Mighty Ploughboys are one of those bands that make you want to be Irish! A five-piece rock powerhouse out of Connecticut that blends a classic rock style with hints of traditional Irish music to create an eclectic style that could be classified in its own genre. The Mighty Ploughboys will challenge the way you think of Irish or Celtic rock bands.
Throughout the course of their musical union, the members of Mighty Ploughboys have won over the hearts of music lovers from all walks of life. Performing at a variety of venues and making countless public appearances all the while recording new song versions, this talented Rock Band has earned the admiration and affection of critics and fans alike.
THE LADS
PAT HEARTY
Lead Vocals, Guitar
Pat is the lead singer and rhythm guitarist. Growing up, Patrick spent almost every summer in his parents’ homeland, Northern Ireland, listening to the many songs and ballads in County Armagh. Born and raised in New Fairfield, CT, Patrick fronted “Firehouse Red” in the late 80s to early 90s and had helped form and sing in “Trooper Thorne” through the rest of the 90s. He performed for a short while as a solo act while residing in the Boston area. In 2001 Patrick returned to Connecticut and decided to finally listen to his father’s advice and form an Irish band.
Patrick’s primary musical influence has always been his parents, Pete Hearty, a professional bagpiper and his mother, Mary, a singer and guitar player. His other Irish musical influences include The Wolfe Tones, The Saw Doctors, and Paddy Reilly.
SEAN FINNERTY
Bass Guitar
Sean starting playing music in his early teens and his influences include rock, alternative, jazz, and metal. Prior to joining The Mighty Ploughboys, he was a member of such bands as Furthurmore, Stigian, and Draught. Sean's bass lines help contribute to the great original sound of The Mighty Ploughboys.
JOHN RICH
Guitar, Vocals
John plays lead guitar and sings backing vocals. His Celtic roots come from his mother's side of the family who immigrated from Milngavie, Scotland. John was born in New York City and moved to New Fairfield, CT when he was 11 years old. Pat and John, long-time friends, have crossed paths many times over the years, now rockin' the same stage.
RENATO GHIO
Guitar, Mandolin
At 12 years old Renato pulled weeds at a local farm to pay for his first guitar and has been rocking out ever since. He's a metalhead at heart but truly loves all music. He has known Pat and John for most of his life so even though he’s Italian the lads decided to let him in the band and deemed him “honorary Irishman.”
MARCELLO MURACA
Drums
When he was thirteen, Marcello overheard his older brother listening to Heavy Metal. He was hooked! The power and attitude of the drums had his attention. He quickly got his first kit and became obsessed with practicing so he could start a band. He did just that and has been playing with the same passion ever since.
FORMER BANDMATES
JIM LYNCH
Drummer, Backing Vocals
Jim found his Irish at the old A.O.H. club in Danbury, thumping the bar and singing Black Velvet Band and Fields of Athenry over a few pints of Harp. After stints in Firehouse Red and Trooper Thorne, Jim joined the Mighty Ploughboys in the spring of 2008 before retiring from the rock and roll lifestyle in 2017.
MIKE SMITH
Guitar, Backing Vocals
Iron Mike has misspent his young life roaming from the dusty plains of Texas to the streets of New York City always managing to stay one step ahead of the law. In an attempt to make an honest living while still spending as much time as possible in Irish bars, Iron Mike joined the Mighty Ploughboys and quickly built a reputation as the fastest guitar in the East.
Mike left us for the “Dream Gig” upstairs in January 2012. But his music, inspiration, and spirit will always be the driving force of this band.
We will never forget you.