Call it "play to pay."
Gov. Martin O'Malley will strum tomorrow night at an Irish bar in Washington to raise money for his re-election bid.
The campaign event, billed as "O'Malley Live!" will include a few, but not all, members of the governor's longtime Celtic rock band, O'Malley's March. Ticket prices range from $40 to $500.
O'Malley's musical tendencies have long generated controversy -- with detractors saying he should have quit the band to focus on executive duties and supporters saying it provides a great way to connect with Marylanders.
O'Malley's March largely disbanded around the time its frontman transitioned from Baltimore mayor to Maryland governor. But they reunite for special events and put out an album last year.
(Vintage Baltimore Sun photo, circa 2001.)