Dermot Kennedy Honors Dolores O’Riordan at Electric Picnic 2025

The Electric Picnic festival in Ireland witnessed a poignant tribute on September 3, 2025, as Dermot Kennedy joined The Cranberries to perform songs originally sung by the late Dolores O’Riordan. The performance, featuring the RTE Concert Orchestra, served as a heartfelt remembrance of O’Riordan, who passed away in January 2018. The collaboration of Noel and Mike Hogan with Kennedy offered a bittersweet experience for the audience, blending nostalgia with celebration.

A Moment of Reflection

The atmosphere in the crowd was notably subdued before the Hogans took the stage. When Noel Hogan finally addressed the audience, he did so with a dry sense of humor. “We played in a band you might’ve heard of called The Cranberries,” he remarked, eliciting a wave of cheers. He continued, “We were asked to sing a few songs. But Mike and I can’t sing, so we invited our friend … Please welcome Dermot Kennedy.” The audience erupted in applause, setting the stage for a unique emotional experience.

The Cranberries’ extensive catalogue, featuring iconic tracks like “Linger,” “Dreams,” “Zombie,” and “Ode to My Family,” resonates deeply with fans. The challenge of reinterpreting these beloved songs looms large. Kennedy approached the task with a sense of humility, expressing his gratitude for the opportunity to honor the legacy of O’Riordan and The Cranberries. “Honoured, and a little flabbergasted, to be up here singing songs that hold such a place in Irish musical history,” he told the crowd at the start of his set.

A Tribute to Musical Legacy

With a rich and powerful voice, Kennedy’s delivery combined with the orchestra created a sweeping, grand experience. This fusion resulted in a stirring performance that resonated with the audience. While the original songs’ haunting qualities may have been somewhat overshadowed by the orchestral backing, the intent was clear: to honor the beauty of the music.

The concert was less about replicating the originals and more about celebrating their essence. During “Dreams,” the audience joined in unison, creating a powerful moment of connection. The atmosphere transformed into a shared ritual, reflecting a blend of memory, loss, and joy. By the time the final song, “Zombie,” concluded, many in the crowd were visibly moved, with tears marking the emotional weight of the occasion.

This performance not only served as a tribute to O’Riordan but also reconnected the audience with the timeless impact of The Cranberries’ music. Kennedy’s respectful interpretation and the Hogans’ heartfelt presence made for a memorable experience, highlighting the enduring legacy of a band that continues to resonate decades after its inception.