Legendary Irish folk musician Ronnie Drew, a founder member of The Dubliners, died in a Dublin hospital on Saturday, his family said. He was 73 and had been suffering from throat cancer.

The Dubliners, formed in 1962, were pioneers for Irish folk music across Europe and the United States. Drew was known for his gravelly-voiced renditions of rabble-rousing folk songs like "Finnegan's Wake" and "Dicey Reilly".

Drew's family said in a statement that he died peacefully while they were at his bedside and they were "very grateful for all the letters of support and wishes during the term of Ronnie's illness."

With his health failing, Irish music stars released a tribute song in February this year entitled "The Ballad of Ronnie Drew". Proceeds went to the Irish Cancer Society.

Those involved included U2, Bob Geldof, Sinead O'Connor, Andrea Corr, Chris de Burgh, Ronan Keating, Shane MacGowan, The Dubliners and The Chieftains.

Speaking at the time of recording, U2 frontman Bono said: "Ronnie is like the king of Ireland, and we are his subjects."

Irish Prime Minister Brian Cowen said Drew would be remembered worldwide.

"Ronnie Drew was an iconic figure in Irish music over the last five decades," he said.

"Ronnie... will also be remembered for his promotion of Irish music both at home and around the world."

President Mary McAleese said Drew brought great pleasure to the people of Ireland and beyond.

"Ronnie was a champion of traditional Irish music and, with The Dubliners, he re-energised and refreshed our unique musical heritage," she said.