The 4 Of Us

The 4 Of Us

The 4 Of Us are a rock, acoustic and alternative band from Newry, County Down, Northern Ireland. Formed in 1988, the group begins as a four-piece, although only brothers Brendan Murphy and Declan Murphy remain continuously in the line-up. The other members change over time.

Early releases and breakthrough

The band releases its first album, Songs for the Tempted, on CBS Records in 1989. The single “Mary” becomes one of the most played songs on Irish radio that year. The album goes double platinum in Ireland and wins Best Album of the Year at the Irish Music Awards, where it beats U2.

Later albums

After a successful second album, Man Alive, in 1992, the band loses momentum after shelving a planned third album. It does not split up, however, and returns to recording later. In 1999 it releases the largely acoustic Classified Personal, followed by Fingerprints in November 2006.

Style and recognition

The band is best known outside Ireland for its work in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Its catalogue includes rock material and more acoustic recordings, reflecting the mix of styles identified with the group.