Dónal Lunny, Bouzouki Master, Dies in Dublin at 79

Dónal Lunny died on Friday morning at St James's Hospital in Dublin.

The 79-year-old musician, known globally for his work on the bouzouki, succumbed to cancer following a brief hospitalization. His family confirmed the news via a Facebook post that described his passing as peaceful. They thanked supporters who recognized his impact on music and culture worldwide. The message concluded in Irish, stating that his like will not be seen again.

Lunny was born in Tullamore, County Offaly. He first gained international attention as a member of the trio Rakes of Kildare, which included his brother Frank and Christy Moore. Over a career spanning six decades, he performed with several prominent groups, including Planxty, Moving Hearts, the Bothy Band, and Coolfin. While he played multiple instruments, his command of the bouzouki became his defining trait. He also wrote melodies and ran the Mulligan Records label, through which he produced 17 albums.

President Catherine Connolly sent condolences to Lunny's family and collaborators. She described him as one of Ireland's greatest musical figures and a central force in the country's musical history over the last 60 years. Connolly pointed to his long partnerships with artists like Christy Moore and Andy Irvine. She also cited his innovative work with Planxty and his reputation as a producer. Her statement noted that peers recognized his role in integrating the bouzouki into Irish music, evidenced by his membership in Aosdána and a lifetime achievement award at the 2025 RTÉ Radio 1 Irish folk awards.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin expressed deep sadness over the loss. He called Lunny a colossus of Irish music who was uniquely gifted as a performer, songwriter, and producer. Martin said Lunny carried traditional and folk music to new audiences through Planxty and other projects. Sinn Féin president Mary Lou McDonald also paid tribute online. She described him as a giant of Irish traditional music who helped shape the sound of the genre for generations. McDonald noted that he brought the country's musical heritage to audiences both at home and abroad.

The family stated that Lunny will be remembered for his warmth and his strong connection with audiences across Ireland and beyond. They added that he will be deeply missed by those who knew him.