Flogging Molly, the celebrated Celtic-punk band, has announced the cancellation of all their 2025 tour dates due to serious health concerns facing their frontman, Dave King. The band shared the news through their social media channels on February 5, 2025, stating, “Our fearless leader, the inimitable Dave King, is currently battling a very serious health condition.” This announcement has left fans reeling, as the band was set to begin their much-anticipated tour later this month.
Dave King’s health issues have not been specified by the band, who urged fans and the public to respect his privacy during this challenging time. Along with the cancellation of their tour, King will also miss the upcoming Salty Dog Cruise, which is set to commence on February 17. Despite King’s absence, the cruise will proceed as scheduled with the remaining members of Flogging Molly and other bands joining the lineup. “With the Salty Dog Cruise 12 days away, the boat will sail as planned with 18 bands, and members of Flogging Molly, on board to celebrate the cruise, the community and our captain, Dave King,” the band stated.
The Road to Rebellion tour, which was planned to kick off on February 24, included shows across the U.S. and culminated with performances over St. Patrick’s Day weekend. The band had hoped to celebrate this festive occasion with their fans, but now those plans have been indefinitely shelved. Flogging Molly expressed their appreciation for any good thoughts or prayers fans can extend toward King as he navigates this health challenge. “Any good thoughts or prayers you can send Dave’s way, he and we would appreciate it,” the statement details.
This untimely news marks another setback for the band, who has been known for its resilience and energetic performances since their formation in Los Angeles back in 1994. King, originally from Dublin, Ireland, had previously gained fame as the lead vocalist for the band Fastway before establishing Flogging Molly, which blends traditional Irish music with punk rock influences.
The expected tour not only held significance for fans but was also important for the band’s members, who had been preparing for major performances spanning multiple cities. Flogging Molly's lineup includes other talented musicians such as Bridget Regan, King’s wife, who is featured prominently on violin and vocals, along with bandmates Dennis Casey, Matt Hensley, Nathen Maxwell, Spencer Swain, and Mike Alons.
Rising to prominence with popular tracks such as “Drunken Lullabies,” “Devil’s Dance Floor,” and “If I Ever Leave This World Alive,” Flogging Molly has made indelible marks on the music scene through their energetic live shows and engaging fan base. This situation brings about various emotions among fans, many of whom are expressing their support for King and his family during this difficult moment.
The Salty Dog Cruise, which will still take place, is intended as a celebration of the community and the spirit of music, where other performing bands will be featured. Many bands scheduled to join the cruise hope to energize attendees and keep the spirit of Flogging Molly alive. Nevertheless, as they prepare for the event, supporters are left wondering about King’s health and when he may return to the stage once more.
The cancellation news has generated discussions online, with fans sharing their thoughts and hoping for King’s swift recovery. While the future is uncertain, it is clear the band holds significant love and dedication from their fan base and the music community.
This announcement about the cancellation of the 2025 tour is sure to resonate through the music community, as Flogging Molly has been influential on many fronts within the punk and Celtic music genres. Their commitment to their craft and their fans remains unwavering, even as they navigate these challenging times. Fans are encouraged to direct any inquiries related to ticket refunds and the cancellation of shows to their points of purchase to recoup expenses linked with the canceled performances.
Flogging Molly’s latest studio album, Anthem, was released in 2022 and showcased the band’s evolution. While King’s health has abruptly altered the course for the band this year, followers remain hopeful for the frontman’s full recovery and the band’s return to the stage.