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Music genre

Celtic punk

Celtic punk is a music genre that emerged in United Kingdom in the 1980s. It is usually classed as a form of folk punk. Explore key artists and related styles.

About Celtic punk

Celtic punk is a music genre that emerged in United Kingdom in the 1980s. It is usually classed as a form of folk punk.

Among the best-known names in the style are The Pogues, Dropkick Murphys and Flogging Molly.

From Wikipedia

Celtic punk is punk rock mixed with traditional Celtic music. Celtic punk bands often play traditional Celtic folk songs, contemporary/political folk songs, and original compositions. Common themes in Celtic punk music include politics, Celtic culture (particularly Gaelic culture) and identity, heritage, religion, drinking and working class pride.

The genre was popularised in the 1980s by the Pogues. It is considered part of the broader folk punk genre, although that term is often used in North America for acoustic forms of punk rock rather than a mixture of traditional folk music and punk rock. The genre was reinforced in the 2000s by bands such as Dropkick Murphys and Flogging Molly.

Genre family tree

Parent genres (↑) and subgenres (↓) of Celtic punk.

Key artists

  • The Pogues
  • Dropkick Murphys
  • Flogging Molly

Frequently asked questions

What is Celtic punk?

Celtic punk is a music genre that emerged in United Kingdom in the 1980s. It is usually classed as a form of folk punk.

Where and when did Celtic punk originate?

Celtic punk originated in United Kingdom in the 1980s.

Who are famous Celtic punk artists?

The Pogues, Dropkick Murphys and Flogging Molly.

Sources & credits