(11/28) For over 60 years, The Chieftains have played a major role in introducing Irish traditional music to global audiences. Founded in 1962 by lead singer Paddy Moloney, the band became one of the most famous Irish music groups in history. From collaborating with some incredibly famous names in music to performing in historic venues across the world, The Chieftains have cemented their status as icons of Irish music.
Let's have a look at some key moments in The Chieftains' journey to international fame and why their music made such an impact.
Claddagh Records
The Chieftains' story started when they recorded their first album with Claddagh Records, a label founded by Garech Browne in 1959. Paddy Moloney and the group recorded their debut album in just five days, all while still working day jobs, so this album really started their journey!
Garech Browne's support and the backing of Claddagh Records helped The Chieftains gain more attention, and they soon began attracting listeners both in Ireland and even internationally.
Breakthrough with Barry Lyndon and Winning Group of the Year
A turning point for The Chieftains came in 1975. That year, they won Melody Maker's Group of the Year award, beating out major rock bands like Led Zeppelin and Queen. What really boosted their profile was their work on the soundtrack for Stanley Kubrick's film Barry Lyndon. Their music featured prominently in the movie, and the success of the film brought The Chieftains into the international spotlight.
As a result, they began selling out major venues, including the Royal Albert Hall, further solidifying their status as Irish music icons.
Their Historic Performance at the Great Wall of China
In 1983, The Chieftains became the first Western group to perform at the Great Wall of China. Think about that for a second, The Chieftains in China! This historic event showed the band's global reach and their desire to bring Irish music to every corner of the world. During their performance, they even collaborated with Chinese musicians, blending Irish and Chinese musical traditions in a really memorable way. The mix of Irish and Chinese instruments really makes a unique combination that's not often heard.
Each of their tracks can be heard in their album "The Chieftains in China" (1984)
Irish Music in Space
It wasn't long before The Chieftains' music reached new heights (literally). In 2011, Astronaut Cady Coleman actually managed to take a tin whistle belonging to Paddy Moloney and a flute from Matt Molloy to the International Space Station. During her six-month mission, Coleman played these instruments in orbit!
Collaborating with Famous Artists
One of the reasons The Chieftains became so well-known was their collaborations with famous artists from other genres. Over the years, they worked with big names like Mick Jagger, Sting, Dolly Parton, Sinead O'Connor, and Luciano Pavarotti. These collaborations brought Irish music to the international side and helped introduce the sound of The Chieftains to new audiences.
One of their most important collaborations though was with Van Morrison. After releasing many successful records during the '70s and '80s, The Chieftains recorded an album with Morrison in 1988: "Irish Heartbeat" which went on to garner critical acclaim! This album led to the group working with many of the other famous artists listed.
Their ability to blend Irish traditional music with other styles, while staying true to their roots, made them stand out and in turn, brought them global recognition.
Paddy Moloney's Legacy
Sadly, Paddy Moloney passed away on October 11, 2021, at the ripe age of 83. His leadership and passion for Irish music undoubtedly helped shape The Chieftains into the internationally respected group they became. Under his guidance, the band produced over 40 albums and performed around the world, bringing Irish music to millions of listeners.
The Chieftains' Impact
The Chieftains' dedication to Irish music, their collaborations with famous artists, and their historic performances around the world made them one of the most influential Irish music groups of all time. They introduced traditional Irish sounds to new audiences and helped preserve the culture and heritage of Irish music for future generations.
Through their six decades of music, The Chieftains brought a piece of Irish culture to the world, creating a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire for years to come.
