Gary McMullen - Richard McMullan - Fred Klein - Dennis Green

Blackthorn welcomes you to the rich tapestry of Celtic music.

Traditional songs of emigration, sea shanties, lively jigs and reels, and haunting ancient airs combine with some of Ireland’s best contemporary songs for musical experience that captures the beauty, history and legend of Ireland and its people.

What makes a Blackthorn show unique is the variety of tunes, tempos and textures. Each member of the band plays multiple instruments, including wooden flute, accordion, tin whistle, five string banjo, cittern, bones and more. These instruments complement the lead vocal of Belfast native Richard McMullan and the band’s tight blend of four part harmony.

Blackthorn has played throughout the Great Lakes region since 1984. Based in Detroit, they perform at a variety of venues but can be found regularly at O’Mara’s Pub and Restaurant in Berkley. They were a fixture on J. P. McCarthy’s annual St. Patrick’s Day show on WJR radio and continue that tradition today on the Paul W. Smith show.

Other venues include concert halls, universities and festivals, including main stage appearances at the prestigious Michigan Irish Festival and world renowned Milwaukee Irish Fest. They have recorded seven CDs with tracks that include members of the Michigan Opera Theater and other local musicians. Richard McMullan has performed internationally, appearing worldwide on the 2004 broadcast of the Ryder Cup Opening Ceremony in 2004, and touring overseas with the Irish Rovers in 2005/06.

From large festival, to pub, restaurant or intimate performing arts center, Blackthorn provides a time tested musical experience. Chuck Ward of the Milwaukee Irish Fest says this about the band, “Blackthorn was very well received at Milwaukee Irish Fest, they impressed everyone with their strong and well blended songs. They are strong ambassadors in their commitment to continuing the Irish ballad tradition and a crowd pleasing addition to any festival."

Blackthorn is an adjudicated performer of the Michigan Humanities Council and the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs.

Members of the Band

Richard McMullan:

Born and raised in Belfast, Northern Ireland, Richard brings to the stage the stories and songs of his native land. He sings lead vocal and plays guitar, mandolin, cittern, and bodhran.

Fred Klein:

Fred brings a broad background of experience to Blackthorn having played variations of rock and jazz throughout his musical career. He is now firmly grounded in celtic music and plays keyboard, tin whistle, flute, and accordion.

Gary McMullen:

American and celtic folk music, with special emphasis on bluegrass and western swing best describes Gary's background. He plays guitar and 5 string banjo for Blackthorn.

Dennis Green:

Denny's backgound includes chorale and vocal group work as well as folk and country western music. He plays bass guitar for Blackthorn.

All members of Blackthorn share the vocals.