Ireland might be known for its rolling green hills and warm cups of tea, but when it comes to music, we’ve also played host to some of the biggest names in showbiz history. From Beatles mania to Beyoncé’s fireworks, the island has seen unforgettable performances that left crowds hoarse and hearts full while playing live in Ireland.
Let’s take a trip down memory lane, and maybe dust off those dancing shoes, as we look at some of the biggest bands and artists who’ve toured in Ireland, with a few cracking stories that still make fans smile.
The Beatles Bring the Beat to Belfast and Dublin
It was 1963 when Beatlemania rolled into town. The Fab Four played just a handful of gigs in Ireland, Dublin and Belfast being the lucky cities, but the hype was enormous. Fans fainted, police battled crowd surges, and John Lennon reportedly said the Irish crowd was “mad as hatters, in the best way.” After the show in Belfast, some fans followed the band all the way back to the airport—and nearly beat them there!
U2 Live in Ireland: Homegrown Heroes Turned Global Giants
Could any list about gigs in Ireland skip U2? Not likely. The Dublin lads have gone from playing tiny venues in the 70s to filling stadiums like Croke Park and the Aviva. Their homecoming shows are part music, part national holiday. It’s Bono, after all. Love him or roll your eyes, the man knows how to hold a crowd. In 2009, U2’s 360° Tour featured a custom-built stage called “The Claw.” It was so massive it took four days to assemble in Dublin, and could be seen from blocks away.
Bruce Springsteen: Ireland’s Favourite Adopted Son
The Boss has always had a deep connection with his Irish fans. His gigs here are more like spiritual experiences, with punters belting out every word like gospel. Whether it’s the RDS or Nowlan Park, Springsteen brings energy, heart, and yes, three-hour-long sets. No one’s complaining. In 2012, his Cork show was so loud that noise complaints came in from across the River Lee—one local joked, “Didn’t need a ticket, just opened the window!”
Tina Turner: Simply the Best in Ireland
Tina’s roaring vocals echoed across Irish arenas in the 90s. She was a powerhouse on stage, proving age is just a number. Her 1996 gig at The Point Depot is still talked about, part concert, part electrifying dance-off. At one Dublin show, her high heels snapped mid-song. However, true to form, she kicked them off and danced barefoot. The crowd lost it.
Ed Sheeran: Ginger, Guitar, and Guinness
Ed Sheeran’s charm and singalong anthems have struck a special chord with Irish fans. His 2018 Divide Tour had him playing across the country, from Dublin to Galway to Cork. He even learned a few Gaeilge phrases to charm the crowd. Mission accomplished. He once surprised fans by hopping on stage with a trad band in a Galway pub. Just walked in and joined the session like a local. He is often found busking in various streets throughout Ireland, interacting with fans with amazing connection.
Live in Ireland: Honourable Mentions
Some other absolutely massive artists have made their appearance over here in Ireland. The Rolling Stones have played Ireland many times, and Mick Jagger still struts across Irish stages like he’s twenty-five. Madonna, when her 2004 Slane Castle gig drew fans from across Europe. Fleetwood Mac, with their harmonies bringing pure magic to Dublin’s 3Arena.
From global rockstars to pop icons, Ireland continues to be a must-stop destination for the world’s biggest tours. And let’s be honest—there’s just something special about seeing your favourite act with a pint in hand and a sky full of Irish stars above.
Rock on, Ireland.
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