Dublin Musician Dónal Lunny Dies at 79 After Cancer Battle
Family confirms passing at St James's hospital; state leaders praise his 60-year impact on folk music.
By Christopher Singh ·
The death of Dónal Lunny marks the end of a six-decade run that reshaped the sound of Irish traditional music. The bouzouki player and producer died on Friday morning at St James's hospital in Dublin.
His family confirmed the news via a post on his Facebook page, stating he passed away peacefully following a short hospital stay. The message described the family as heartbroken but expressed gratitude for the global recognition of his work. The note concluded with the Irish phrase "Ní bheidh a leithéid arís ann," which translates to the declaration that his like will not be seen again.
Lunny's musical career began in County Offaly, where he was born in Tullamore. He first gained public attention as a member of the trio Rakes of Kildare, playing alongside his brother Frank and Christy Moore. He subsequently performed and toured with several major groups, including Planxty, Moving Hearts, the Bothy Band, and Coolfin. While he played multiple instruments, he became best known for his mastery of the bouzouki, an instrument he helped integrate into the Irish folk canon.
Beyond performance, Lunny built a production career through his own label, Mulligan Records, where he produced 17 albums. His peer recognition included membership in the artistic society Aosdána. In 2025, he received a lifetime achievement award from RTÉ Radio 1 Irish folk awards, an honor that acknowledged his central role in the genre's revival.
President Catherine Connolly issued a statement offering her deepest condolences to Lunny's family and collaborators. She identified him as one of Ireland's greatest musical figures and credited him with shaping influential moments in Irish music over the last 60 years. Connolly specifically cited his long partnerships with musicians such as Christy Moore and Andy Irvine. She also noted his reputation for warmth and his strong connection with audiences both in Ireland and abroad.
Taoiseach Micheál Martin said he was deeply saddened by the news. He described Lunny as a colossus of Irish music and a uniquely gifted performer, songwriter, and producer. Martin added that Lunny carried traditional and folk music to new audiences through his work with Planxty and other projects.
Sinn Féin president Mary Lou McDonald paid tribute online, labeling him a giant of Irish traditional music. She stated that he helped shape the sound of the genre for generations and brought the country's musical heritage to audiences at home and abroad. McDonald wrote that his contribution to Irish music and culture will never be forgotten.
