There is no doubt that we are a nation of storytellers, but we also know how to sing a song or two. Irish bands are among the biggest album sellers in the world, anyone ever heard of a little known band that go by the name MeToo? No wait. U2?
1. The Cranberries
A band that, initially, was not too successful here, The Cranberries recorded demos for the UK and were subsequently signed by Island Records. The band released Dreams, their first single in 1992 and later that year debuted their album, Everyone Else is Doing It, So Why Can’t We? It wasn’t until the band supported Suede that their careers really took off, MTV took particular interest and the band achieved their first number 1 album in 1994.
2. U2
Formed in 1976, U2 are arguably the most successful Irish band of all time. With albums that are commercially dominant whenever and wherever they are released, many of their compilations are now listed in various greatest works of music lists around the globe. From small venues in the 80’s, U2’s popularity soared to ensure sell-out stadium tours. With or Without You, One and Beautiful Day are just some of the band’s monster hits. And you know, Bono hasn’t lost his Irish accent really…
3. Westlife
Make no mistake about it, Westlife are certainly the most profitable of the boy bands. Following the “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” philosophy, the boys embraced stool sitting and general caressing of the camera. Not that it did them any harm, Westlife have sold a whopping 50 million albums worldwide. And they WILL reunite someday. You know it. Join in, we ALL know the words to this one…
4. The Pogues
If you’re at a Christmas party in Ireland and they don’t play Fairytale of New York, check again – you’re not in Ireland. Considered among his peers as a poet, Shane McGowan is possibly one of the most underrated songwriters of our generation. The beautiful Rainy Night in Soho is among the anthems of the Irish in London.
5. The Dubliners
Generally, if an American tourist heads into an Irish music shop, the album they will inevitably pick up or be recommended is by The Dubliners. Why? Because no one, and we mean no one, can play trad music like the Dubliners. Counting among their members Luke Kelly and Ronnie Drew over the years, the band have been become synonymous with Irish music. Take her up to Monto!
6. Thin Lizzy
The tragic story of Phil Lynott still haunts the streets of Dublin today. The singer, who struggled with drug addiction throughout his short life, died at the young age of 36. No other band sounded like Lizzy, it’s almost hard to believe that this sound came from Ireland. Lynott was one of the best front men ever, rivalling the likes of the Rolling Stones, but also one of our finest songwriters.
7. The Frames
Fronted by Oscar winner, Glen Hansard, The Frames are like Ireland’s best kept secret; whenever a tour is announced in Ireland, it sells out within hours. Hansard is often credited with being the starting point for a lot of singer songwriters in the country and has collaborated with the likes of Damien Rice and Snow Patrol. Is there anyone who doesn’t know Revelate in this country?
