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Flogging Molly

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Band Timeline

1997

Formation and early years of Flogging Molly

Flogging Molly was formed in Los Angeles in 1997 by Irish vocalist Dave King, who had previously been the lead singer of the hard rock band Fastway. Dave King assembled a band that combined traditional Irish music with rock influences. The group started by playing weekly at Molly Malone's, a pub in Los Angeles, building a dedicated local following. Early members included violinist Bridget Regan, guitarist Ted Hutt, bassist Jeff Peters, and drummer Paul Crowder. They initially released a live album titled 'Alive Behind the Green Door,' establishing the band's signature sound and spirit.
2000

Release of debut album Swagger and first major tour

Flogging Molly released their debut studio album, 'Swagger,' on March 7, 2000, under SideOneDummy Records. This album marked the band's transition from performing locally to gaining broader recognition. Its blend of Celtic punk and rock resonated well with audiences and critics. That same year, the band joined the Vans Warped Tour, sharing the stage with well-known groups like Green Day and The Mighty Mighty Bosstones, gaining significant exposure and expanding their fan base beyond the Los Angeles club scene.
2002

Drunken Lullabies release and continued touring

On March 19, 2002, Flogging Molly released their second studio album, 'Drunken Lullabies.' The album further solidified their reputation in the Celtic punk genre with its energetic and heartfelt songs. It was later certified gold by the RIAA in 2009, a testament to its enduring popularity. The band returned to the Vans Warped Tour in 2003, performing alongside rising acts like The All-American Rejects and Dropkick Murphys, continuing to build momentum and attract a wider audience.
2004

Within a Mile of Home album success

Flogging Molly released their third studio album, 'Within a Mile of Home,' on September 14, 2004. The album debuted at number 20 on the Billboard 200, reflecting their growing commercial appeal. This release showcased their evolving sound and songwriting skill, blending traditional Irish music with punk rock influences. The band's ability to merge storytelling with energetic performances helped grow their fan base in the United States and abroad.
2006

Whiskey on a Sunday platinum success

In 2006, Flogging Molly released 'Whiskey on a Sunday,' an acoustic/live CD/DVD combo that captured the band's unique sound and career highlights. The release was successful, eventually earning a platinum certification by 2008. This project offered fans insight into the band's live energy and storytelling prowess, further elevating their reputation. The band also released an online-only EP called 'Complete Control Sessions' in 2007, maintaining their momentum and presence in the music scene.
2008

Float album and chart success

The band's fourth studio album, 'Float,' was released in 2008 and debuted at number 4 on the Billboard 200, marking their highest charting album to date. The album featured successful singles like 'Requiem for a Dying Song' and the title track 'Float,' which appeared on the Billboard Modern Rock charts. This period highlighted the band's growing mainstream acceptance while retaining their Celtic punk roots, underlining their ability to evolve musically while satisfying their core fan base.
2010

Live at the Greek Theatre release and notable performances

In March 2010, Flogging Molly released 'Live at the Greek Theatre,' a CD/DVD set capturing a career-spanning performance in Los Angeles from the previous year. This release served as both a celebration and documentation of their live concert experience, showcasing the band's connection with their audience. Additionally, they gained further recognition by appearing in the season premiere of the influential music television program 'Austin City Limits' in 2011, highlighting their prominence in the contemporary folk and rock scene.
2011

Release of Speed of Darkness on own label

In 2011, Flogging Molly released 'Speed of Darkness,' their fifth studio album and the first to be issued through their own record label, Borstal Beat Records. This move signaled a new level of independence and control over their music and production. The album continued their signature blend of Celtic punk, addressing social and personal themes with energetic and poignant songwriting. This era marked the band’s evolution into self-managed artists, allowing greater creative freedom.
2017

Life Is Good album and new label partnerships

After a six-year hiatus from new studio albums, Flogging Molly released 'Life Is Good' in 2017. This marked their first album under Vanguard Records and Spinefarm Records, introducing their music to potentially new audiences. The album preserved the band's characteristic Celtic punk style while reflecting maturity in songwriting and musical arrangements. Following the release, the band co-headlined a U.S. tour with Social Distortion in 2019, underscoring their enduring appeal and active presence in the touring circuit.
2021

Virtual performances and tours during pandemic

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Flogging Molly live-streamed a St. Patrick’s Day performance on March 17, 2021, from Whelan's Irish Pub in Dublin. This virtual event aimed to support the Sweet Relief COVID-19 Crew Fund by donating part of the ticket proceeds. Additionally, they co-headlined a tour with Violent Femmes later in 2021, demonstrating their adaptability and commitment to engaging with fans despite challenging circumstances in the live music industry. These efforts showcased the band's resilience and continued relevance.

Albums

flogging-molly_1st_album
Swagger
13 tracks
2000
flogging-molly_2nd_album
Drunken Lullabies
12 tracks
2002
flogging-molly_3rd_album
Within a Mile of Home
15 tracks
2004
flogging-molly_4th_album
Float
11 tracks
2008
flogging-molly_5th_album
Speed of Darkness
12 tracks
2011
flogging-molly_6th_album
Life Is Good
12 tracks
2017
flogging-molly_7th_album
Anthem
11 tracks
2022
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Members

Current

Name
Begin
Occupation

Matt Hensley

N/A

Dennis Casey

1999

Mike Alonso

N/A

Dave King

1996

Spencer Swain

N/A

Dennis Casey

N/A

Nathen Maxwell

N/A

Bridget Regan

N/A

History

Name
Begin
End
Occupation

Ted Hutt

N/A
N/A

Robert Schmidt

N/A
N/A

George Schwindt

N/A
N/A

Jeff Peters

N/A
N/A

Story of Flogging Molly

Flogging Molly: A Celtic Punk Powerhouse

Flogging Molly is a seven-piece Celtic punk band that emerged from the heart of Los Angeles in 1994. Led by the charismatic Irish vocalist Dave King, formerly of the hard rock band Fastway, they've carved their own path in the music world, blending traditional Irish music with a rebellious punk spirit. Their own record label, Borstal Beat Records, gives them complete creative control over their sound.

From Heavy Metal to Celtic Punk:

Dave King's musical journey is a testament to his versatility. He cut his teeth in the heavy metal scene, fronting the band Fastway alongside "Fast" Eddie Clarke of Motörhead fame. He then led the hard rock band Katmandu, featuring the legendary Mandy Meyer of Krokus on guitar. However, King's heart always pulled towards his Irish roots.

After a brief foray into solo work, King decided to embrace his passion for traditional Irish music. When his record label, Epic Records, resisted his desire to incorporate these elements, he walked away to forge his own destiny.

The Birth of Flogging Molly:

In 1993, King met the talented musicians who would become the core of Flogging Molly: violinist Bridget Regan, guitarist Ted Hutt, bassist Jeff Peters, and drummer Paul Crowder. Together, they started jamming a blend of Irish traditional music and rock 'n' roll, creating a unique sound that quickly gained a following.

Their weekly gigs at the Los Angeles pub Molly Malone's became legendary, building a loyal fanbase. During these early years, they crafted anthems like "Black Friday Rule" and "Selfish Man," laying the foundation for their signature sound.

A Legacy of Celtic Punk Anthems:

Flogging Molly's music is a potent mix of raw energy, infectious melodies, and a deep connection to their Irish heritage. Their live performances are renowned for their high-octane energy, captivating audiences with their spirited anthems and powerful stage presence.

From their early days in Los Angeles to their global success, Flogging Molly has established itself as a force to be reckoned with in the world of Celtic punk. Their music continues to resonate with fans worldwide, celebrating their unique blend of Irish tradition and rock 'n' roll spirit.

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