Famous Irish Guitarists

Rory Gallagher was an Irish musician and songwriter known for his virtuosic guitar playing style. Referred to as "the greatest guitarist you've never heard of," he influenced notable musicians like Alex Lifeson, Brian May, and Eric Clapton. Gallagher formed the blues rock power trio Taste in 1966, which saw moderate success in the UK. After Taste disbanded, he pursued a solo career, releasing music in the 1970s and 1980s. Despite selling over 30 million records worldwide, his popularity waned in the 1980s due to industry changes and health issues.

The Edge, also known as David Howell Evans, is a British-Irish musician, singer, and songwriter best recognized as the lead guitarist, keyboardist, and backing vocalist of the rock band U2. He has recorded numerous albums with the band and has also pursued solo projects. The Edge's unique guitar playing style, characterized by rhythmic delay and various effects, has become a signature of U2's music. He has also been involved in philanthropic efforts and has received numerous awards for his contributions to the music industry.

Allie Sherlock is an Irish singer, guitarist, songwriter, and busker known for her captivating performances. She gained widespread recognition after a video of her covering Ed Sheeran's "Supermarket Flowers" went viral on YouTube in June 2017. Her talent led her to appear on The Ellen DeGeneres Show in 2018, further solidifying her reputation as a rising star. Sherlock frequently showcases her musical skills on the streets of Dublin, particularly on Grafton Street, where she captivates audiences with her powerful voice and impressive guitar playing.

Damien Rice is an Irish musician, singer, and songwriter who began his career in the 1990s with the rock group Juniper before venturing into a successful solo career. He achieved critical acclaim with his debut album "O" in 2002, which reached No. 8 on the UK Albums Chart and won the Shortlist Music Prize. Rice continued to release music, with his third studio album, "My Favourite Faded Fantasy," coming out in 2014. He has also been involved in various charitable projects, showcasing his commitment to using music for social causes.

Dave King is a prominent Irish singer, musician, and songwriter known for his work with Flogging Molly, a band he co-founded. His career began as the original lead singer of the hard rock group Fastway in the 1980s, where he gained recognition. Transitioning to Flogging Molly, King has continued to make significant contributions to the music industry. With his distinct vocals and songwriting skills, he has established himself as a respected figure in the music world, captivating audiences with his passionate performances.

Ronnie Drew was an Irish singer, folk musician, and actor known for his fifty-year career recording with The Dubliners. He sang lead vocals on hit singles "Seven Drunken Nights" and "The Irish Rover", both UK top 10 chart successes. His distinctive voice, likened to the sound of coke being crushed under a door, captivated audiences and critics alike. A versatile artist, Drew's contributions to folk music and acting left a lasting impact, establishing him as a prominent figure in the music industry.

Dik Evans is a talented Irish musician known for his role as a co-founder and guitarist of the bands Virgin Prunes and U2. He played a significant part in the early formation of U2, contributing to the band's initial lineup and early performances. Evans later went on to co-found other musical projects, such as The Kid Sisters (later known as The Screech Owls), showcasing his versatility and creativity as a guitarist. His contributions to various musical endeavors highlight his enduring impact on the Irish music scene.

Fiachna Ó Braonáin is a talented guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter known for his work with the Irish band Hothouse Flowers. He co-founded the band, originally named the Incomparable Benzini Brothers, with Liam Ó Maonlaí. In addition to his success with Hothouse Flowers, Fiachna has collaborated with artists like Belinda Carlisle and released albums with his other band PreNup. He has also showcased his passion for music through hosting a radio show and released a solo album titled Bougainvillea in 2020.

Noel Hogan is an accomplished Irish musician and record producer recognized for his role as the lead guitarist and co-songwriter of the Cranberries, a prominent Irish alternative rock band. With a career spanning several decades, Hogan has played a pivotal role in shaping the distinctive sound and success of the band. His contributions include crafting memorable guitar melodies and collaborating on songwriting, helping to establish the Cranberries as a widely acclaimed and influential presence in the music industry.

Rick Laird was an Irish musician renowned for his role as the bassist and a founding member of the jazz fusion band Mahavishnu Orchestra. He contributed significantly to the band's success during his tenure from 1971 to 1973. Laird's skillful bass playing and musical creativity were instrumental in shaping the band's unique sound and captivating audiences worldwide. His professional journey was marked by a passion for music, dedication to his craft, and a lasting legacy in the realm of jazz fusion music.

Dominic Scott is a talented guitarist from Ireland who co-founded the rock band Roundstone and was a key member of the alternative rock band Keane. He played a significant role in the early formation of Keane, contributing to the band's musical direction and sound. However, he eventually parted ways with Keane in 2001 to focus on his studies. His departure allowed the band to explore new musical directions, blending electronic and ambient influences while maintaining Keane's signature epic and dreamlike sound.

Lynn Hilary is a talented Irish singer, guitarist, and songwriter known for her captivating performances. She has made a significant impact as a featured soprano soloist in the renowned all-female ensemble Celtic Woman. With her powerful vocals and musical skills, Lynn has garnered a strong following and critical acclaim in the music industry. Her diverse talents have allowed her to excel in various musical genres, showcasing her versatility and passion for creating beautiful music that resonates with audiences worldwide.

Seán Cannon is an accomplished Irish musician who has been a guitarist for The Dubliners and later for The Dublin Legends since 1982. With a career spanning decades, he has contributed his musical talents to these iconic Irish bands, playing a key role in their performances and recordings. Cannon's skill and dedication as a guitarist have made him a respected figure in the Irish music scene, earning him a reputation as a talented and versatile musician.

Gerry Leonard is an Irish guitarist renowned for his unique harmonic and ambient guitar style. He has made significant contributions to the music industry through collaborations with iconic artists such as David Bowie, Suzanne Vega, Rufus Wainwright, and Laurie Anderson. His versatility is evident in his work with various musicians, showcasing his talent and creativity. Additionally, his solo project, Spooky Ghost, further demonstrates his skills as a musician and composer. Currently residing in New York, Gerry Leonard continues to influence and inspire audiences with his exceptional musical abilities.

Bob Lynch was an Irish folk musician known for his time as a member of The Dubliners from 1964 to 1965. He joined the group alongside John Sheahan and contributed as a guitarist and vocalist. Lynch recorded one album with The Dubliners before pursuing a solo career in North America. He found success with his solo work, with two of his songs charting in the U.S. Lynch released a solo album titled From The Land of Carolan in 1980. Tragically, he struggled with depression and ultimately died by suicide in 1982.

Big Tom, an Irish country, traditional, and easy listening singer, guitarist, and saxophone player, had a successful career spanning over six decades. He rose to fame in 1966 as the lead singer of the Irish showband Big Tom and The Mainliners. Known for his rich voice and engaging performances, Big Tom earned a reputation as a beloved figure in Irish music. His contributions to the country music genre are enduring and have left a lasting impact on the music industry.

Kojii Helnwein is a versatile professional with a successful career in acting, music, and modeling. With a wide range of talents, she has established herself as a multi-faceted artist. In the field of acting, Kojii has showcased her skills through various roles, demonstrating her versatility and dedication to her craft. As a musician, she has captivated audiences with her musical talents and performances. Additionally, her work as a model has garnered attention for her unique style and presence in the fashion industry.

Paddy Reilly is a renowned Irish folk singer and guitarist, known for his powerful renditions of classic ballads such as "The Fields of Athenry" and "The Town I Loved So Well". His version of "The Fields of Athenry" became a chart-topping hit in 1983, showcasing his musical talent and popularity. Reilly joined The Dubliners in 1996, further solidifying his status in the folk music scene. After a successful tenure with the group, he eventually returned to Ireland, continuing to captivate audiences with his emotive performances.

Keith Duffy is an accomplished Irish bass guitarist renowned for his pivotal role in the folk-pop band, The Corrs. Serving as a long-standing support member, he has played a crucial part in the band's success, contributing significantly to the recording of numerous studio albums. With his exceptional musical talents and dedication, Keith Duffy has solidified his reputation as a key figure within the band, earning widespread recognition for his contributions to the music industry.

Bernie Tormé was an Irish rock guitarist, songwriter, and record label owner renowned for his work with Gillan, Ozzy Osbourne, and Desperado. He gained fame as a talented musician with a distinctive style, particularly during his brief stint replacing Randy Rhoads in Osbourne's band. Tormé also collaborated with Twisted Sister's Dee Snider in forming the band Desperado and toured with Atomic Rooster. As a recording studio owner, he made significant contributions to the rock music industry, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the music world.

Caitlín O'Riordan is a British musician known for her work as a bass guitarist. She gained recognition for her role in the band the Pogues from 1983 to 1986. Following her time with the Pogues, she collaborated with artists such as Elvis Costello and bands like Bush Tetras. O'Riordan also hosts her own radio show called The Rocky O'Riordan Show on Sirius-XM. She is active on social media under the name Rocky O'Riordan, where she engages with her audience and shares updates on her musical endeavors.

Richie Malone is an Irish musician known for his role as the rhythm guitarist for the English rock band Status Quo. He joined the band in July 2016 as a temporary replacement for guitarist Rick Parfitt, who was unable to tour following a heart attack. Tragically, Parfitt passed away later that year, leading to Malone becoming his permanent replacement. With his skilled guitar playing and dedication to the band, Malone continues to contribute to Status Quo's iconic sound and legacy.

Ciarán Bourke was a talented Irish musician known for his significant contributions to The Dubliners, a renowned Irish folk band. As one of the original founding members, Bourke played a crucial role in shaping the band's distinctive sound and success. His skills as a musician, particularly as a vocalist and tin whistle player, were highly regarded within the folk music community. Bourke's professionalism, dedication, and passion for traditional Irish music left a lasting impact on both the band and the genre as a whole.

Orla Gartland is a prominent Irish singer, songwriter, and musician known for her successful music career. She gained recognition with her debut album, "Woman On The Internet," which achieved impressive chart success in Ireland and the UK. In addition to her album, she has released multiple EPs showcasing her diverse musical talents. Gartland further expanded her career by joining the supergroup Fizz in 2023, leading to the release of their debut album, "The Secret to Life," under Decca Records.

Philip Chevron, professionally known as Philip Chevron, was an Irish singer-songwriter, guitarist, and record producer. He was renowned as the lead guitarist for the celtic punk band the Pogues and as the frontman for the 1970s punk rock band The Radiators from Space. His career was marked by significant contributions to Irish punk music, earning him a reputation as one of the genre's most influential figures. Chevron's work with both bands showcased his talent and versatility as a musician, leaving a lasting impact on the music industry.

Howard M. Leese is an accomplished American guitarist, record producer, and musical director known for his extensive career in the music industry. He gained prominence as a guitarist and keyboardist for the band Heart, where he performed for 23 years. Leese has continued his musical journey as a solo artist and as a guitarist for The Paul Rodgers Band and Bad Company. His contributions to rock music were recognized when he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Heart in 2013.

Lisa O'Neill is an Irish singer-songwriter known for her unique and soulful folk music. With a career spanning several years, she has released multiple albums and singles that have received critical acclaim. O'Neill is recognized for her raw and emotive vocal delivery, as well as her poignant and introspective songwriting. She has performed at various music festivals and venues, showcasing her talent and connecting with audiences through her powerful and authentic performances. Lisa O'Neill continues to captivate listeners with her distinctive musical style and storytelling ability.

Damien Dempsey is a renowned Irish singer and songwriter known for blending traditional Irish folk music with contemporary lyrics that offer social and political insights into Irish society. He is recognized for singing in his authentic working-class accent in English, as well as occasionally in the Irish language. Dempsey's professional career is characterized by his unique ability to use music as a platform for commentary and reflection, making him a respected figure in the Irish music scene and beyond.

Pete St. John, born in Dublin, Ireland, was a renowned Irish folk singer-songwriter known for his iconic composition "The Fields of Athenry". Throughout his career, he captivated audiences with his emotive and poignant lyrics, capturing the essence of Irish culture and history. St. John's music resonated deeply with listeners, showcasing his talent for crafting meaningful and evocative songs that touched the hearts of many. His contributions to the folk music genre solidified his legacy as a celebrated artist in the music industry.