Dropkick Murphys

Dropkick Murphys are an American Celtic punk band formed in Quincy, Massachusetts, part of the Greater Boston area with which they remain closely identified. Combining hardcore punk energy with traditional Irish folk instrumentation such as bagpipes, tin whistle and accordion, they built a sound rooted in the working-class, union culture of their home city, drawing on influences like The Clash, The Pogues, The Dubliners and Ramones.

The band's lineup has evolved over the years around founding bassist and vocalist Ken Casey, with a rotating cast of singers and instrumentalists contributing to their raucous, anthemic style. Their music blends high-energy punk instrumentation with strong group chants and lyrics rooted in social commentary, Irish-American heritage and blue-collar pride. Songs like «I'm Shipping Up to Boston», «Rose Tattoo» and «The State of Massachusetts» became signature tracks, while covers and reworkings of traditional songs such as «Tessie» and «Kiss Me, I'm Shitfaced» reflect their deep ties to Boston sports culture and pub tradition.

Dropkick Murphys are widely credited as one of the most recognizable bands in the Celtic punk genre, known for their politically outspoken stance in support of labor unions and working-class causes, including selling only union-made merchandise in the US. Their annual St. Patrick's Day shows in Boston have become a beloved tradition, and tracks like «Johnny, I Hardly Knew Ya» and «Worker's Song» showcase their commitment to folk storytelling within a punk framework.