pays homage to the late Johnny Cash and Joe Strummer from The Clash.

Flogging Molly's musical repertoire encompasses an eclectic mix ranging from high-energy Celtic punk as showcased in "Salty Dog," "Cruel Mistress," and "Seven Deadly Sins," to more introspective tracks like "Far Away Boys," "The Son Never Shines (On Closed Doors)," "Life in a Tenement Square," and "Float." King's lyrics often address topics including Irish history, socio-economic issues, politics, love, and death, featuring frequent allusions to the Catholic Church. Notably, songs like "What's Left of the Flag" and "The Likes of You Again" serve as touching tributes to King's father, who passed away when King was young.

‍

Afro Celt Sound System

The Afro Celt Sound System, established in 1995 by Simon Emmerson, is a collective that creatively blends electronic beats with Gaelic and West African sounds. This dynamic collective frequently includes diverse guest artists, contributing to its unique blend of cultural influences. After a brief name change to Afrocelts in 2003, the ensemble reverted to its original name, further establishing its identity in the world music scene.

Their music, widely acclaimed and embraced for its fusion of genres, finds a home with Peter Gabriel's Real World Records, where they stand as one of the top-selling acts. Their agreement with the label involved the release of five albums, culminating with "Volume 5: Anatomic." Known for their vibrant performances, they've become regulars at WOMAD festivals across the globe.

Earning a Grammy nomination in 2000 for Best World Music, the band's composition at the time featured eight members hailing from six different countries: the UK, Senegal, Guinea, Ireland, France, and Kenya. The group's philosophy, highlighted by McNally's commentary, centers around music's ability to bridge cultural divides and dismantle genre barriers, making everywhere feel like home and significantly altering their perspectives.

‍

The Irish Rovers

Established in Toronto in 1963 and named after the iconic folk song, "The Irish Rover," The Irish Rovers have been instrumental in popularizing Irish music within North America. The group achieved fame not only through their music but also via their international television series, marking a significant contribution to the global appreciation of Irish tunes. Among their most celebrated tracks are hits like "The Unicorn," "Drunken Sailor," and "Wasn't That a Party," alongside traditional anthems such as "The Orange and the Green" and "The Black Velvet Band."

Over the years, The Irish Rovers' lineup has seen distinctive talents, with Will Millar, Jimmy Ferguson, George Millar, Joe Millar leading the initial phase, and later years featuring John Reynolds and Ian Millar. Wilcil McDowell's accordion playing has become a defining element of their sound for over five decades. In a notable shift during the early 1980s, the band, briefly adopting the name The Rovers, ventured into country-rock terrain, earning international acclaim with "Wasn't That a Party" and entertaining audiences with "Grandma Got Run Over By a Reindeer." However, by the late 1980s, they returned to their roots, proudly reclaiming the name The Irish Rovers.

‍

Clannad

Clannad, originating in Gweedore, County Donegal in 1970, unites Irish siblings Ciarán, Pól, and Moya Brennan with their uncles Noel and Pádraig Duggan. Originally known as Clann as Dobhar, they began as a traditional Irish folk group, infusing their sound with acoustic melodies and Irish lyrics. Their musical exploration broadened over time, incorporating English language songs, vocal harmonies, electronic components, and diverse influences from rock, Celtic, new age, smooth jazz, and Gregorian chants.

In the early 1970s, Clannad’s work drew extensively from their Irish roots, leading to the popularization of traditional tunes like "Dúlamán," "Teidhir Abhaile Riú," and "Coinleach Glas An Fhómhair". However, in 1982, they underwent a metamorphosis, fashioning a unique style that redefined new age and Celtic music. Pioneering tracks like "Theme from Harry's Game" and "Newgrange" intrigued global audiences with a transcendent sound that hitherto had no equal.

Credited for pioneering the genre of Celtic music, Clannad has continuously captivated audiences with its signature harmonies. Despite embedding aspects of electronica and pop in their music and charting worldwide with several songs, they've persistently maintained a strong connection to their Gaelic origins, weaving their distinctive sonorous tapestry into traditional Irish songs.

‍

The Corrs

The Corrs, originating from Dundalk, County Louth, Ireland, artfully mix pop rock with traditional Irish music themes. The sibling quartet consists of Andrea, Sharon, Caroline, and Jim Corr who together, utilize a diverse range of instruments including drums, violin, guitar, tin whistle, mandolin, and the bodhrán to accompany their vocal harmonies.

Throughout their career, they've released seven studio albums and various singles, achieving worldwide sales of 40 million albums. Their most successful album, "Talk on Corners," reached multi-Platinum status in Australia and was the top-selling album of the year in the UK, while "In Blue" dominated charts in seventeen countries and led to two Grammy Award nominations.

Caroline Corr summed up their sound as a fusion of contemporary beats and electronic innovations with classic acoustic Irish instruments, defining their unique musical identity. Their work, especially in early albums like "Forgiven, Not Forgotten" and "Talk on Corners," blends pop rock with folk rock, adding a distinctive edge with more pronounced guitar use and a firm grounding in their Irish musical heritage.

‍

The Chieftains

The Chieftains, a seminal Irish folk band formed in Dublin in 1962 by Paddy Moloney, Seán Potts, and Michael Tubridy, have played a pivotal role in bringing traditional Irish music to a global audience. With their sound predominantly centered around the uilleann pipes, they have become a defining presence in the genre, earning six Grammy Awards and a Lifetime Achievement Award at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards in 2002. Recognizing their contribution to music and culture, the Irish government honored them as 'Ireland's Musical Ambassadors' in 1989.

Taking their name from John Montague's book, "Death of a Chieftain," their early support from Garech Browne and Claddagh Records helped them achieve international fame. Their collaborations with artists across various genres, including Van Morrison on the critically acclaimed album "Irish Heartbeat," expanded their influence and audience. Their work has spanned decades, engaging with musicians such as Luciano Pavarotti, the Rolling Stones, Madonna, Sinéad O'Connor, and Roger Daltrey.

In celebration of their 50th anniversary in 2012, The Chieftains released "Voice of Ages," an ambitious project produced by T Bone Burnett featuring collaborations with artists like Bon Iver, Paolo Nutini, and The Decemberists, and notably, a track with astronaut Catherine Coleman playing flute from the International Space Station. Their influence and contributions to music are continually celebrated, highlighting their enduring legacy in Irish folk music.

‍

Celtic Woman

Celtic Woman, an all-female Irish music ensemble, was initially formed for a singular performance in Dublin in 2004. Their international tours began following significant exposure and popularity boosts from PBS broadcasts. Since their inception, they have released over 20 albums and achieved global sales exceeding nine million records. Originally comprising Chloë Agnew, Órla Fallon, Lisa Kelly, Méav Ní Mhaolchatha, and Máiréad Nesbitt, the group has seen several changes in its lineup, now featuring Mairéad Carlin, Tara McNeill, Muirgen O'Mahony, and Emma Warren as of mid-2023. Often likened to "Riverdance for the voice," Celtic Woman blends vocal harmonies with violin performances to create their signature sound. Their acclaim reached new heights when they secured an EBBA Award in 2007, an honor celebrating emerging artists who achieve international success with their first album released outside their home country. Further elevating their status, their album "Celtic Woman: Destiny" was nominated for a Grammy Award in the "Best World Music Album" category in 2017, underlining their significant impact on world music and international audience reach.

‍

Enya

Born on May 17, 1961, Eithne Pádraigín Ní Bhraonáin, universally recognized as Enya, has emerged as a phenomenal Irish musician, singer, and composer, carving a niche for herself in modern Celtic music. Holding the prestigious title of the best-selling Irish solo act, she trails only behind the iconic rock band U2 in terms of overall sales for Irish music acts. Her upbringing in Gweedore, an Irish-speaking locale, laid the foundational stone for her deep-rooted musical journey. Starting in 1980, Enya initiated her career within her family’s Celtic folk group, Clannad, before venturing solo in 1982. With the collaboration of Nicky Ryan, her former producer, and his partner Roma as a lyricist, she spent years refining her signature sound. Enya’s music uniquely fuses layered vocals with keyboard, while drawing on diverse elements from Celtic, classical, and various other music genres, showcasing her versatility and innovative spirit.

Her vocal prowess is often categorized under the mezzo-soprano range, with her musical inspirations deeply anchored in classical music, hymns, and traditional Irish tunes, expressing a fond admiration for the compositions of Sergei Rachmaninoff. Despite her global fame, Enya prefers a life away from the public eye, firmly believing that her music should speak for itself, a testament to her dedication to her art and her desire for privacy in a world keen on celebrity.

‍

Sinéad O'Connor

Sinéad O'Connor, an iconic Irish singer, songwriter, and passionate activist, left a deep imprint on the music world with her distinctive voice and evocative lyrics. Born on December 8, 1966, she rose to fame with her debut album "The Lion and the Cobra" in 1987, making an immediate impact on the international music scene. Her 1990 release, "I Do Not Want What I Haven't Got," became a global phenomenon, largely thanks to the heartrending single "Nothing Compares 2 U," which topped charts worldwide and secured her status as a music luminary. O'Connor's discography reflects her versatile talent, with albums achieving gold status across the UK, Australia, and Ireland, including "Am I Not Your Girl?", "Universal Mother," and "Faith and Courage." Beyond recording, she contributed to film soundtracks, collaborated with a myriad of artists, and took part in numerous charity events. Her talents extended to writing, with her memoir "Rememberings" hitting bestseller lists in 2021.

Tragically, on July 26, 2023, the world lost Sinéad O'Connor. Found unresponsive in her London home at 56, her untimely departure was mourned globally. Authorities later confirmed she passed of natural causes, marking the end of an era for fans and the music industry alike, but leaving behind a legacy of artistic integrity and emotional depth that continues to resonate.

‍

The Pogues

The Pogues, a trailblazing band hailing from King's Cross, London in 1982, and initially christened Pogue Mahone—a cheeky nod to an Irish idiom—forged a new musical path by injecting the raw energy of punk into traditional Celtic sounds. Led by the exuberant Shane MacGowan, their unique lineup, which included instruments like the tin whistle, banjo, and accordion, struck a chord with audiences, defying the conservative norms of Irish music. Initially facing criticism from traditionalists, they eventually earned acclaim for breathing new life into a classic genre.

Known for their raucous and impassioned live performances, The Pogues' reputation grew from performing in local establishments to joining the iconic band The Clash on their 1984 tour, which amplified their fame. With their rise in popularity came a slight modification to their name, shortening it to The Pogues for practical reasons amidst regulatory challenges. Their evolutionary sound did not stop at their punk and Celtic roots; as they grew, so did their eclectic incorporation of jazz, flamenco, and Middle Eastern melodies, showcasing their impressive versatility and expansive musical influence.

‍

Lúnasa

Lúnasa, umarked by its commitment to traditional Irish music, started in 1997 and was named after ancient harvest festival, Lughnasadh. The foundation of the band took place when two musicians, Sean Smyth and John McSherry, partnered up with Steve Cooney to promote Smyth's individual album, "The Blue Fiddle". They brought on board Mike McGoldrick, a mutual acquaintance. Initially, they performed as a quartet, but Cooney took his leave as the band's popularity began to thrive.

Now well-known for their interpretations of both longstanding and modern Irish works, Lúnasa's skillful performances have won them worldwide recognition. Their reach extends across the globe, from the Americas and Europe to the distant parts of Asia. This has given them opportunities not only to regale global audiences with Irish music but also to influence and refresh the genre within Ireland itself. Their albums stand testament to their achievements, highlighting their ability to seamlessly synthesize historical and contemporary styles and affirming Lúnasa's significant contribution to the music of Ireland.

‍

The Dubliners

Initially known as the Ronnie Drew Ballad Group when they formed in Dublin in 1962, the band eventually took the name The Dubliners. Throughout their five decades in the music scene, their composition of members shifted frequently, yet the heart of their success always lay in the powerful performances of lead singers Luke Kelly and Ronnie Drew. Their repertoire, rich in lively Irish folk songs, traditional street ballads, and intricate instrumentals, won them international praise.

Though The Dubliners secured a beloved place in European folk music, they never quite reached the level of acclaim in the United States that The Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem enjoyed. Despite this, their influence profoundly shaped the musical landscape for several Irish bands across generations. Modern groups like The Pogues, Dropkick Murphys, and Flogging Molly owe much to the path paved by The Dubliners. In Ireland, their versions of classic Irish ballads are often considered the quintessential renditions. Celebrating a landmark 50 years of music in 2012, The Dubliners hold the distinction of being one of the most enduring and influential acts in the history of Irish music.

‍

Conclusion

In summing up, the progression of Irish folk music largely owes its dynamism to key artists that have each carved their niche in both preserving and evolving the genre. Bands like The Dubliners built the foundation, gaining traction through a combination of traditional Irish folk songs and street ballads. Their influence is evident in how they have set the standard for Irish music, and their impact can be sensed in the music of groups that followed.

Later artists such as The Pogues integrated punk elements with folk music, while Lúnasa focused on instrumental skills, showcasing the versatility within the genre. These groups played a crucial role in spreading Irish music internationally and affected how it developed by inspiring new artists and broadening the genre's appeal.

Through their prolific tours and recordings, these bands have proved the enduring appeal of Irish music, carving out a lasting place for it on the world stage. They have managed to keep the tradition alive while simultaneously innovating, ensuring Irish music's relevance to new audiences. Moving forward, the influence of these pioneering bands will likely continue to be seen as Irish music evolves with each new wave of artists.