If the Dropkick Murphys represent the most commercialized of the bands examined by this project, and the Dubliners represent a middle ground, then the Wolfe Tones represent the band that strove the most to remain true to the political ideals of its members, refusing to sacrifice authenticity in favor of accessibility.
Of all three bands, the Wolfe Tones are far and away the most politically inflammatory of the three. Through their discography, the band made their support for Irish nationalism blatantly clear. Their name is a direct reference to Theobold Wolfe Tone, who’s message of Irish republicanism is thoroughly touted in their music.
Despite their popularity among Irish people, the band has reported that the media has consistently discriminated against their work for their political leanings. Their songs were often blacklisted by radio broadcasters. The band has been vocal in their support of claims that the Irish famine was a targeted genocide against the Irish at the hands of their British rulers.
The band has also clashed with Unionist organizations while simultaneously expressing support for the IRA. They have been known to publicize their views outside of their music, becoming unofficial spokespersons for Irish nationalist organizations, often at the expense of international commercial success.
One should not assume, however, that the band experienced any sort of economic hardships as a result of their opinionated message. Instead, it is important to note that the Wolfe Tones are widely celebrated in Ireland, and have toured extensively both inside and outside of the country. However, it is impossible to deny that the band alienated more moderate listeners through their song choices and the rhetoric shared during their public appearances.
Additionally, the band’s self-aggrandizing behavior has been seen as distasteful by critics and fans alike. Their claims to be the “most popular positive Irish folk group ever to come from Ireland” are largely exaggerated. Despite these shortcomings, it is impossible to deny that the band experienced some modicum of international fame while remaining authentic to their personal ideologies.