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Dropkick Murphys

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Band Timeline

1996

Formation of Dropkick Murphys and Early Lineup

Dropkick Murphys were formed in Quincy, Massachusetts in 1996. The initial band members included lead vocalist Mike McColgan, bassist and vocalist Ken Casey, guitarist Rick Barton, and drummer Jeff Erna. The band was named after Dr. John 'Dropkick' Murphy, who ran an alcohol detoxification facility. They began playing in a friend's barbershop basement and quickly started building a local following through live shows. Their music combined elements of punk rock with Celtic influences, setting the foundation for their distinct sound.
1997

First EP and Signing with Hellcat Records

In 1997, Dropkick Murphys released their debut EP titled 'Boys on the Docks,' which helped them gain attention in the punk community. That same year, they toured as an opening act for the established punk band The Mighty Mighty Bosstones, which boosted their exposure. They were signed by Hellcat Records, an independent punk label, and contributed to the 'Give 'Em the Boot' compilation album. This marked the beginning of a strong partnership with Hellcat Records, under which they would release their first full-length albums.
1998

Release of Debut Album 'Do or Die' and Lead Singer Change

In 1998, Dropkick Murphys released their first full-length album, 'Do or Die,' produced by Lars Frederiksen of Rancid. This album was the only one to feature the original lineup with Mike McColgan as the lead vocalist. Midway through a US tour, McColgan left the band to pursue a career as a Boston firefighter, leading to a significant change in the band's vocal dynamic. This transition marked the start of Ken Casey taking on a more prominent vocal role.
2000

Al Barr Joins as Co-Lead Vocalist

Following McColgan's departure, Al Barr was introduced as the new co-lead vocalist alongside Ken Casey. This shift solidified the band's vocal identity and helped maintain their momentum. With this lineup, the band continued to develop their sound and build a strong fan base through relentless touring and live performances, particularly around Boston and the East Coast.
2004

Breakthrough with 'Tessie' and Growing Popularity

In 2004, Dropkick Murphys released the single 'Tessie,' a tribute to the Boston Red Sox fan club known as the Royal Rooters. The song gained mainstream recognition, coinciding with the Red Sox ending an 86-year World Series championship drought. 'Tessie' became one of the band's biggest hits and cemented their cultural connection to Boston. This success increased their national exposure and highlighted their unique blend of punk rock with local pride.
2005

Release of 'The Warrior's Code' Featuring 'I'm Shipping Up to Boston'

'The Warrior's Code' was released in 2005 as the band's final album under Hellcat Records. It featured the song 'I'm Shipping Up to Boston,' which later became the band's most successful single. The song gained tremendous popularity after its inclusion in the 2006 film 'The Departed,' leading to widespread recognition beyond the punk scene. This track achieved platinum status, becoming a signature anthem for both the band and the city of Boston.
2007

Transition to Born & Bred Label and 'The Meanest of Times' Album

In 2007, Dropkick Murphys established their own imprint label, Born & Bred, partnering with Alternative Distribution Alliance for releases. That year, they released the album 'The Meanest of Times,' which debuted at number 20 on the Billboard charts. The album included the single 'The State of Massachusetts,' continuing their trend of songs rooted in regional identity. This period marked a phase of greater creative control and independence in their music production and distribution.
2011

Success with 'Going Out in Style' Album

'Going Out in Style' was released in 2011 and represented the band's highest-charting album at that time, debuting at number 6 on the Billboard charts. The album was a commercial and critical success, showcasing the band's matured sound and storytelling ability. Their consistent touring and dedicated fanbase contributed to the album's success. The album contained themes of working-class struggles and perseverance, resonating with a broad audience.
2013

Release of 'Signed and Sealed in Blood'

The eighth studio album 'Signed and Sealed in Blood' came out in 2013 and debuted at number 9 on the Billboard charts. The album featured notable singles such as 'The Season's Upon Us,' a Christmas-themed song that became one of their highest-charting singles, and 'Rose Tattoo.' The album further demonstrated the band's ability to blend punk rock energy with Celtic melodies and meaningful lyrics, solidifying their place in the punk rock and Celtic music scenes.
2017

'11 Short Stories of Pain & Glory' Album Release

On January 6, 2017, Dropkick Murphys released their ninth album, '11 Short Stories of Pain & Glory.' The album debuted at number 8 and later climbed to number 2 on the Billboard charts, marking the band's highest placement ever. The album was praised for its emotional depth and musical diversity, reflecting on personal and societal themes. It combined the band's signature Celtic punk style with introspective lyrics, appealing to longtime fans and attracting new listeners alike.
2021

'Turn Up That Dial' Album Release

The band's tenth album, 'Turn Up That Dial,' was released on April 30, 2021. Continuing their streak of successful albums, it showcased their energetic and anthemic style, reinforcing their influence in the Celtic punk genre. Despite challenges in the music industry and global circumstances, Dropkick Murphys maintained their creative output and connection with fans through this release.
2022

'This Machine Still Kills Fascists' Album and Al Barr Hiatus

On September 30, 2022, Dropkick Murphys released their eleventh album, 'This Machine Still Kills Fascists.' Notably, this was the first album since their debut to not feature longtime co-lead vocalist Al Barr, who went on hiatus from the band that year. The album continued their tradition of socially and politically charged themes, reflecting the band's commitment to activism and working-class solidarity through their music.
2023

'Okemah Rising' Album and Continued Evolution

The twelfth album, 'Okemah Rising,' was released on May 12, 2023. Like its predecessor, it was created and released without Al Barr. The album continued to expand the band's musical and thematic horizons, exploring new sounds while staying true to their core style. The band demonstrated resilience and adaptability in continuing their legacy amid lineup changes and evolving musical landscapes.
2025

'For the People' Album Release Featuring Al Barr

On July 4, 2025, Dropkick Murphys released their thirteenth album, 'For the People.' This album marked the return of Al Barr, rejoining the band after his hiatus. The release was celebrated by fans as a homecoming and signified a renewed chapter for the band. The album reinforced the band's dedication to their roots, social justice themes, and their unique Celtic punk sound that has defined their career for nearly three decades.

Albums

dropkick-murphys_1st_album
Do or Die
16 tracks
1998
dropkick-murphys_2nd_album
The Gang’s All Here
16 tracks
1999
dropkick-murphys_3rd_album
Mob Mentality
12 tracks
2000
dropkick-murphys_4th_album
Sing Loud, Sing Proud!
16 tracks
2001
dropkick-murphys_5th_album
Blackout
14 tracks
2003
dropkick-murphys_6th_album
The Warrior’s Code
14 tracks
2005
dropkick-murphys_7th_album
The Meanest of Times
16 tracks
2007
dropkick-murphys_8th_album
Going Out in Style
13 tracks
2011
dropkick-murphys_9th_album
Signed and Sealed in Blood
12 tracks
2013
dropkick-murphys_10th_album
11 Short Stories of Pain & Glory
11 tracks
2017
dropkick-murphys_11th_album
Turn Up That Dial
11 tracks
2021
dropkick-murphys_12th_album
This Machine Still Kills Fascists
10 tracks
2022
dropkick-murphys_13th_album
Okemah Rising
10 tracks
2023
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Members

Current

Name
Begin
Occupation

Jeff DaRosa

N/A

Al Barr

1998

Tim Brennan

1996

Matt Kelly

1997

Ken Casey

1996

James Lynch

2000

Scruffy Wallace

1996

History

Name
Begin
End
Occupation

Mike McColgan

1996
1998

Rick Barton

1996
2000

Marc Orrell

2000
2008

Story of Dropkick Murphys

Dropkick Murphys: From Boston Streets to Global Stage

Dropkick Murphys, the Boston-bred Celtic punk rock outfit, emerged from the streets of Quincy, Massachusetts in 1996. Since then, they've become synonymous with rowdy energy, Irish-infused anthems, and a dedication to their home city. Their only constant member, bassist and vocalist Ken Casey, has led the band through its evolution, encompassing a revolving door of talented musicians. The current lineup boasts drummer Matt Kelly, vocalist Al Barr, guitarist James Lynch, and multi-instrumentalists Tim Brennan and Jeff DaRosa.

The band's early days were forged in the crucible of the independent punk scene, with Hellcat Records serving as their launchpad. Through five albums and relentless touring, they built a loyal fanbase in Boston, particularly during their annual St. Patrick's Day week shows. Their 2004 single "Tessie" marked their first taste of mainstream success, becoming one of their most recognizable tracks.

Their final release on Hellcat Records, 2005's "The Warrior's Code," contained a song that would propel them to global stardom. "I'm Shipping Up to Boston," featured in the 2006 film "The Departed," achieved platinum status and remains a fan favorite. The song perfectly encapsulates the band's raw energy and emotional depth.

Their signature sound, characterized by powerful vocals, driving rhythms, and a blend of punk rock aggression and traditional Irish music, fuels their legendary live performances. Their energetic shows are known for crowd surfing, mosh pits, and a sense of camaraderie that transcends cultural boundaries.

In 2007, Dropkick Murphys established their own record label, Born & Bred, distributed by Alternative Distribution Alliance. This move solidified their independence and allowed them to control their creative direction. From their humble beginnings in Quincy, Dropkick Murphys have become a global force, inspiring a generation of fans with their infectious energy and undeniable talent. Their story is a testament to the enduring power of raw, honest music.

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