Irish traditional musician Dónal Lunny dies at the age of 79. Sources describe him as a key figure in the revival and growth of Irish traditional music, and as a founding member of several influential bands, including The Bothy Band, Planxty, and Moving Hearts. BBC News and RTE News both present him as one of Ireland’s best-known musicians, while IrishExaminer.com stresses his long-standing central role in folk and traditional music since the 1960s.
Some outlets provide additional personal detail. Irish Mirror says Lunny dies in St James’s Hospital after a cancer battle and includes the description of him as a “genius”. Irish Independent and Belfast Telegraph note his death and legacy but, based on the provided summaries, do not add further specifics. IrishExaminer.com also highlights Lunny’s wider collaborations beyond traditional music, naming artists including U2, Kate Bush, Sinéad O’Connor, Elvis Costello, and Van Morrison.
