Famous Irish Lyricists & Songwriters

Gilbert O'Sullivan is an Irish singer-songwriter known for his success in the early 1970s with hits like "Alone Again (Naturally)", "Clair", and "Get Down". His music features distinctive piano playing and clever wordplay in his lyrics. Moving to England as a child, O'Sullivan began his music career in 1967. He has achieved worldwide success with 16 top 40 records, including six No. 1 songs. Throughout his career, he has released 19 studio albums and received multiple awards for his songwriting and singing talent.

Roma Shane Ryan is an accomplished Irish writer, poet, and lyricist known for her significant contributions to the music industry. As the primary lyricist for the renowned singer Enya, Ryan's work has played a crucial role in shaping Enya's unique sound and success. Enya herself has acknowledged the vital importance of Ryan's lyrical prowess, attributing a significant part of her own artistic existence to the creative collaborations with the talented writer. Ryan's profound impact is evident in the enduring popularity and critical acclaim of their collaborative work.

Luka Bloom is an Irish folk singer-songwriter known for his emotive and introspective music. With a career spanning several decades, he has released numerous albums showcasing his distinctive voice and poetic songwriting. Bloom is recognized for his ability to blend traditional folk influences with contemporary sounds, creating a unique and captivating musical style. His performances are celebrated for their raw honesty and heartfelt storytelling, earning him a dedicated fan base worldwide. Bloom continues to inspire audiences with his soulful melodies and thought-provoking lyrics.

Percy French was a multifaceted talent known for his work as a songwriter, author, poet, entertainer, and painter. He gained popularity for his witty and humorous songs, many of which became classics in the Irish music scene. French's creative output also extended to writing poetry and entertaining audiences with his performances. Additionally, he showcased his artistic skills through painting. French's professional life was characterized by his diverse artistic endeavors, leaving a lasting impact on Irish culture and entertainment.

Rea Garvey is an Irish singer, songwriter, and guitarist known for his successful career in the music industry. He gained recognition as the frontman of the band Reamonn, achieving chart-topping success in Europe with gold and platinum-selling albums and sold-out tours. After parting ways with the band in 2010, Garvey embarked on a solo career, releasing his debut album "Can't Stand the Silence" in 2011. His solo work showcased a transition from anthem rock to alternative electro pop, highlighting his versatility as a musician.

Dermot Kennedy is an Irish singer and songwriter known for his hit singles such as "Outnumbered", "Power Over Me", and "Giants". He gained widespread recognition with his feature on Meduza's single "Paradise". Signed to Interscope Records in the US and Island Records worldwide, Kennedy released his debut major-label studio album "Without Fear" in 2019, followed by his second album "Sonder" in 2022. Additionally, he has released an EP titled "I've Told the Trees Everything", showcasing his talent and versatility in the music industry.

Andy Irvine is a highly influential Irish folk musician with a career spanning over six decades. He is a founding member of several notable bands and duos, showcasing his mastery of various instruments including the mandolin, mandola, bouzouki, harmonica, and hurdy-gurdy. Irvine is known for his innovative approach to traditional folk music, incorporating diverse influences from Irish, English, Scottish, Eastern European, Australian, and American traditions. He has collaborated with numerous musicians, contributed to instrument design, and received prestigious awards for his significant contributions to the folk music genre.

Dónal Lunny is an influential Irish folk musician and producer known for his mastery of guitar, bouzouki, keyboards, and bodhrán. Over five decades, he has played a pivotal role in the revival of Irish traditional music through his involvement in bands such as Planxty, The Bothy Band, Moving Hearts, Coolfin, Mozaik, LAPD, and Usher's Island. Lunny's professional career showcases his musical versatility and innovative contributions to the folk music scene, establishing him as a key figure in the Irish music renaissance.

Liam Ó Maonlaí is a prominent Irish musician known for his role as a founding member and lead vocalist of the band Hothouse Flowers, which he co-formed with Fiachna Ó Braonáin in 1985. He has made significant contributions to the music industry through his distinctive vocals and musical talents, garnering acclaim for his performances both with the band and as a solo artist. Ó Maonlaí's professional career is characterized by his passion for music, creativity, and dedication to his craft, earning him recognition as a respected figure in the Irish music scene.

Brendan Graham is a renowned Irish songwriter and novelist, best known for his impressive contributions to the music industry. He has penned several successful songs, including "Rock 'n' Roll Kids" and "The Voice," which both secured victories for Ireland at the Eurovision Song Contest. Another notable achievement is his composition of "You Raise Me Up," a globally popular song that has been covered by numerous artists, such as Josh Groban. Graham's talent and creativity have earned him recognition and acclaim in the music world.

Nahum Tate was an accomplished Anglo-Irish poet, hymnist, and lyricist who rose to prominence as Poet Laureate in 1692. He is most renowned for his adaptation of Shakespeare's King Lear, titled The History of King Lear, published in 1681. Tate also made a significant contribution to the world of opera by writing the libretto for Henry Purcell's acclaimed opera, Dido and Aeneas. Through his literary works, Tate left a lasting impact on English literature and the arts during his professional career.

Philip Chevron, professionally known as Philip Chevron, was an Irish singer-songwriter, guitarist, and record producer. He was best known for his role 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. Throughout his career, Chevron made significant contributions to Irish punk music and left a lasting impact on the industry. His work as a musician and producer solidified his reputation as one of the most influential figures in the genre.

Christopher Simpson is an Irish actor known for his role as Karim in the film adaptation of Monica Ali's novel Brick Lane. With a career spanning several years, he has showcased his talent and versatility in various film projects. Simpson's performances have been praised for their depth and authenticity, earning him recognition within the industry. His dedication to his craft and ability to bring characters to life on screen have solidified his reputation as a skilled and respected actor in the entertainment world.

Danny O'Donoghue is an accomplished Irish singer-songwriter and musician, known for his role as the frontman of the popular Irish rock band, The Script. Prior to his success with The Script, O'Donoghue was a member of the Irish boy band Mytown. He further gained recognition by serving as a coach on the first two seasons of the television singing competition, The Voice UK. Throughout his career, O'Donoghue has showcased his talents as a versatile musician and mentor in the music industry.

Gavin James, known professionally as Gavin James, is an accomplished Irish singer-songwriter with a notable career in the music industry. His talent has been recognized through winning the Choice Music Prize Irish Song of the Year award twice, in March 2013 and March 2016. Gavin's captivating vocals and heartfelt lyrics have garnered him a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim. He continues to impress audiences with his emotive performances and has established himself as a prominent figure in the global music scene.

Bernie Tormé was an Irish rock guitarist, songwriter, and recording studio owner. He gained recognition for his work with Gillan and his short tenure with Ozzy Osbourne, stepping in for Randy Rhoads. Tormé also co-founded the band Desperado with Dee Snider of Twisted Sister and toured with Atomic Rooster. Throughout his career, he showcased his talent as a versatile musician, collaborating with various artists and bands, leaving a lasting impact on the rock music scene with his innovative guitar techniques and songwriting skills.

Daniel O'Donnell is an Irish singer, television presenter, and philanthropist known for his successful career in the music industry. Rising to fame in 1983, he has become a household name in Ireland, Britain, and Australia. With a unique blend of country and Irish folk music, he has sold over ten million records worldwide. O'Donnell is celebrated for his strong connection with fans, engaging stage presence, and long-standing success in the music charts. He is considered a cultural icon in Ireland and a prominent ambassador for his home county of Donegal.

Justin Sane, also known as Justin Cathal Geever, was a prominent figure in the American music scene as the lead guitarist, singer, and songwriter of the punk rock band Anti-Flag. Formed in 1988, the band gained recognition for its left-wing political stance. Sane's contributions to Anti-Flag's music and activism were significant until the band disbanded in 2023 amidst rape allegations against him. Sane's professional life was defined by his music career with Anti-Flag and his involvement in advocating for social and political causes.

Frank O'Donovan was a versatile Irish talent known for his work as an actor, singer, and songwriter. His most notable role was portraying Batty Brennan in the pioneering Irish television series, The Riordans, a character he portrayed for a decade. Through his performances in this iconic TV soap, O'Donovan left a lasting impact on Irish television and entertainment. His contributions as an actor and entertainer have solidified his place in the history of Irish media and performance arts.

Samuel Lover, also known as "Ben Trovato," was a versatile artist known for his work as an Irish songwriter, composer, novelist, and portrait painter specializing in miniatures. His creative talents spanned various artistic disciplines, showcasing his skill and passion for the arts. Lover's contributions to music, literature, and visual arts have left a lasting impact on the cultural landscape of his time. Through his diverse body of work, he established himself as a prominent figure in the artistic community, earning recognition for his creativity and artistic prowess.

Janet Devlin is a Northern Irish singer-songwriter known for her participation in The X Factor in 2011, finishing fifth. She released her debut album, Hide & Seek, in 2013, followed by several EPs and singles. In 2020, she released her second studio album, Confessional. Devlin has built a successful career in the music industry, showcasing her unique voice and songwriting skills. She continues to captivate audiences with her emotive music and has garnered a dedicated fan base over the years.

Darren Holden is an accomplished Irish singer-songwriter known for his performances on Broadway in productions such as Riverdance and Movin' Out, as well as in national tours for these shows. He released his debut solo album in Ireland in 1998, showcasing his musical talents. Later on, Darren joined the Irish folk group, the High Kings, alongside Finbarr Clancy and Brian Dunphy, further establishing himself as a versatile and skilled artist in the music industry.

Chloë Agnew is an Irish singer renowned for her contribution as an original and former member of the Celtic music ensemble Celtic Woman. Her professional career is highlighted by her exceptional vocal talent and captivating stage presence. Agnew has garnered widespread acclaim for her powerful and emotive performances, captivating audiences worldwide with her unique interpretation of Celtic music. Through her work with Celtic Woman, she has solidified her reputation as a versatile and gifted vocalist, leaving a lasting impact on the music industry.

Michael Graham, also known as Mikey Graham, is an Irish singer-songwriter, actor, and record producer. He gained fame as a member of the popular boy band Boyzone. Throughout his career, Graham has been involved in creating music, both as a performer and behind the scenes as a producer. His talents as a singer and songwriter have contributed to the success of Boyzone, and he has also showcased his acting abilities in various projects. Graham continues to be a prominent figure in the music industry.

Ronan Harris is the founding member of electronic music project VNV Nation, handling songwriting, production, lyrics, and vocals. Before the band's debut album, he worked as an IT manager at Q8 Petroleum in London and was a journalist/webmaster for dark electro magazine Side-Line. His professional journey showcases a diverse skill set encompassing music creation, technology management, and media expertise. Harris's commitment to music and multimedia endeavors has solidified his reputation as a versatile and talented figure in the electronic music scene.

Méav Ní Mhaolchatha, known mononymously as Méav, is an Irish singer, songwriter, and recording artist known for specializing in traditional Irish music. She gained prominence as an original soloist in the musical group Celtic Woman, contributing to the sale of over six million albums. Méav's solo albums have achieved recognition, reaching the Billboard World Music Top 10 chart. Known for her multilingual abilities, she sings in various languages including English, Irish, French, Latin, Italian, and German, showcasing her diverse vocal talents.

Dominic Behan was an influential Irish writer, songwriter, and singer known for his works in both Irish and English. He was a socialist and Irish republican, using his music to advocate for social and political causes. Behan's talent as a songwriter made him one of the most prominent figures in Irish music during the 20th century. Through his compositions, he captured the spirit of Irish culture and history, leaving a lasting impact on the music scene with his powerful and thought-provoking lyrics.

Orla Gartland is a talented Irish singer, songwriter, and musician known for her captivating music. She achieved significant success with her debut album, "Woman On The Internet," which garnered top chart positions in Ireland and the UK. Alongside her album, she has released multiple EPs, showcasing her diverse musical talents. In 2023, Gartland became a member of the supergroup Fizz and contributed to their debut album, "The Secret to Life," released under Decca Records. Her professional journey is marked by creativity, passion, and a strong presence in the music industry.

Lynn Hilary is a talented Irish singer, guitarist, and songwriter known for her exceptional vocal abilities. She has garnered recognition for her performances as a featured soprano soloist in the prestigious all-female ensemble Celtic Woman. With her captivating voice and musical skills, Lynn Hilary has made a significant impact in the music industry, captivating audiences worldwide with her heartfelt performances. Her dedication to her craft and passion for music have established her as a respected and accomplished artist in the field of vocal performance.

Lesley Roy is an Irish singer-songwriter who has had a diverse and successful career in the music industry. She began by releasing her debut album in 2008, which included a top 40 hit single in the US. Transitioning to songwriting and attracting attention from industry professionals, Roy has gone on to write for various artists internationally. Her involvement in the Eurovision Song Contest in both 2020 and 2021 showcases her talent as a performer and producer, with her songs achieving chart success in Ireland.

Eleanor McEvoy is a highly accomplished Irish singer-songwriter known for her significant contributions to the music industry. She gained widespread recognition for composing the song "Only a Woman's Heart," which served as the title track for the best-selling Irish album in history, "A Woman's Heart." McEvoy's professional life is characterized by her exceptional talent in songwriting and performing, earning her a respected reputation among fans and peers alike. Her music continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, solidifying her status as a prominent figure in the music scene.

Tara Lee is a talented Irish actress, singer, and songwriter known for her work in both television and film. She is signed to BMG Chrysalis, showcasing her musical abilities. In 2018, she made a notable appearance in the popular TV show EastEnders, portraying the character Jessica Jones across four episodes. Beyond her television work, Lee has also successfully ventured into the world of film, demonstrating her versatility and skill across different mediums in the entertainment industry.

Gemma Hayes is a versatile Irish musician, singer-songwriter, and composer known for her exceptional skills as a vocalist and guitarist. She is proficient in playing various instruments, such as the piano and harmonica, showcasing her diverse musical talents. Additionally, Hayes is a member of several notable musical groups, including The Cake Sale, Printer Clips, and Trio (alongside Lisa Hannigan and Paul Noonan), further solidifying her reputation as a talented and collaborative artist in the music industry.

Tony Lundon is a versatile professional in the entertainment industry, with experience as a singer, cinematographer, director, producer, and actor. He gained recognition as a member of the popular music group Liberty X during the early 2000s. Transitioning to a behind-the-scenes role, Lundon shifted his focus to producing and directing. He founded his own production company, The Cell Productions, where he has been actively involved in creating content for film and television since 2010. Lundon's diverse skill set and entrepreneurial spirit have driven his successful career in the industry.

Howard M. Leese is an accomplished American guitarist, record producer, and musical director known for his 23-year tenure with the band Heart from 1975 to 1998. Throughout his career, Leese has continued to make significant contributions to the music industry as a solo artist, as well as a guitarist with The Paul Rodgers Band and Bad Company. In recognition of his talent and influence, he was honored with induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2013 as a member of Heart.

Wallis Bird is an accomplished Irish musician who has been based in Berlin since 2012. With six studio albums under her belt as of February 2023, she has established herself as a talented artist in the music industry. Notable releases include "Architect" in 2014 and "Home" in 2016, showcasing her diverse musical abilities. Through her work, Wallis Bird continues to captivate audiences with her unique sound and emotive performances, solidifying her reputation as a respected and dynamic musician.

Declan O'Rourke is a renowned singer-songwriter hailing from Kinvara, Ireland, known for his emotive storytelling through music. With a career spanning several decades, he has released multiple critically acclaimed albums that have garnered widespread recognition and praise from both fans and critics alike. O'Rourke's music often delves into themes of love, loss, and the human experience, resonating with audiences around the world. His soulful voice and poetic lyrics have solidified his reputation as a talented and respected artist in the folk and acoustic music scene.

Hazel Kaneswaran is an established Irish recording artist, singer-songwriter, and television personality with a career spanning over two decades. She has been an integral part of the Irish music industry since 1996, showcasing her talents and making a significant impact. With her versatile skills, Hazel has captivated audiences with her music and performances, establishing herself as a respected figure in the industry. Her contributions have solidified her reputation as a talented and influential artist in the music scene.

Éabha McMahon, known for her contralto voice, is an Irish singer who gained prominence as a former member of the popular ensemble Celtic Woman. In 2020, she transitioned to recording music under the name AVA, expanding her artistic reach. With a strong musical background and a unique vocal range, Éabha has captivated audiences with her emotive performances and distinctive style. Her professional journey showcases a versatile artist who continues to evolve and make significant contributions to the music industry.

Gavin Friday is a versatile Irish artist known for his work as a singer, songwriter, composer, actor, and painter. He gained recognition as a founding member of the post-punk band The Virgin Prunes. Throughout his career, Friday has demonstrated a diverse range of talents, from his captivating performances on stage to his evocative compositions. His artistic endeavors have brought him acclaim and respect within the music and entertainment industries, showcasing his creativity and passion for the arts.

Damien Dempsey is a renowned Irish singer and songwriter known for blending traditional Irish folk music with contemporary lyrics that provide social and political commentary on Irish society. Singing predominantly in his native working-class accent in English, he occasionally incorporates the Irish language into his music. With a career spanning decades, Dempsey has established himself as a prominent figure in the Irish music scene, captivating audiences with his powerful vocals, thought-provoking lyrics, and unique blend of musical styles.

Joe Lynch was an Irish actor, singer, and songwriter known for his versatile performances in comedy and drama. He had a successful career in voice acting for children's animated series, notably in Chorlton and the Wheelies. Lynch showcased his musical talents through his performances in the film Johnny Nobody and recordings of songs by other songwriters. His rendition of "Cottage by the Lee" was among his popular recordings from the 1950s, highlighting his contribution to the entertainment industry as a multi-talented artist.

Lisa Lambe is a versatile Irish artist known for her talents in singing, acting, songwriting, and folkloric traditions. With a career spanning various creative disciplines, she has captivated audiences with her powerful vocals and captivating performances. Lambe has showcased her musical prowess through numerous projects and collaborations, establishing herself as a respected figure in the entertainment industry. Her dedication to preserving and sharing Irish folklore adds depth to her artistic endeavors, demonstrating a commitment to cultural heritage through her work.

Dickie Rock is an Irish singer who achieved significant success on the Irish charts in the 1960s. He has maintained his popularity over the years by becoming a popular live act and occasionally making appearances on the charts. Known for his captivating performances, Dickie Rock has continued to entertain audiences with his music. His enduring career in the music industry reflects his talent and ability to connect with fans, solidifying his reputation as a respected and beloved figure in Irish music.

Cathy Davey is an accomplished Irish singer-songwriter with a successful career spanning multiple albums and EPs. Known for her expressive songwriting and captivating performances, Davey has received critical acclaim and accolades for her work. She has performed at prestigious international events and festivals, showcasing her talent to a global audience. Collaborating with various artists and supporting renowned musicians, Davey has established herself as a prominent figure in the Irish music scene. Her albums have been well-received, with "Tales of Silversleeve" and "The Nameless" earning nominations and top-selling status in Ireland.

Damien Leith is an accomplished Irish-Australian singer-songwriter who gained fame by winning the Australian Idol music contest in 2006. Since then, he has released a total of nine studio albums, with four of them reaching the top two spots on the ARIA Charts, including two number ones. His success in the music industry is evident through the seven platinum and one gold certifications awarded by ARIA for his albums and singles, reflecting his impressive total sales figures.

Pete St. John, born Peter Mooney, was a renowned Irish folk singer-songwriter. Hailing from Dublin, Ireland, he gained fame through his exceptional talent for composing emotive and memorable folk songs. His most notable work, "The Fields of Athenry," became a beloved classic within the genre. St. John's professional career was marked by a dedication to preserving and sharing the rich musical traditions of Ireland, leaving a lasting impact on the folk music scene with his heartfelt compositions.

Michael William Balfe was an Irish composer known for his operas, notably The Bohemian Girl. After starting as a violinist, he transitioned to opera singing and composing. Over a career of over 40 years, he produced 29 operas, nearly 250 songs, various cantatas, and more. Balfe also excelled as a conductor, leading performances at Her Majesty's Theatre and other venues. His contributions to the world of music were significant and enduring, solidifying his reputation as a talented and versatile musician.

Jimmy MacCarthy is a renowned Irish singer-songwriter known for his heartfelt and poetic lyrics. With a career spanning several decades, he has written numerous songs that have become classics in the Irish music scene. MacCarthy is highly respected for his ability to capture the essence of Irish life and emotion in his music. He has collaborated with many well-known artists and his songs have been covered by various musicians, solidifying his reputation as a prolific and influential figure in the music industry.

Liam Reilly was an Irish singer-songwriter known for his work as a member of the group Bagatelle, which was formed in 1978. Reilly's professional life was marked by his contributions to the band's music, where he showcased his talents as a vocalist and songwriter. His collaboration with fellow band members, including drummer Walter McConville, bass player Ken Doyle, and guitarist John O'Brien, resulted in the creation of memorable songs that resonated with audiences. Throughout his career, Reilly's musical pursuits left a lasting impact on the industry.

Robin McAuley is an accomplished Irish singer known for his work with McAuley Schenker Group, Grand Prix, Survivor, and Far Corporation. He has collaborated with Michael Schenker on various projects over the years and released a solo album titled Business As Usual in 1999. McAuley has been a member of Raiding the Rock Vault and the supergroup Black Swan. His versatile vocals have been featured on numerous albums, including the well-received Shake the World with Black Swan in 2020, which he considers a personal favorite.

Órla Fallon is a talented Irish singer and songwriter who gained recognition as a former member of the popular group Celtic Woman and the chamber choir Anúna. With a successful career in the music industry, she has showcased her versatile vocal abilities through various performances and recordings. Fallon's contributions to Celtic Woman and Anúna have solidified her reputation as a skilled musician with a passion for Irish music. Her professional journey reflects a dedication to her craft and a commitment to sharing her talents with audiences worldwide.

Laura Elizabeth Arabosa Izibor is an accomplished Irish recording artist, musician, and producer. She gained recognition early in her career by winning the 2FM Song Contest and receiving accolades at the 2006 Meteor Music Awards. Known for her captivating performances, Izibor has shared the stage with music legends such as Aretha Franklin, India Arie, Estelle, Maxwell, and John Legend. Her debut album, Let the Truth Be Told, showcased her talent and received critical acclaim. Additionally, she has showcased her acting skills on The CW's One Tree Hill.

Mary Coughlan is a renowned Irish singer known for her soulful and emotional voice. She has achieved critical acclaim for her performances across various music genres, including jazz, blues, and folk. Coughlan's career has spanned several decades, during which she has released numerous albums and singles that have resonated with audiences worldwide. With her unique style and powerful vocals, she has established herself as a leading figure in the Irish music scene and continues to captivate audiences with her compelling performances.

Mundy is an Irish singer-songwriter and the founder of the independent record label Camcor Records. With a successful career spanning several decades, he has garnered a loyal fan base both in Ireland and internationally. Known for his soulful vocals and heartfelt lyrics, Mundy has released multiple albums and singles that have received critical acclaim. His music blends elements of folk, rock, and pop, showcasing his versatility and talent as a musician. Mundy continues to captivate audiences with his captivating performances and timeless songwriting.

Derek Warfield is a prominent Irish singer, songwriter, and historian known for his contributions to Irish music and culture. He gained fame as a former member of the iconic musical group The Wolfe Tones, where he showcased his musical talents and passion for traditional Irish music. Throughout his career, Warfield has established himself as a respected figure in the music industry, captivating audiences with his powerful vocals, meaningful songwriting, and extensive knowledge of Irish history and heritage.

Róisín O is an accomplished Irish singer, songwriter, and musician known for her captivating performances and soulful voice. She is signed to the independent label 3ú Records and gained recognition with her debut album "The Secret Life of Blue" in 2012, which made a notable entry into the Irish charts. Produced by David Odlum, the album received praise for its evocative sound reminiscent of iconic artists like Joni Mitchell, Joanna Newsom, and Kate Bush. Róisín O's musical talent and collaborations with the Black Family band showcase her versatility and dedication to her craft.

Sinéad Lohan is an Irish singer and songwriter known for her captivating vocals and heartfelt lyrics. She gained recognition for her soulful folk-pop sound, blending acoustic melodies with introspective storytelling. Lohan's music has resonated with audiences worldwide, earning critical acclaim for her emotional depth and musical craftsmanship. Her body of work showcases a versatile range of styles, from tender ballads to upbeat anthems, demonstrating her talent for evoking raw, authentic emotions through her music. Lohan continues to inspire listeners with her distinctive voice and poignant songwriting.