Traditional Irish music has various styles, but the main characteristic of Irish music is its lyrical, soothing sound. Traditional Irish music is firmly rooted in Ireland even today, because music is and always has been such an important part of Irish culture.

The ancient Celts were a people with an oral culture, and they passed their social mores, religion, and history to the next generation by using stories and songs. Later, when Ireland had been conquered by the English and forbidden to speak in their own tongue, the Irish turned to their music as a way to keep in touch with their Irish culture and heritage. Over time, various rebellions also inspired Irish songs that helped raise passions and build morale. Many of these Irish songs are still sung today.

Irish folk music can be serious, but there are many popular Irish songs that have lighter themes. Many Irish songs have been sung about drinking, from the unapologetic “The Moonshiner” to the sly rascal in “The Wild Rover,” to the man in the Irish song, “Whiskey in the Jar” who decides that whiskey is the only faithful companion. It’s amusing to note that the Irish drinking song is usually less of a cautionary tale and more of a celebration.

Beyond traditional Irish music and Irish folk music, today’s Irish musicians have proven themselves internationally. Consider Van Morrison, who was born in Belfast, and the punk band, the Undertones. And of course, we can’t forget about the most popular of the Irish music exports—U2.