In honor of the festivities tomorrow, we thought we’d take some time to revamp our playlists with some Irish-inspired music. From folk to chart-topping pop to high-energy punk (any Flogging Molly fans out there?), Celtic-infused music may be just what you’re looking for to amp up your St. Patrick’s Day party this year. Add in some fiddle and tin whistle solos, and all of the Irish eyes will definitely be smiling. So what other bands and artists are fitting for the celebration of Irish history, festivals and all things green?
For a little playlist inspiration, check out the Boston Globe’s list of artists and bands to add to your iPod this year:
U2
Legendary rockers U2, who have been selling out stadiums of devoted fans for almost three decades, met in Dublin as teenagers when drummer Larry Mullen Jr. posted a notice at school looking for musicians to start a band.
Bob Geldof
The musician has an incredible rock pedigree as the frontman of The Boomtown Rats and as the star of Pink Floyd’s epic 1982 flick “The Wall.” Geldof is also renowned for his extensive activism, organizing the iconic charity concerts Live Aid and Live 8.
The Saw Doctors
This Irish crew has been touring and releasing hit albums for decades, with 14 albums released. The 1990 song “I Useta Lover” became one of Ireland’s bestselling singles.
Damien Rice
Indie rocker Damien Rice fronted Irish band Jupiter for eight years before splitting to travel around Europe and play on street corners. He released his first solo album “O” in 2003 (songs “The Blower’s Daughter” and “Cold Water” were included on the soundtrack for the Natalie Portman and Jude Law flick “Closer”) and a second album “9” in 2006.
Thin Lizzy
As one of the first bands to use two lead guitars in their music, the members of Thin Lizzy were music pioneers. Not only did they push the boundaries of sound, they were also one of the first multiracial bands and were made up of both Catholic and Protestant members from both sides of the Irish border.
The Cranberries
The Cranberries delivered melodic rock to angsty teens in the 1990s both at home in Ireland and abroad. Though the band went on hiatus in 2003, they reunited in 2009 and released the album “Roses” in February 2012.
Enya
Enya, born Eithne Patricia Ni Bhraonáin, has recorded seven studio albums to date. The soothing “Orinoco Flow” singer and composer has won the Grammy for best new age album four times.
The Corrs
This Grammy-nominated foursome knows a thing or two about brotherly and sisterly love. Caroline, Sharon, Andrea and Jim Corr, born in Dundalk, Ireland, formed their group in 1991 so they could audition for the film “The Commitments.”
Celtic Woman
This sweet-sounding group of singers, who have been called “Riverdance for the voice,” began as a one-night fundraising concert in 2004 for PBS. They continue to perform and have released eight studio albums.
Van Morrison
Born George Ivan Morrison in 1945, “Van the Man” rose to fame in the late 1960s and 1970s with his soulful tunes and unique vocals.
What is your favorite Irish or Celtic music? Share your own playlist favorites by leaving a comment below or on our Facebook page!
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Suzy S.