Dropkick Murphys Celebrate Quincy with Free Concert
On Saturday, the Dropkick Murphys took to the stage in Quincy, delivering a free concert that resonated with thousands of fans. The band expressed their appreciation for the city, stating they owe Quincy "a debt of gratitude."
This performance coincided with Quincy's 400th birthday celebrations and marked the release of their latest album, "For the People." Ken Casey, one of the band's lead singers, remarked, "To have a free show almost 30 years into our career to celebrate our record release and Quincy's birthday. And who doesn't like free? It's a free show."
The Celtic punk legends performed on Hancock Street, not far from where they first practiced in 1996. Casey reflected on the town's significance, saying, "Quincy is the epitome of regular people in the Boston area. It's just an awesome kind of hard-working town. Just a lot of great memories from the very first time the very first fan kicked their foot through the plywood window into the basement where we were practicing at 654 Hancock Street and said, 'Can I be your first fan?' And I was like 'wow.' And here we are," he added, emphasizing their gratitude towards Quincy.
Despite only having played in Quincy three times before—once for a private memorial and another at the now-closed Beachcomber event space—Casey humorously noted, "You think we would've played more in Quincy."
The band appreciates their diverse fan base, which spans ages seven to seventy. "We are lucky to have the greatest supporters ever. I think it's a mutual respect, though. They know we love them, and we get that love right back. I wouldn't have it any other way," Casey stated. He highlighted how fans have formed friendships through their shared love for the band.
In addition to entertaining fans, the Dropkick Murphys raised funds for their charity, The Claddagh Fund, which supports various non-profits aiding those in need. "We try to be hands-on with our charity work," Casey explained. "To have that place in your heart where it takes on a greater meaning than just music. It's nice to have the charity side. Hopefully, the Claddagh Fund will go on long after we are too old and broken to get on that stage anymore."
Prior to the concert, the Boston Red Sox honored the band with a themed night, offering fans a promotional bobblehead that plays "I'm Shipping Up To Boston." A portion of the proceeds from this event also benefited The Claddagh Fund.
Quincy is celebrating its 400th anniversary since its first settlement in 1625 with various events planned throughout the year. Upcoming highlights include a sold-out concert by Darius Rucker on August 2 and a performance by John Fogerty with Hearty Har on August 3.
