Irish Folk Legend: Dónal Lunny Dies at 79

Dónal Lunny has died. The Irish musician was 79 years old. His family confirmed the news on Friday. He died from cancer. He passed away peacefully this morning. This was at St James's hospital in Dublin. He had only been there for a short time.

The family shared a statement on his Facebook page. They said they were heartbroken. They described him as a beloved figure. They thanked people who helped celebrate his life. They noted his immense contribution to music and culture. The message ended in Irish. It said his like will not be seen again.

Lunny was born in Tullamore. This is in County Offaly. He first became famous in the group Rakes of Kildare. He played with his brother Frank. He also played with Christy Moore. He later joined other celebrated groups. These included Planxty, Moving Hearts, the Bothy Band and Coolfin. He toured around the world with these bands.

He played many instruments. But he is best known for the bouzouki. He was a gifted melody writer. He is seen as central to the revival of traditional music. He produced 17 albums. He did this through his own label, Mulligan Records.

President Catherine Connolly reacted to the news. She offered her deepest condolences. She spoke to the family and friends. She also acknowledged his many musical collaborators. She called him one of Ireland's greatest musical figures. She described him as wonderfully talented. She said he was a musician and a producer.

Connolly said he was central to key moments in Irish music. This spanned the past 60 years. She highlighted his long partnerships. These included Christy Moore and Andy Irvine. She noted his innovative work with Planxty. She also mentioned the Bothy Band and Moving Hearts. She recognized his reputation as a producer.

She pointed out his role in bringing the bouzouki to Irish music. His peers recognized this contribution. He was a member of Aosdána. He received a lifetime achievement award. This was at the 2025 RTÉ Radio 1 Irish folk awards. Connolly said he will be remembered for his warmth. She noted his strong connection with audiences. This was all over Ireland and beyond. She said he will be deeply missed.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin also reacted. He said he was deeply saddened. He called Lunny a colossus of Irish music. He noted his work as a performer and songwriter. He also acknowledged his role as a producer. Martin said Lunny was uniquely gifted. He carried traditional and folk music to new audiences. He did this through Planxty and other endeavors.

Sinn Féin president Mary Lou McDonald paid tribute online. She called him a giant of Irish traditional music. She said he helped shape the sound of Irish music. This influence lasted for generations. He brought the country's musical heritage to many people. This included audiences at home and abroad. She wrote that his contribution will never be forgotten.