The Mighty Doonans have a deserved reputation for their imaginative and innovative interpretations of traditional and contemporary songs. With brass, drums, keyboards, electric guitars and amazing vocals, they have the ability to blend different genres of music and dance (and the occasional joke) into their act. This leads to thoroughly entertaining performances that delight audiences across the ‘folk world’.
The original ‘Doonan Family Band’ regulars; Mick & Kevin Doonan, Phil Murray & Stu Luckley, are joined by various family members, Rosie & Frances Doonan (Mick’s daughters), Jamie Luckley (Stu’s son) a great old friend Ian (Walter) Fairbairn and occasionally joined by Ben Murray (Phil’s son) which all constitute ‘The Mighty Doonans’.
The original ‘Doonan Family Band ‘ have been part of the British folk scene for over 40 years. John Doonan , father of Mick and Kevin, was the godfather of Irish music, a World Champion Piccolo Player.
The Doonans provide an Irish treatment of rock and soul, a rock treatment of Irish songs and all the energetic bursts of Irish dancing from the Doonettes (another thing you could say back then). I used to call them Geordie-Irish but at least one of the women who danced with them assured me she was a proper Mackem (and therefore a Sunderland supporter).
The Mighty Doonans continue to deliver their traditions and influences along with powerhouse arrangements and sensitive interpretations of a wide variety of material. As well as the unique and expert blend of musicianship, the bands secret weapon is their ability to communicate and engage with any audience anywhere. Their shows can be unpredictable but are always uncompromisingly entertaining.
