The Potts name has been synonymous with traditional music and piping in particular for generations. Seán Óg Potts' great-grandfather John Potts was a famous piper from County Wexford who came to live in Dublin at the beginning of the 20th Century. Since then many of his descendants have contributed to the traditional music of Dublin most notably the great innovative fiddle player Tommy Potts who was Sean's grand uncle. Another grand uncle was Eddie Potts a well known piper and fiddle player many of whose tunes were collected by Brendan Breathnach and published in Ceol Rinnce na hEireann No 1.

Seán's father, also Seán, achieved international fame firstly as a member of Ceoltoirí Cualann, the ground breaking group founded in the late 50's by Seán Ó Riada. Later then in the 60's his father was a founding member of the Chieftains with whom he played and recorded for many years. Seán retired from touring and has devoted himself in recent years to promoting piping in Ireland through Na Píobairí Uilleann of which he was Chairman for many years.

Seán Óg Potts continues the family tradition through his playing and recording and among groups he has recorded with are the Donal Lunny Band, Bakerswell and Na Connery's. He also recorded a solo CD and features on the piping tutorial video published by Na Piobairi Uilleann and the CD-rom tutor published by MadForTrad.