Damien Dempsey was born and raised in the mid-1970s in Donaghmede. He trained as a boxer with his older brothers, competing for Dublin before committing himself to music. From his debut album in 2000 he formed a long-term, hugely successful working relationship with producer/musician John Reynolds. Several highly acclaimed chart-topping albums, countless sold-out shows, an award-winning documentary and a sell-out theatre show have cemented his status as one of the country’s most beloved artists.
After a seven year wait, Damien released double album Hold Your Joy in 2024 – undoubtedly the most complete body of work Dempsey has committed to tape in his entire career. He continues to turn to deeper wells of inspiration with plans already underway to follow that record with a traditional album.
From intimate stages to euphoria-filled rooms and fields, Damien’s live shows are legendary. Every time he steps foot onstage his main goal is to bring the energy of “a big singsong” to the venue believing strongly that communal singing is one of the best things you can ever do. Uncompromising, passionate and honest, Damien is one of modern Irish music’s greatest heroes.
