The Dirty Wellies
A Traditional Irish Band From Chicago
A Traditional Irish Band From Chicago
Get ready to be swept off your feet by The Dirty Wellies—a powerhouse of traditional Irish music hailing from the heart of Chicago! Founded in 2012, the band began as The Murphy Girls, a trio of County Mayo natives: Regina Coyle, Maggie O'Callaghan, and Bernie Medina. Their musical journey took an exciting turn when they welcomed the talent of Kevin Branigan and rebranded as The Dirty Wellies.
Over the years, the ensemble has evolved with the addition of Jim Aman, Vince O'Callaghan, Jim Galecki, and Rían Norris. Together, they create a dynamic tapestry of sound that blends the timeless beauty of traditional Irish music with modern twists and melodies along with many Wellie originals.
From rollicking festivals to intimate concerts and cherished private performances, The Dirty Wellies' passionate devotion to trad has carried their music far and wide. Get ready to stomp your feet and sway to the infectious rhythms of a band whose heart and soul resonate with every tune they play! 🍀🎶
Regina (right, second from top), a native of Bekan, County Mayo, Ireland, is celebrated for her vibrant accordion playing and deep passion for traditional Irish music. After relocating to the Chicago area, Regina co-founded The Dirty Wellies, a dynamic Irish band rooted in Mayo tradition and fueled by friendship, storytelling, and song. Her playing blends authenticity with warmth, keeping the spirit of Irish music alive on both sides of the Atlantic.
Vinny (top left) grew up in Ballinahow, County Kerry, immersed in the storied tradition of Irish music. With the bodhrán in hand and his voice ready, Vinny’s playing anchors the rhythm of the band, giving each song a heartbeat. His vocals, both earthy and expressive, honors the past while living fully in each moment on stage.
Rían (top right) brings both youthful energy and timeless spirit to The Dirty Wellies. A versatile guitarist, mandolinist, banjo player, and vocalist, he infuses each performance with sincerity and soul. Born in Oak Lawn, Illinois, and grounded in family roots from Tipperary, Mayo, and Kerry, Rían is often described as an old soul — deeply connected to the traditions of Irish music while offering them fresh life for a new generation.
Jimmy G (left, second from bottom) adds a new layer of rhythm and soul to The Dirty Wellies as the band’s bassist. Originally from Palos, Illinois, Jimmy grew up immersed in the sounds of bluegrass and rock — influences that now shape his smooth, grounded approach to Irish folk. His musicianship ties together the band’s blend of tradition and innovation, rounding out their sound with depth and heart.
Jim (right, second from bottom) the tin whistle player for The Dirty Wellies, hails from Joliet, Illinois, and proudly traces his roots to County Mayo. A lifelong student of Irish traditional music, Jim has competed in the Fleadh in Ireland — a testament to both his technical mastery and his love for the craft. His bright, expressive whistle playing weaves effortlessly through the band’s arrangements, adding that unmistakable Irish lilt that brings their performances to life.
Maggie (left, second from top) is a co-founder of The Dirty Wellies and a multi-talented musician on fiddle, guitar, and vocals. Originally from Bekan, County Mayo, Maggie has been steeped in Irish music since childhood. Her love of performing spans every occasion — from weddings to funerals to fests — where her playing captures the full range of Irish life: the laughter, the tears, and the stories in between. Her heartfelt style and Mayo wit help define The Dirty Wellies’ signature sound and spirit.
A founding member of The Dirty Wellies, Kevin (bottom left) brings masterful guitar work, rich harmonies, and original compositions to the band’s signature sound. A gifted music teacher and lifelong performer, Kevin blends Irish tradition with modern influences — creating arrangements that are as soulful as they are spirited.
Frank (bottom right) is remembered as a valued member of the band. A complete Irish gentleman, this Tipperary native brought his love of Irish song and music to audiences with us for many years. We miss him every day.
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"We have been honored to have The Dirty Wellies play for our guests a number of times and continue to include them in our regular rotation of live music. The Wellies bring the lively traditional sounds of Ireland alive! It is always one heck of a good time!" - Michael Coogan, Franklins Public House (Palos Heights, IL)
“The Dirty Wellies is a powerhouse group of traditional Irish musicians who fill any size room with rich performances, warm stage presence, and large catalog of Irish tunes. Fiddle, bodhran, whistle, banjo, mandolin, vocals, and accordion; the Wellies have it all.” – Irish American Heritage Center (Chicago)
"The Dirty Wellies played for members and friends of the The Irish American Society of County Will (IASCW) at a 2016 event and at our annual Celtic Fest. This band is a sure crowd pleaser! Our crowd includes all ages so the musical likes vary greatly. This Band was able to please all and they will certainly be asked to play for us again!" – Irish American Society of County Will (Illinois)