Dónal Lunny, who produced 17 albums on Mulligan Records, dies at 79

Dónal Lunny, the Irish musician and producer who released 17 albums on his own label, died at the age of 79. His family confirmed the news on Friday, stating that he passed away peacefully in the morning at St James's Hospital in Dublin following a brief hospital stay. A post on his Facebook page described him as having made an "immense contribution to music, to culture and to so many people's lives all over the world." 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, County Offaly, Lunny first gained attention as a member of the trio Rakes of Kildare, performing alongside his brother Frank and Christy Moore. He subsequently joined several prominent groups, including Planxty, Moving Hearts, the Bothy Band, and Coolfin. While he played multiple instruments, Lunny became best known for his mastery of the bouzouki, an instrument he helped integrate into the Irish traditional music canon. He was also recognized as a melody writer and a central figure in the revival of the genre.

President Catherine Connolly offered her "deepest condolences" to Lunny's family and collaborators. She described him as one of Ireland's greatest musical figures and noted that he was central to many influential moments in Irish music over the past 60 years. Connolly pointed to his long partnerships with musicians such as Christy Moore and Andy Irvine, as well as his work as a producer. She highlighted his membership in Aosdána and his receipt of a lifetime achievement award at the 2025 RTÉ Radio 1 Irish folk awards as recognition of his peers.

"Beyond his music, Dónal will be remembered for his warmth and the strong connection which he had with audiences all over Ireland and beyond," Connolly said. "He will be deeply missed."

Taoiseach Micheál Martin said he was "deeply saddened" by the news. He characterized Lunny as "a colossus of Irish music" and noted that the musician was "uniquely gifted" in bringing traditional and folk music to new audiences through Planxty and other projects.

Sinn Féin president Mary Lou McDonald paid tribute online, calling Lunny "a giant of Irish traditional music." She stated that he helped shape the sound of Irish music for generations and brought the country's musical heritage to audiences at home and abroad. "His contribution to Irish music and culture will never be forgotten," she wrote.