Red Hand Paddy was formed in 1994 by a group of local Irish musicians who wanted to bring a more modern sound to the traditional music typically offered on the pub scene. The original lineup included Brian Corr on vocals and acoustic guitar; his brother Jim Corr on vocals, fiddle, and banjo; Dan Macel on vocals and keyboards; Mike Hegarty on vocals and drums; Patrick Connelly on vocals; and Dan Sweeny on vocals and electric guitar. Bassist Stan Brusoski joined shortly after the band's inception.

What has always set RHP apart from other local performers is its rock and roll sound, combined with an authentic Celtic flavor. The Corr Brothers were a celebrated traditional/folk act for many years, playing in venues up and down the east coast. With the formation of RHP, that tradition has grown into something new: one of Pittsburgh's only currently performing Celtic Rock bands.

Over the years there have been some important changes, most notably the addition of Ryan Macel on tenor banjo and guitar. While the band continues to grow musically, one thing will always remain consistant: the theme upon which the band was built will always be fine Celtic music with a strong, modern, and upbeat delivery. The band plays a mix of original, traditional, and folk songs, as well as covers from bands like The Saw Doctors, The Pogues, and The Proclaimers.

One question often asked of the band is the origin of the name. The red hand has long been a symbol of Ulster in Northern Ireland; given that several of the founding members of the band are native to that area, "Red Hand Paddy" seemed a natural fit. In the last century the red hand has been used as propaganda for a variety of political movements, some of them quite radical - RHP has adopted this symbol to celebrate the heritage of the people from Northern Ireland, and makes no political statement by doing so. The red hand was in use long before the current political circumstance.

"Combining a lively mix of Irish tunes and American classics, John McCann has an uncanny knack for making strangers feel like friends. No two shows are ever alike because John tailors each performance to please the audience; virtually making them another member of the band -- and occasionally inviting people to join him at the microphone. It’s hand-clapping, foot-stomping, sing-along fun as John brings out the Irish in everyone!"