Dublin Says Goodbye to Dónal Lunny, Whose Mulligan Imprint Will Never Be Replicated

Dónal Lunny, the Irish musician and founder of Mulligan Records, died at the age of 79. His family confirmed the news on Friday, stating he passed away peacefully in the morning at St James's Hospital in Dublin following a short stay.

The cause of death was cancer. A post on his Facebook page described the loss, noting that the family was heartbroken to confirm his passing. They thanked those who helped celebrate his contribution to music and culture worldwide. The message concluded with the Irish phrase "Ní bheidh a leithéid arís ann," which translates to the belief that his like will not be seen again.

Lunny was born in Tullamore, County Offaly. He first gained prominence as a member of the trio Rakes of Kildare, performing alongside his brother Frank and Christy Moore. He subsequently joined several other groups, including Planxty, Moving Hearts, the Bothy Band, and Coolfin. These ensembles toured extensively, bringing his performances to audiences around the world.

While he played multiple instruments, Lunny was best known for his command of the bouzouki. He is regarded as a central figure in the revival of Irish traditional music. As a producer, he released 17 albums through his own label, Mulligan Records. He was also recognized as a gifted melody writer.

President Catherine Connolly offered her deepest condolences to Lunny's family, friends, and collaborators. She described him as one of Ireland's greatest musical figures and a wonderfully talented musician and producer. Connolly noted that Lunny was central to many influential moments in Irish music over the past 60 years. She cited his long partnerships with Christy Moore and Andy Irvine, as well as his innovative work with Planxty, the Bothy Band, and Moving Hearts.

Connolly also pointed to his role in introducing the bouzouki to Irish music. This contribution was recognized by his membership in Aosdána and a lifetime achievement award at the 2025 RTÉ Radio 1 Irish folk awards. She added that beyond his music, Lunny was remembered for his warmth and his strong connection with audiences in Ireland and abroad.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin said he was deeply saddened by the news. He called Lunny a colossus of Irish music, praising his skills as a performer, songwriter, and producer. Martin stated that Lunny was uniquely gifted and carried traditional and folk music to new audiences through Planxty and other endeavors. Sinn Féin president Mary Lou McDonald also paid tribute, describing him as a giant of Irish traditional music who helped shape the sound of the country's musical heritage for generations.