What is the best The Chieftains album to start with?

The best album to start with is "Irish Heartbeat" (1988). It's the most representative of what makes The Chieftains worth hearing.

What are the best The Chieftains albums?

The essential The Chieftains albums include "An Irish Evening", "The Chieftains" (1963), "The Chieftains 2" (1969), "The Chieftains 3" (1971) and "The Chieftains 4" (1973).

How many albums does The Chieftains have?

The Chieftains has 39 releases in their discography, including 28 albums.

Photo: Maelor · Public domain

The Chieftains

Q: Who is The Chieftains for?

If you're into folk, The Chieftains is worth your time. Rooted in rhythmic pulse and melodic intricacy, their music dances between spirited jigs and melancholic airs, allowing moments of tension to give way to joyous release.

Rooted in rhythmic pulse and melodic intricacy, their music dances between spirited jigs and melancholic airs, allowing moments of tension to give way to joyous release.

Ireland Est. 1963

Read about The Chieftains on Bookshop

Start here

The album

Irish Heartbeat (1988)

Represents the essence of their folk sound, blending traditional Irish music with a contemporary feel for an engaging experience.

The song

“I'll Tell Me Ma”

An energetic song that highlights their lively style and rhythmic pulse, making it a captivating introduction to their music.

See the full guide

Songs to start with

If you'd rather pick a song than an album.

1

"Star of the County Down" — from Irish Heartbeat (1988)

accessible entry with immediate hook
2

"The Chattering Magpie" — from The Chieftains 6: Bonaparte's Retreat (1976)

establishes the sonic palette early
3

"Carolina Rua / Reel – The Ladies Pantalettes" — from Voice of Ages (2012)

establishes the sonic palette early
4

"Never Give All the Heart" — from Tears of Stone (1999)

establishes the sonic palette early
5

"The Morning Dew" — from The Chieftains Live! (1977)

establishes the sonic palette early
6

"Happy to Meet" — from Another Country (1992)

accessible entry with immediate hook

About The Chieftains

The Chieftains are a cornerstone of modern folk music, reshaping the perception and appreciation of traditional Irish sounds within a contemporary framework.

Their influence has extended beyond music, fostering a deeper cultural exchange that invites audiences to explore the rich tapestry of Irish heritage while bridging gaps between genres and traditions. By elevating traditional instruments and melodies to new heights, they have inspired countless musicians to embrace and adapt their own cultural roots. Their innovative approach lies in their ability to weave authentic folk elements with modern sensibilities, creating a sound that feels both timeless and immediate. The Chieftains often collaborate with artists from various backgrounds, seamlessly blending diverse idioms and styles, which not only expands their sonic palette but also enriches the listening experience. This cross-pollination of genres creates a space where listeners can find familiar comfort while being introduced to the unfamiliar. Lyrically, The Chieftains frequently delve into themes of love, loss, and the joys of life, drawing from a well of storytelling that is both sincere and evocative. Their writing often embodies a conversational tone, inviting listeners into intimate narratives that resonate on personal levels. Through a mix of heartfelt sincerity and playful irony, they create an emotional landscape that feels accessible yet profound.

28 studio albums· 39 total releases· 4 decades· Ireland

Full discography

The Chieftains's albums in order, from earliest releases to latest.

39 releases • 28 albums • 1963–2012

Discography may be incomplete (28 of ~30 albums indexed)

Type:

Singles (2)

I Know My Love

1999

I'll Tell Me Ma

1988

Other releases (2)

Experimental

Ballad of the Irish Horse

1986

64 /100

The Year of the French

1983

No releases match the current filters.

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The Chieftains

Start here

Songs to start with

About The Chieftains

Full discography

Studio albums (28)

Voice of Ages

San Patricio

Further Down the Old Plank Road

Down the Old Plank Road: The Nashville Sessions

Tears of Stone

Fire in the Kitchen

Santiago

The Long Black Veil

Another Country

The Bells of Dublin

A Chieftains Celebration

Irish Heartbeat

Celtic Wedding

The Chieftains in China

The Chieftains 10: Cotton-Eyed Joe

The Chieftains 9: Boil the Breakfast Early

The Chieftains 8

The Chieftains 7

The Chieftains 6: Bonaparte's Retreat

The Chieftains 5

The Chieftains 4

The Chieftains 3

Water From the Well

The Celtic Harp

Reel Music: The Film Scores

National Music - Ireland

The Chieftains 2

The Chieftains

Live (3)

Live from Dublin: A Tribute to Derek Bell

The Chieftains Live!

An Irish Evening

Compilations (4)

The Essential Chieftains

The Wide World Over – A 40 Year Celebration

Film Cuts

The Best of the Chieftains

Singles (2)

I Know My Love

I'll Tell Me Ma

Other releases (2)

Ballad of the Irish Horse

The Year of the French