Top of the Morning to ya! Said no Irish person ever...
With the Dublin Marathon just four days away, excitement is building. Whether you’re running the full 42.2km or supporting from the sidelines, this race is a proud showcase of the capital city and Ireland itself. It’s an event that stirs up patriotic pride, and there’s no better way to channel that energy than with some of the best music our country has produced. From legendary rock bands to iconic pop acts, Irish music has always had a unique ability to tell stories, move hearts, and energise bodies.
Perhaps you’re making some last-minute tweaks to your running playlist, or maybe you’re just getting started on a fresh one as we head into the winter months. Either way, this mix of Irish classics will carry you through your run. It’s a playlist that spans decades, genres, and styles, showcasing the breadth and talent of our homegrown musicians.
So let the sounds of Irish popular music guide you wherever your run takes you!
The Tracklist
- The Stunning – Brewing Up a Storm: A high-energy opener that will have you charging out the door, just like the title suggests.
- Thin Lizzy – Dancing in the Moonlight: A smooth, feel-good track for those early kilometres when you’re finding your pace.
- Nathan Carter – Wagon Wheel: Catchy and upbeat, this country hit will keep your spirits lifted as the run progresses.
- Sultans of Ping – Where’s My Jumper: Quirky and fast-paced, perfect for injecting some fun into your stride.
- The Corrs – Breathless: Light, pop-driven, and energetic – ideal for hitting a steady groove mid-run.
- Westlife – When You're Looking Like That: This upbeat pop tune will keep you motivated and on track as you rack up the kilometres.
- The Pogues – Sally MacLennane: Traditional Irish energy meets punk – a great song for when you need a lift mid-run.
- Mundy & Sharon Shannon – Galway Girl: A folk favourite that adds a touch of charm and energy to your pace.
- Goats Don’t Shave – Hills of Donegal: A spirited anthem that captures the essence of the Irish countryside – let it carry you through the tougher parts of your run.
- Cranberries – Dreams: The uplifting vocals of Dolores O'Riordan will inspire you as you settle into your stride.
- Mic Christopher – Heyday: An inspiring track, perfect for pushing through when you need that extra boost.
- The Script – The Man Who Can’t Be Moved: A powerful ballad for those moments when you want to lose yourself in the rhythm of the run.
- Boyzone – Picture of You: A feel-good pop song that’s light and fun, keeping your mood high as you hit your mid-run rhythm.
- Jedward – Lipstick: Playful and energetic, this track will keep you smiling and moving, no matter how tough the run gets.
- Bewitched – C'est la Vie: Catchy and nostalgic, this 90s pop classic will give you a lift just when you need it.
- U2 – Beautiful Day: There’s no better track to remind you to soak up the moment, especially if you’re running in beautiful Dublin.
- The Blizzards – Fantasy: A punchy, high-energy track for when you need to keep pushing forward.
- Sinead O'Connor – Mandinka: Unique and powerful, this track is perfect for finding your focus as you run.
- Enya – Orinoco Flow: A calming, ethereal track to help you zone out and find your flow during the run.
- The Coronas – Grace Don't Wait: Smooth and emotive, this song will help you stay grounded while keeping your pace steady.
- The Boomtown Rats – I Don’t Like Mondays: Classic Irish rock to keep the momentum going during the challenging parts of your run.
- Bill Whelan – Riverdance Theme: The iconic sounds of Riverdance will energise you with their traditional Irish flair and rhythm.
- The Republic of Ireland Squad – Put Em Under Pressure: A pure adrenaline rush, this one’s for the final stretch when you need to push hard to the finish.
- Mark McCabe – Maniac 2000: Nothing says ‘Irish party anthem’ like Maniac 2000 blast this as you sprint through the last kilometre.
Stay Safe and Aware
I know what you're thinking, this is the sixth article with yet another warning about running with headphones. You've probably just rolled your eyes because your sick of hearing it. And I don't blame you, genuinely. But again safety should always come first. Keep the volume at a reasonable level or use only one earbud, especially if you’re running near traffic or in busy areas.
Now, with this playlist of Irish classics in your ears, you’ll have the perfect soundtrack to motivate you every step of the way. Best of luck in the Dublin Marathon If you're running it) and may the roads rise to meet you!