Greg Boland - Innovative Irish Guitarist
One of Irish music's most accomplished and admired Irish guitarists, Greg Boland is best known as a collaborative and session musician, and has worked with many critically acclaimed bands and artists including Scullion. He also performed with famed musicians Steve Winwood, Carole King, Leo Sayer, and Bono, among others.
Greg Boland was one of the most talented guitarists ever to tread the music scene in Ireland. He passed away suddenly on August 16th, 2018. He is survived by his two children, Laura and Adam.
Early Years
Born in 1955, Greg Boland became a part of a musically talented family. His brother, Andrew Boland, was a member of the jazz rock group Supply, Demand & Curve. Andrew also played with legendary funksters Stagalee, who blazed a trail across Ireland in the mid-1970s. Following in his brothers footsteps, Greg’s musical career began in the 1970's as a member of Supply Demand & Curve.
Scullion
Greg Boland was a member of the original Scullion, alongside bandmates Sonny Condell, Jimmy O'Brien Moran and Philip King. The foursome scored a record deal in late 1979 and their debut album 'Scullion' was released in early 1980 which generated an increased demand for live performances.
The release of Scullion created a busy period of live performances for the group, including an appearance at the 'Lisdoonvarna Festival' in Co. Clare, Ireland. The Irish rock band went on to recorde four widely praised albums, combining superb songs, fine musicianship and a special kind of performance magic.
During this time, Greg Boland began to establish himself as a very busy studio session guitarist, playing on scores of Albums, Singles, Demos, Jingles, TV / Film Themes and Soundtracks.
In the mid 80's Greg co-formed R & B band, ‘Bumper to Bumper.’ The band’s members included some of Dublin’s top studio session players. Greg Boland has also been a member of the bands : Moving Hearts, Davy Spillane Band, and The Big Noise.
Steely Dan Expert and Aja
Later in his career, Greg Boland was a key figure in creating the Steely Dan tribute band, Aja. There was no better man than Greg for cutting through and understanding the typical Dan complexities, and playing those great, jazz-infused rock tunes with majestic precision and power.
Music Advocate
Before his passing in 2018, Greg Boland was a passionate advocate of musicians’ rights. He served as Vice President with the Musicians Union of Ireland and argued for more Irish music on Irish radio; and proper payments for musicians.
In Summary
Greg Boland was one of the most talented guitarists ever to tread the music scene in Ireland. He passed away suddenly on August 16th, 2018. He is survived by his two children, Laura and Adam.