Mulligan Records founder Dónal Lunny dies at 79 with 17 albums in catalog

Dónal Lunny, the Irish musician who built a catalog of 17 albums under his Mulligan Records imprint, has died. He was 79. His family confirmed the death on Friday, stating he passed away peacefully in the morning at St James's Hospital in Dublin following a brief hospitalization.

Lunny’s label, Mulligan Records, served as the primary vehicle for his work as a producer. Over his career, he produced 17 albums that document the evolution of Irish traditional music. His discography reflects decades of collaboration with major figures in the genre, solidifying his status as a central figure in the industry's commercial and artistic output.

The musician was born in Tullamore, County Offaly. He first gained prominence in the trio Rakes of Kildare, performing alongside his brother Frank and Christy Moore. He subsequently joined Planxty, Moving Hearts, the Bothy Band, and Coolfin. These groups toured internationally, expanding the reach of Irish folk music to global audiences.

Although a multi-instrumentalist, Lunny was most identified with the bouzouki. His integration of the instrument into traditional Irish arrangements is widely regarded as a key development in the genre. He also worked as a melody writer and producer. His peers recognized his influence through his membership in Aosdána and a lifetime achievement award at the 2025 RTÉ Radio 1 Irish folk awards.

President Catherine Connolly offered condolences to the family and friends. She described Lunny as one of Ireland's greatest musical figures and a talented producer. Connolly noted his central role in many influential moments in Irish music over the past 60 years. She highlighted his partnerships with Christy Moore and Andy Irvine, as well as his work with Planxty, the Bothy Band, and Moving Hearts.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin said he was deeply saddened by the news. He called Lunny a colossus of Irish music and a uniquely gifted performer, songwriter, and producer. Martin noted that Lunny carried traditional and folk music to new audiences through Planxty and other projects. Sinn Féin president Mary Lou McDonald also paid tribute, describing him as a giant of Irish traditional music who shaped the sound of the genre for generations.

The family posted a message on Lunny's Facebook page, thanking those who celebrated his contribution to music and culture. The post concluded with the Irish phrase Ní bheidh a leithéid arís ann, which translates to the idea that his like will not be seen again.