Mulligan Records Founder Dónal Lunny Dies at 79

Dónal Lunny produced 17 albums through his independent label, Mulligan Records, before his death at the age of 79. The family confirmed on Friday that the musician died of cancer. He passed away in the morning at St James's Hospital in Dublin following a brief hospital stay.

A statement posted to his Facebook page described the loss as heartbreaking. The family thanked the public for celebrating his work in music and culture. The message concluded with the Irish phrase "Ní bheidh a leithéid arís ann," which translates to the idea that his like will not be seen again.

Born in Tullamore in County Offaly, Lunny first gained attention as a member of the trio Rakes of Kildare. He performed alongside his brother Frank and Christy Moore. He later joined several prominent groups, including Planxty, Moving Hearts, the Bothy Band, and Coolfin. He toured internationally with these ensembles.

Lunny was a multi-instrumentalist, but he is most recognized for his skill on the bouzouki. He introduced the instrument to Irish traditional music. His peers recognized his role in the genre's revival. He was a member of the Aosdána society and received a lifetime achievement award at the 2025 RTÉ Radio 1 Irish folk awards.

President Catherine Connolly offered her condolences to Lunny's family and collaborators. She described him as one of Ireland's greatest musical figures. Connolly noted his long partnerships with Christy Moore and Andy Irvine. She highlighted his central role in the influential moments of Irish music over the past 60 years.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin said he was deeply saddened by the news. He called Lunny a colossus of Irish music, performer, and producer. Martin stated that Lunny was uniquely gifted and carried folk music to new audiences through his various projects. Sinn Féin president Mary Lou McDonald also paid tribute, calling him a giant of the tradition who shaped the sound for generations.

Lunny's work as a producer and melody writer placed him at the center of the traditional music scene. His death marks the end of a career that spanned several decades and multiple collaborations. He leaves behind a catalog of recordings and a distinct sonic footprint in the genre.