History of Dropkick Murphys in Timeline
Dropkick Murphys are an American Celtic punk band from Quincy, Massachusetts, formed in 1996. Known for their energetic music blending punk rock with Irish folk influences, the band's current lineup includes founding member and co-lead vocalist Ken Casey, along with Matt Kelly, Al Barr, James Lynch, Tim Brennan, Jeff DaRosa, and Kevin Rheault. Despite lineup changes throughout the years, Dropkick Murphys have remained a prominent force in the Celtic punk genre.
1996: Early Days and Naming
Dropkick Murphys was formed in Quincy, Massachusetts in 1996, taking their name from Dr. John "Dropkick" Murphy's alcohol-detoxification facility. They began playing in a barbershop basement and soon started touring.
1996: Dropkick Murphys Formation
Dropkick Murphys, an American Celtic punk band, was formed in Quincy, Massachusetts in 1996.
1997: Signing with Hellcat Records
After releasing a series of EPs, Dropkick Murphys were signed by Hellcat Records in 1997.
1997: Tour with Mighty Mighty Bosstones
Dropkick Murphys got their first big break in 1997 when they were selected as the opening act for the Mighty Mighty Bosstones' tour supporting Let's Face It.
1998: Do or Die Release
Dropkick Murphys released their first full-length album, Do or Die, in 1998. The album was produced by Lars Frederiksen of Rancid.
1998: Al Barr Joins Dropkick Murphys
Following Mike McColgan's departure, Al Barr, lead singer of The Bruisers, auditioned for Dropkick Murphys and was offered the job. His first release with the band was the 1998 single "Curse of a Fallen Soul".
March 9, 1999: The Gang's All Here Release
Dropkick Murphys released their second studio album and first with Al Barr, The Gang's All Here, on March 9, 1999. The album showcased a hardcore-street punk sound with Irish influences.
2000: Rick Barton's Departure and Lineup Changes
Guitarist Rick Barton left Dropkick Murphys during the recording sessions for their third album in 2000. The band subsequently added James Lynch, Marc Orrell, Ryan Foltz, and Robbie "Spicy McHaggis" Mederios to their lineup.
February 9, 2001: Sing Loud, Sing Proud! Released
On February 9, 2001, Dropkick Murphys released their album "Sing Loud, Sing Proud!", marking a development in their sound and showcasing their new lineup.
September 2002: Live on St. Patrick's Day From Boston, MA Released
In September 2002, Dropkick Murphys released their first live album, "Live on St. Patrick's Day From Boston, MA", recorded during their annual St. Patrick's Day weekend performance at the Avalon Ballroom.
2002: Mike McColgan Forms Street Dogs
In 2002, former Dropkick Murphys vocalist Mike McColgan formed the band Street Dogs, with a lineup that also initially included former Dropkick Murphys drummer Jeff Erna.
2002: Blackout Bonus DVD Features Live Clips
The "Blackout" album included a bonus DVD that featured two live clips filmed during the band's 2002 St. Patrick's Day shows, giving fans a taste of their live performances.
June 10, 2003: Blackout Released
Dropkick Murphys released their fourth studio album, "Blackout", on June 10, 2003, featuring the singles "Walk Away" and "Fields of Athenry".
November 2003: Dropkick Murphys Perform at TD Garden
In November 2003, Dropkick Murphys performed "Time to Go" live at the TD Garden in Boston during intermission at a Boston Bruins game.
2003: Lineup Changes and New Additions
Following the "Sing Loud, Sing Proud" tour in early 2003, Dropkick Murphys saw the departure of McHaggis and Foltz. Scruffy Wallace joined the band as the new piper, and Tim Brennan was recruited to replace Foltz, initially playing accordion.
2003: Street Dogs Release Debut Album "Savin Hill"
Street Dogs, fronted by former Dropkick Murphys vocalist Mike McColgan, released their debut album, "Savin Hill", in 2003.
March 2004: On the Road With the Dropkick Murphys DVD Release
Dropkick Murphys released their DVD, "On the Road With the Dropkick Murphys", in March 2004, featuring behind-the-scenes footage and live performances.
2004: "Tessie" Release
Dropkick Murphys released "Tessie" in 2004, marking their first mainstream hit and one of their biggest charting singles.
2004: Dropkick Murphys Release "Tessie"
For the 2004 baseball season, Dropkick Murphys released their rendition of the century-old Boston Red Sox fan anthem, "Tessie".
January 28, 2005: Release of single for Andrew K. Farrar, Jr.
On January 28, 2005, Dropkick Murphys released a two-song CD single in memory of Sgt. Andrew K. Farrar, Jr., a fan who was killed in Iraq. The proceeds from the single were dedicated to the Sgt. Andrew Farrar Memorial Fund, reflecting the band's support for military families.
June 21, 2005: The Warrior's Code Released
Dropkick Murphys released their fifth studio album, "The Warrior's Code", on June 21, 2005, which debuted at number 49 on the album charts, their highest chart debut at the time.
2005: The Warrior's Code Release
Dropkick Murphys released The Warrior's Code, their final album with Hellcat Records, in 2005.
2005: Singles Collection Volume 2 and Rock Against Bush Contribution
Dropkick Murphys released their "Singles Collection Volume 2", featuring B-sides and unreleased material, and contributed the song "We Got the Power" to the compilation album "Rock Against Bush, Vol. 2".
2005: Dropkick Murphys at "Fever Pitch" Premiere
Dropkick Murphys were invited to the premiere of the movie "Fever Pitch", which was held at Fenway Park, where their music video for "Tessie" was filmed.
2005: "Time to Go" Featured in Video Games
Dropkick Murphys' song "Time to Go" was included in the soundtracks for the video games "Tony Hawk's Underground" and "NHL 2005", expanding their reach to a wider audience.
2005: "Tessie" Featured in "Fever Pitch" and "MVP Baseball 2005"
Dropkick Murphys' version of "Tessie" was featured in the major motion picture "Fever Pitch" and the video game "MVP Baseball 2005".
2006: "I'm Shipping Up to Boston" in "The Departed"
Dropkick Murphys' song "I'm Shipping Up to Boston", featuring lyrics from a Woody Guthrie poem, was prominently featured in Martin Scorsese's film "The Departed", garnering the band significant mainstream recognition.
2007: "I'm Shipping Up to Boston" Becomes Red Sox Anthem
"I'm Shipping Up to Boston" became the walk-up song for Boston Red Sox closer Jonathan Papelbon during the 2007 season and was performed live by the band during the team's victory parade.
2007: The Meanest of Times Release
Dropkick Murphys released The Meanest of Times in 2007, their first album on their own imprint label, Born & Bred. It debuted at No. 20 on the Billboard charts.
January 2008: Marc Orrell Leaves, New Members Join
Guitarist Marc Orrell departed Dropkick Murphys after eight years, leading to Tim Brennan becoming a full-time guitarist and the introduction of multi-instrumentalist Jeff DaRosa to the band.
July 10, 2008: Live Album Recording at LeLacheur Park
On July 10, 2008, Dropkick Murphys performed at LeLacheur Park in Lowell, Massachusetts, and announced that the show was being recorded for their next live album.
2008: Music Video for "Tomorrow's Industry"
In 2008, Dropkick Murphys shot a promotional music video for their song "Tomorrow's Industry." The video supported United Healthcare Workers East and Massachusetts hospitals advocating for free and fair union elections, emphasizing the band's commitment to social justice causes.
April 22, 2009: Dropkick Murphys Perform with Bruce Springsteen
On April 22, 2009, the Dropkick Murphys joined Bruce Springsteen & the E Street Band on stage in Boston for his Working on a Dream Tour. They performed "Glory Days" and "American Land". During the show, guitarist Tim Brennan proposed to his girlfriend Diana onstage. This memorable event was followed by a performance of the Springsteen song "So Young And in Love".
2009: Stephanie Dougherty Departs Band
Stephanie Dougherty, who had been an unofficial member of Dropkick Murphys and toured with them, departed the band in 2009.
January 1, 2010: Performance at NHL Winter Classic
On January 1, 2010, the Dropkick Murphys performed "I'm Shipping Up to Boston" before the Boston Bruins–Philadelphia Flyers NHL Winter Classic at Boston's Fenway Park. This performance was part of a significant sporting event in Boston.
March 16, 2010: Release of Live on Lansdowne, Boston MA
On March 16, 2010, the Dropkick Murphys released their second live album, Live on Lansdowne, Boston MA. The album, which featured the band's first full-length live DVD, debuted at No. 25 on the U.S. charts, marking it as their second-highest-charting album at the time.
December 2010: "The Warrior's Code" Featured in The Fighter
In December 2010, the Dropkick Murphys' song "The Warrior's Code" was featured in the Academy Award-nominated film The Fighter, starring Mark Wahlberg, Christian Bale, and Amy Adams. The film tells the story of boxer Micky Ward, who appears on the album cover and is the subject of the song.
February 22, 2011: Support for Wisconsin Workers
On February 22, 2011, Dropkick Murphys released their song "Take 'Em Down" from the album Going Out in Style on their website in support of Wisconsin workers' rights. They also created a limited edition T-shirt to benefit the Workers' Rights Emergency Response Fund.
March 1, 2011: Release of Going Out in Style Album
On March 1, 2011, the Dropkick Murphys released their seventh studio album, Going Out in Style, which debuted at number 6 on the Billboard 200, marking it as the highest position ever for a Dropkick Murphys album. It sold 43,259 copies in its first week and featured guest appearances by Bruce Springsteen, among others.
August 13, 2011: Solidarity with CWA and IBEW Strike
On August 13, 2011, Dropkick Murphys issued a statement of solidarity with the 45,000 Communications Workers of America (CWA) and International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) who were on strike from Verizon Communications, Inc., showcasing their support for labor rights.
September 2011: Shamrock-N-Roll Festival Tour
In September 2011, Dropkick Murphys embarked on an extensive tour following the release of their album Going Out in Style, which included the Shamrock-N-Roll Festival. The tour featured opening acts such as Chuck Ragan, the Mahones, and the Parkington Sisters, and included boxing demonstrations by Mickey Ward.
2011: Going Out in Style Release
Dropkick Murphys released Going Out in Style in 2011, which debuted at No. 6, their highest-charting album at the time.
March 13, 2012: Release of Going Out in Style: Fenway Park Bonus Edition
On March 13, 2012, Dropkick Murphys released Going Out in Style: Fenway Park Bonus Edition. This release included the full 2011 studio album along with an eighteen-track live album recorded at Fenway Park in 2011, offering fans a special edition with live performances.
March 18, 2012: Intimate Concert at Brighton Music Hall
On March 18, 2012, Dropkick Murphys performed a very intimate show at Brighton Music Hall in Boston for an audience of only 330. The band played 37 songs, including the entire Do or Die album and many older tracks not performed in years.
March 20, 2012: Release of "Sunday Hardcore Matinee" Single
On March 20, 2012, Dropkick Murphys released "Sunday Hardcore Matinee", the third single from their album Going Out in Style. It was issued as a limited-edition vinyl seven-inch with only 1,000 copies, featuring a live version of "Broken Hymns" as the B-side.
July 1, 2012: Announcement of Eighth Studio Album Completion
On July 1, 2012, Dropkick Murphys announced during a performance that they had completed their eighth studio album. The announcement was made during their summer tour, where they began playing new songs like "Shark Attack", "Rose Tattoo", and "Road Rise".
August 24, 2012: Eighth Studio Album Details Revealed
On August 24, 2012, Dropkick Murphys revealed on Facebook that their eighth studio album was complete and that its title and artwork would be announced the following week. This marked a significant moment in the band's ongoing musical journey.
August 31, 2012: Announcement of New Album Title: Signed and Sealed in Blood
On August 31, 2012, Dropkick Murphys announced through their social network pages that their new album would be titled Signed and Sealed in Blood, set for release on January 8, 2013. This title comes from lyrics in the first single, "Rose Tattoo".
November 7, 2012: Release of "Rose Tattoo" Music Video
On November 7, 2012, Dropkick Murphys released the music video for "Rose Tattoo", the first single from their upcoming album Signed and Sealed in Blood. The video helped build anticipation for the album's release.
December 18, 2012: Release of "The Season's Upon Us" Single
On December 18, 2012, Dropkick Murphys released "The Season's Upon Us" as the second single from their album Signed and Sealed in Blood. The single became one of the band's highest-charting singles, adding to the album's success.
2012: Dropkick Murphys' Comment on Papelbon's Song Use
After Papelbon's departure from the Red Sox, Dropkick Murphys expressed their opinion that he should no longer use "I'm Shipping Up to Boston" as his walk-up song, considering it a "Boston song.".
2013: Signed and Sealed in Blood Release
Dropkick Murphys released their eighth studio album, Signed and Sealed in Blood in 2013. It debuted at No. 9 on the Billboard charts.
January 2014: Release of FM359's Debut Album
In January 2014, former Dropkick Murphys members Mike McColgan and Rick Barton released their debut album, Truth, Love and Liberty, with the group FM359. This marked the first collaboration between McColgan and Barton in over fifteen years.
October 19, 2014: Memorial performance for Maj. Michael Donahue
On October 19, 2014, Dropkick Murphys performed a surprise set at the memorial ceremony for Maj. Michael Donahue, a fan who was killed in Afghanistan. The band played his favorite song, 'The Green Fields of France,' honoring his memory.
November 16, 2014: Tour Bus Accident in Texas
On November 16, 2014, following a performance in San Antonio, Texas, the Dropkick Murphys' tour bus was involved in a tragic accident near Austin. A pedestrian ran onto the highway in front of the bus, resulting in a fatal incident that police suspect was a suicide. The band, shaken by the event, canceled their upcoming Tulsa show. The tour bus was damaged, and their driver was too disturbed to continue driving.
2014: Barton Discusses Departure
In 2014, Rick Barton revealed that his departure from Dropkick Murphys in 2000 stemmed from personal conflicts with Ken Casey, although they later reconciled.
January 2015: Dropkick Murphys Oppose Scott Walker Using Their Song
In January 2015, Dropkick Murphys publicly opposed Republican governor of Wisconsin Scott Walker using their song "I'm Shipping Up to Boston" at the Iowa Freedom Summit. The band expressed their strong disapproval of Walker's political views on Twitter and highlighted their support for unions and labor rights, gaining national media attention.
June 22, 2015: Josh Wallace Leaves Dropkick Murphys
On June 22, 2015, Josh "Scruffy" Wallace departed from Dropkick Murphys after twelve years with the band. They announced his departure on Facebook, wishing him and his family well. Lee Forshner took over as the touring and recording bagpipe player, although he did not become an official band member.
2015: Ken Casey Starts Murphys Boxing
In 2015, Ken Casey launched Murphys Boxing, expanding his career into the boxing promotion industry. He took on roles such as a corner man for boxers like Danny O'Connor and Spike O'Sullivan, branching out from music into sports promotion.
May 2016: Dropkick Murphys' 20th Anniversary Tour
In May 2016, during their annual St. Patrick's Day tour, Dropkick Murphys celebrated their 20th anniversary. They revealed plans to record a new album and premiered two new songs, "The Ghosts of Rock'n'Roll" and "Sandlot," marking a milestone in their career.
May 20, 2016: Receiving the 'Robert F. Kennedy Children's Action Corps' Embracing the Legacy Award'
On May 20, 2016, Dropkick Murphys were honored with the 'Robert F. Kennedy Children's Action Corps' Embracing the Legacy Award' for their extensive charity work, particularly benefiting children and veterans, acknowledging their commitment to social justice.
November 2016: Announcement of Ninth Studio Album
In November 2016, Dropkick Murphys announced the upcoming release of their ninth studio album, '11 Short Stories of Pain & Glory,' scheduled for January 2017. The announcement included singles such as "Blood," "You'll Never Walk Alone," and "Paying My Way."
2016: Josh Wallace Joins The Mahones
In 2016, following his exit from Dropkick Murphys, Josh Wallace joined the band The Mahones. This move marked a new chapter in his musical career after spending twelve years with Dropkick Murphys.
2016: Political Climate and the Band's Stance
The year 2016 saw the U.S. presidential election, prompting band members to voice their political opinions. Al Barr supported Bernie Sanders and expressed disillusionment with the Democratic Party, while Matt Kelly shared his concerns about both major candidates. The band maintained its focus on music and its core principles of supporting workers and opposing racism.
January 6, 2017: 11 Short Stories of Pain & Glory Release
Dropkick Murphys released their ninth studio album, 11 Short Stories of Pain & Glory, on January 6, 2017. It debuted at number 8 on the Billboard charts and rose to number 2.
January 2017: Band Members Discuss Political Views Post-Election
In January 2017, Dropkick Murphys members Matt Kelly and Al Barr shared their political views regarding the 2016 election. Kelly expressed skepticism about both Trump and Clinton, while Barr voiced disappointment with the Democratic Party, emphasizing the band's pro-union and anti-racism stance.
January 2017: Tim Brennan on Trump's Presidency and Band's Values
In January 2017, guitarist Tim Brennan discussed the band's unwavering support for unions and workers' rights amidst the Trump administration's rise. He emphasized that the band would continue to uphold these values and clarified that individuals with racist ideologies were not welcome at their shows.
March 2017: Conclusion of Album Promotional Tour
Dropkick Murphys concluded their promotional tour for their ninth studio album '11 Short Stories of Pain & Glory' with their annual St. Patrick's Day shows in Boston in March 2017. This marked the end of a successful tour promoting their latest release.
June 2017: Plans for Tenth Studio Album
In June 2017, drummer Matt Kelly revealed in an interview that Dropkick Murphys aimed to complete their tenth studio album following their summer tour with Rancid. The band hoped to release the album in 2018.
August 2017: From Boston to Berkeley Tour with Rancid
In August 2017, Dropkick Murphys co-headlined the 'From Boston to Berkeley Tour' with Rancid, spanning from late July to late August across North America. The tour featured both bands sharing the stage at each show's conclusion, highlighting a collaborative effort.
May 2018: Ken Casey's Motorcycle Accident
In May 2018, Ken Casey suffered a severe motorcycle accident that led to significant vertebral disc damage, requiring surgery. The injury affected his ability to play bass, leading to Kevin Rheault stepping in as the bassist for the band.
2018: Anticipation of Tenth Studio Album
In 2018, Dropkick Murphys planned to release their tenth studio album, following the completion of their tour with Rancid. This anticipated release marked a continuation of their musical journey.
March 17, 2019: Incident During St. Patrick's Day Show
On March 17, 2019, during a St. Patrick's Day show at the House of Blues, Ken Casey attempted to intervene in a fight among fans and was struck by a beer can. Despite the injury, he continued performing, showcasing his resilience and dedication.
November 2019: Charity event for firefighter Lt. Jason Menard
In November 2019, Dropkick Murphys performed at a charity event for Lt. Jason Menard, a Worcester firefighter who died heroically. The band also sold benefit T-shirts to support Menard's family, demonstrating their commitment to community support.
January 31, 2020: Release of Two New Songs
On January 31, 2020, Dropkick Murphys released two new songs, "Smash Shit Up" and "The Bonny," available for digital download. Ken Casey indicated that the band's next album would be released in late 2020, with ongoing song releases planned.
February 2020: Matt Kelly on Trump's Presidency
In February 2020, drummer Matt Kelly commented on the state of America under President Donald Trump, noting increased employment but criticizing the political climate as embarrassing and childlike.
March 17, 2020: Streaming Up to Boston Performance
On March 17, 2020, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Dropkick Murphys performed 'Streaming Up to Boston,' a free live-streamed show from Derry, New Hampshire. Sponsored by Pegasystems, the performance included previews of new songs from their upcoming album.
March 21, 2020: Digital Single Release
On March 21, 2020, Dropkick Murphys released a digital single 'Mick Jones Nicked My Pudding' with a b-side 'James Connolly.' Fans could choose their donation amount for the download, with higher tiers offering special video shout-outs from the band.
May 29, 2020: Streaming Outta Fenway Concert
On May 29, 2020, Dropkick Murphys performed 'Streaming Outta Fenway,' a no-audience concert at Fenway Park, Boston. The event featured Bruce Springsteen and raised over $700,000 for charity, setting a precedent for stadium performances without audiences during the pandemic.
June 6, 2020: Deal with Pegasystems
On June 6, 2020, Dropkick Murphys secured a six-figure deal with Pegasystems to support their live shows and road crew for three years. The partnership provided financial stability amid touring uncertainties due to the pandemic.
August 2020: Dropkick Murphys Support Joe Kennedy III
In August 2020, Dropkick Murphys announced their support for Joe Kennedy III in his bid for the U.S. Senate, aligning with their political views and principles.
August 21, 2020: Tribute to Joe Strummer
On August 21, 2020, Dropkick Murphys participated in an online livestream tribute event called A Song for Joe: Celebrating the Life of Joe Strummer. Part of the band performed an acoustic version of "Tommy Gun" by The Clash as a tribute to the late musician Joe Strummer.
August 22, 2020: Virtual Acoustic Set for Joe Kennedy III
On August 22, 2020, Dropkick Murphys performed a special virtual live streaming acoustic set on Facebook in support of Joe Kennedy III's campaign for the U.S. Senate. This performance was part of their ongoing efforts to engage with fans and support political causes.
September 2020: Anticipated Album Release
In September 2020, Dropkick Murphys planned to release their next album, following a series of song releases throughout the year. This strategy aimed to keep fans engaged leading up to the full album release.
February 23, 2021: Release of Single "Middle Finger"
On February 23, 2021, Dropkick Murphys released the single "Middle Finger" and announced their upcoming tenth album, Turn Up That Dial, scheduled for release on April 30, 2021. This marked a significant milestone in their music career.
March 6, 2021: Ken Casey Discusses 'Turn Up That Dial' Album
On March 6, 2021, Ken Casey talked about the band's tenth album, 'Turn Up That Dial', highlighting a song titled "Chosen Few" that critiques former President Trump and his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. Casey emphasized limiting Trump's influence on their music, despite his significant media presence during his term.
March 17, 2021: St. Patrick's Day Live Stream 2021
On March 17, 2021, Dropkick Murphys performed a free live stream concert called St. Patrick's Day Live Stream 2021...Still Locked Down. The event was held online due to COVID-19 restrictions, and the band encouraged fans to donate to support their crew and cover expenses.
March 31, 2021: Release of "Queen of Suffolk County"
On March 31, 2021, Dropkick Murphys released the fifth single from their upcoming album Turn Up That Dial, titled "Queen of Suffolk County." A music video for the song was set to be released on April 15, 2021.
April 29, 2021: Ken Casey on Trump's Election Loss and New Album
In an April 29, 2021 interview, Ken Casey revealed his relief at Trump's election loss and discussed its influence on their 2021 album 'Turn Up That Dial'. Casey aimed to focus on positive themes and avoid giving Trump further attention, reflecting on the division caused by his presidency.
April 30, 2021: Turn Up That Dial Release
Dropkick Murphys released their tenth album, Turn Up That Dial, on April 30, 2021.
May 1, 2021: Record Release Party Livestream
On May 1, 2021, Dropkick Murphys hosted a record release party livestream to celebrate the release of Turn Up That Dial. They performed the entire album along with other songs from their previous albums, engaging fans virtually due to pandemic restrictions.
June 24, 2021: Introduction of the American Music Fairness Act
On June 24, 2021, Ken Casey, alongside other musicians and congressmen, appeared at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. to help introduce the American Music Fairness Act. This act aimed to ensure music performers and copyright owners receive royalties for their songs' airplay on AM/FM radio in the U.S., a country where such royalties were not previously paid. Casey expressed support for equitable compensation for musicians, despite being a punk rocker who typically doesn't seek radio play.
February 2022: Changes in Band Lineup
In February 2022, Campbell Webster joined Dropkick Murphys as their touring bagpipe player, marking his first recording with the band on a cover of "We Shall Overcome." Additionally, Al Barr had to drop off the band's 2022 St. Patrick's Day Tour and summer tour in Europe to care for his ailing mother, with other vocalists stepping in for him.
March 23, 2022: Social media feud with Neo-Nazi group
On March 23, 2022, the Dropkick Murphys engaged in a social media feud with a local Massachusetts Neo-Nazi group, NSC-131, objecting to the use of their song in a promotional video. The band publicly condemned the group through Twitter in a heated exchange.
March 26, 2022: Protest rally against Neo-Nazi group
Following the feud with the Neo-Nazi group NSC-131, a protest rally was held on March 26, 2022, against the hate group. Although the band was not involved in the rally, the event was a response to the group's actions including their attempt to take over a local St. Patrick's Day parade in Boston.
September 2022: Criticism of Donald Trump during live shows
In September 2022, Dropkick Murphys' Ken Casey criticized former President Donald Trump during a live show, dedicating their song 'First Class Loser' to him. Casey's remarks about political manipulation and the working class were shared widely on social media, receiving mixed reactions.
September 30, 2022: This Machine Still Kills Fascists Release
Dropkick Murphys released their eleventh album, This Machine Still Kills Fascists, on September 30, 2022.
2022: Al Barr's Hiatus
Al Barr, co-lead vocalist of Dropkick Murphys, went on hiatus from the band in 2022.
2022: Dropkick Murphys release Ukrainian version of 'We Shall Overcome'
In 2022, following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the Dropkick Murphys collaborated with the Ukrainian Celtic punk band O'Hamsters to release a Ukrainian version of 'We Shall Overcome'. The O'Hamsters sang lead vocals while the Dropkick Murphys provided music and backup vocals. The video included artwork from Ukrainian artists and shared links to charities aiding the war effort.
February 14, 2023: Support for UK Strikes
On February 14, 2023, Dropkick Murphys collaborated with the National Union of Rail, Maritime, and Transport Workers to shoot a music video supporting various strikes across the UK since May 2022, demonstrating their ongoing commitment to workers' rights.
February 2023: Release of 'All You Tories' music video
In February 2023, Dropkick Murphys released a music video for 'All You Tories,' a reworking of a Woody Guthrie song, supporting UK union workers. The video was made in collaboration with the RMT and highlighted the band's solidarity with striking workers in various sectors.
March 1, 2023: Release of Single "I Know How it Feels"
On March 1, 2023, Dropkick Murphys released the single "I Know How it Feels" from their upcoming twelfth album Okemah Rising. This single preceded the album's release and showcased their continued collaboration with Woody Guthrie's unused lyrics.
March 30, 2023: Release of Single "Gotta Get to Peekskill"
On March 30, 2023, Dropkick Murphys released "Gotta Get to Peekskill," featuring Violent Femmes, as another single from their upcoming album Okemah Rising. The song continued their trend of utilizing Woody Guthrie's unused lyrics.
May 12, 2023: Okemah Rising Release
Dropkick Murphys released their twelfth album, Okemah Rising, on May 12, 2023.
August 30, 2024: Release of Documentary "This Machine Rising"
On August 30, 2024, Dropkick Murphys released a short documentary titled This Machine Rising on YouTube. The film documented the band's recording process for their albums This Machine Still Kills Fascists and Okemah Rising, as well as their supporting theater tour.
September 2024: Release of 'Sirens' single
In September 2024, Dropkick Murphys released a new single titled 'Sirens.' Ken Casey explained that the song addresses political division and the manipulation of the working class by billionaires, urging unity against common adversaries.
September 19, 2024: Release of Single "Sirens"
On September 19, 2024, Dropkick Murphys released a new single titled "Sirens," continuing their prolific output and engagement with fans.
