Luke Kelly (1940-1984) was a folk singer/songwriter and musician from Dublin, Ireland who is perhaps best known as one of the founders of the famed Irish folk band The Dubliners in 1962. A fervent left wing activist in Irish political youth movements in the 1960s, many of Kelly's performances often derive their edge and emotionality from his feelings towards the shifting political climate in his country. In 1961, Luke Kelly formed The Dubliners with the musicians he was already playing with at local pubs throughout Dublin, and would soon grow to become one of the city's most revered Irish folk acts. Despite his untimely death in 1984, Luke Kelly had already become Irish musical icon, particularly for Irish youth who were roused and inspired by the musician's politically-charged persona and music.
