Described as 'the real folk voice of Northern Ireland', Seán was born near Omagh and grew up in a musical family, where the weekly rambling house session was a regular feature of family and social life. His father Michael was a singer, from whom he absorbed many traditional songs.
He has been a star of the folk club circuit for many years, played many folk festivals and has appeared on numerous folk-related tv programmes. Over the years, he has built up a big following and made lasting impressions in the folk club and festival world. His first album came about after working with Colum and Tommy Sands at their studio in Rostrevor. This has been followed by several highly acclaimed albums.
Seán's repertoire includes Irish traditional songs, especially those with which he grew up, as well as contemporary material. He has become synonymous in the north of Ireland for 'The Homes of Donegal'.
Seán also toured with the well know broadcaster the late Gerry Anderson to sell out performances of their show ''Tall Tales and Short Songs' all around the north right up until Gerry's untimely death.
Seán Donnelly was given the prestigious 'Keeper of the Tradition ' award in 2012.
