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Author: Breffni Banks

Other Voices Makes its Return to RTÉ this Spring with an Incredible Lineup

Laura Marling, Lisa O’Neill, James Dean Bradfield, Jacob Alon, Bashy, Morgana and more to feature in Other Voices Series 23 this Spring

RTÉ2 & RTÉ Player | Thursdays from 20 February | 11.00pm

Ireland’s iconic televised music show Other Voices makes its return to RTÉ this February with an all-new season filled with extraordinary performances and conversations filmed in Dingle and West Wales.

Presented by the legendary trio Annie Macmanus, Huw Stephens and MayKay, this brand-new six-part series will shine the spotlight on a stellar line-up of both emerging and established artists from Ireland and beyond, including; Laura Marling, Nubya Garcia, Wunderhorse, James Dean Bradfield, Maverick Sabre, Bashy, Rachael Lavelle, David Murphy, Been Stellar, Jacon Alon, Curtisy, Fionn Regan, Landless, Shiv, Melys, Georgia Ruth, Victor Ray, Charlotte Day Wilson, Fabiana Palladino, Nadine Shah, Bill Ryder-Jones, Morgana and Ellie O’Neill.

The series kicks off on 20 February with a powerful performance from Lisa O’Neill, whose singular voice and incredible storytelling light up the Church of St James in Dingle. She’ll be joined by UK hip-hop legend Bashy, whose first gig outside the UK in 15 years brings the audience to tears. Later in the episode, we’ll hear ethereal art-pop sensation Rachael Lavelle, and from the IMRO Other Room, Cork multi-instrumentalist David Murphy brings the dreamy sounds of the pedal steel guitar.

Episode 2, airing on 27 February, is a special tribute to extraordinary singer-songwriter Laura Marling, showcasing one of the most captivating performances from this year’s series. She sits down with Annie Mac for a heartfelt and honest conversation about motherhood, artistic expression, and her deeply personal new album, Patterns in Repeat. This episode also features a look back at her Other Voices debut at Wilton’s Music Hall in London over a decade ago, providing a moving reflection on the evolution of her music.

Bashy by Rich Gillian

Across the rest of the series, Other Voices will showcase standout performances that span a wide array of genres and styles – from the bold, dynamic jazz of Mercury-nominated Nubya Garcia, to the poetic folk of Fionn Regan, and the noisy indie-rock of Wunderhorse. In Episode 5, we’ll travel to West Wales for captivating highlights from Other Voices Cardigan 2024, featuring Manic Street Preachers frontman James Dean Bradfield, rising neo-soul star Victor Ray, Canadian soul and R&B powerhouse Charlotte Day Wilson, fierce and uncompromising alt-rocker Nadine Shah, former Coral guitarist and critically acclaimed singer-songwriter Bill Ryder-Jones, and many more.

Throughout the series, Other Voices continues to celebrate what’s about to happen, with some of Ireland’s brightest new voices – Tallaght rap-maestro and RTÉ Choice Music Prize nominee Curtisy, Meath indie-artist Ellie O’Neill, Irish-Zimbabwean soulful pop-sensation Shiv, and Cork multi-instrumentalist David Murphy take to the IMRO Other Room stage, filmed in the immersive Dingle venue WAVE.

Curtisy by Rich Gillian

Philip King, founder of Other Voices, reflected on this year’s series:

“This year Other Voices played host to a brilliant lineup of exceptional artists, singers and songwriters. From the beautiful Church of St James on the main street in Dingle to St Mary’s Church in Cardigan in West Wales, it is a delight to share these performances with you.”

Other Voices presenter MayKay added:

“The giddy lead up to Dingle is like nothing else, for us and for punters as well. You know you’re about to go through every emotion under the sun and come out the other side of it with another part of your heart healed, if also a bit exhausted! Those moments came most notably this year from Bashy, Lisa O’Neill and the exceptional Jacon Alon. Can’t wait for everyone to see these performances!” 

Other Voices begins on Thursday 20 February at 11pm* on RTÉ2 and will be available worldwide on the RTÉ Player.

Other Voices 2024 was made possible thanks to the support of Reed, the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, RTÉ, Kerry County Council and IMRO Ireland.

Tá sé ar fad Againn ar Cúla4 – Eachtraíocht, Samhlaíocht, Greann agus Spraoi

Tá daoine óga ag croílar gach cinneadh a dhéantar faoi Cúla4 agus tá seilbh glactha ag an aos óg ar an gcainéal. Is leo an spás nuálach seo. Tá an chumhacht ag daoine óga sna cinntí móra a dhéantar ag Cúla4! Bíonn na roghanna a dhéantar faoi choimisiniú clár ag teacht ó dhaoine óga, bíonn smaointe nua do shraitheanna ag teacht ó dhaoine óga agus bíonn moltaí úra d’ábhar ag teacht ó dhaoine óga. Tá cainéal mar seo tuillte ag ár lucht féachana óg agus is iad na daoine óga atá i gceannas, i ndáiríre!

Tá cainéal lánaimseartha Cúla4 bliain ar an aer anois agus níor cheap mé go mbeadh tionchar an chainéil le feiceáil chomh tapaidh seo. Tá sé deacair an tionchar sin agus tábhacht an chainéil a chur i scríbhinn. Déanann Cúla4 normalú ar an teanga i measc na hóige, músclaíonn Cúla4 suim sa Ghaeilge i measc na hóige agus spreagann Cúla4 spéis sa chultúr i measc na hóige.

Bhí bearna i dtírdhearc na meán in Éirinn ar feadh na mblianta. Ach tá rogha anois ag an aos óg, tuismitheoirí agus múinteoirí féachaint ar shiamsaíocht agus ar chláracha trí Ghaeilge ag am ar bith i rith an lae, rogha nach raibh ann dom féin agus mé ag fás aníos. Nach bhfuil an t-ádh leo! Bhí an chothromaíocht seo ag teastáil. Bhí éileamh ar chainéal lánaimseartha Gaeilge do dhaoine óga, bhí géarghá leis agus feiceann muid anois an paisean, an grá agus an suim atá ag daoine óga don teanga.

Mar thoradh ar bhunú Cúla4 mar chainéal lánaimseartha, tá fás tagtha ar an líon daoine atá san obair san earnáil agus tá criúnna nua á thraenáil go leanúnach. Tá líon mór de na daoine seo ag obair taobh amuigh de na cathracha, i gceantair Ghaeltachta ach go háirithe.

Lá cinniúnach i stair na teanga a bhí ann nuair a craoladh Cúla4 mar chainéal lánaimseartha den chéad uair. Lá mór a bhí ann do chainteoirí agus d’fhoghlaimeoirí na teanga agus lá stairiúil a bhí ann do dhaoine óga in Éirinn. Tá tionchar TG4 ar an bpobal le feiceáil gach uile lá agus anois tá an deis ag an gcainéal fuinniúil nua, Cúla4, dul i bhfeidhm ar dhaoine óga na tíre agus iad a spreagadh.

Is í Niamh Ní Chróinín láithreoir ar Cúla4, seirbhís do pháistí ar TG4. Tá sí ina hambasadóir ag Cúla4 freisin ag imeachtaí do dhaoine óga ar fud na tíre.

Music and the Arts in the 2024 General Election: Your Voice Matters

As the General Election approaches on Friday, 29th November 2024, the role of music and the arts in shaping Ireland’s cultural and economic identity has never been more important. Political parties across the spectrum have outlined their commitments to the creative sector in their manifestos, addressing funding, education, and policies that directly impact artists, creators, and the broader arts community. Now is the time for those passionate about music and the arts to ensure these promises translate into real action.

IMRO is calling on all parties to prioritise key measures to support the music ecosystem, including:

  • Strengthening copyright protections in AI regulations
  • Amending Section 481 to include an additional tax credit for the use of Irish music
  • Creating a broadcasting fund ring-fenced for new programmes on Irish music
  • Expanding cultural spaces throughout Ireland
  • Development of a National Music Strategy
  • Expansion of the Basic Income Scheme for the Arts
  • Initiatives to develop cities as music tourism hubs

As a member of IMRO or a supporter of the arts, you play a crucial role in amplifying these priorities. Over the coming days, we encourage you to engage with local candidates, share your experiences, and emphasise the value of a thriving arts sector to Ireland’s cultural heritage and economic wellbeing. By raising these issues directly with candidates, we can ensure that the arts remain a priority in the next government. Together, let’s ensure music and creativity are at the heart of Ireland’s future.

IMRO has gathered all the party commitments from their individual manifestos in one place, making it easier for you to make an informed decision. See below:

The Green Party

  • Expand the Basic Income for the Arts pilot programme.
  • Continue to increase Arts Council funding, now at record levels, including by establishing a new arts capital and equipment programme.
  • Support Local Authorities to provide more studios, practice spaces and workspaces for the creative community.
  • Allow for longer opening hours and reform event licensing to revitalise the nighttime economy.
  • Provide financial incentives for live venues to support the development of new creative acts.

Fianna Fáil

  • Build new Music Education Hubs so that more students can benefit from structured and sustained instruction in music;
  • Develop a new multi-year Capital Programme for National Arts Infrastructure and establish an Arts Capital and Equipment Programme for local and community arts;
  • Continue the section 481 film tax credit to support film and unscripted productions and examine options to introduce specific measures for the visual effects sector;
  • Retain the Basic Income for Artists Scheme and address access issued for disabled artists;
  • Support artists to access international opportunities through increased funding for Culture Ireland and support for our embassies to promote more bilateral exchanges;
  • Boost funding for the Touring of Work Scheme to facilitate regional presentations of professional productions and extend access to arts organisations and venues in Northern Ireland;
  • Increase financial support for the Creative Schools and Music Generation projects
  • Establish and fund and Irish Town of Culture programmes to support local creative projects;
  • Mandate each of the National Culture Institutions to develop a programme to Transition Year students;

Fine Gael

Arts in Education:

  • Ensure that every child has access to tuition in art, music, drama, or coding through an expanded Creative Schools programme, embedding creativity within the curriculum to develop diverse skills and cultural appreciation.

Supporting Artists and Expanding Creative Spaces

  • Increase Artist Workspaces, Support the redevelopment of sites like Dublin’s Odlum’s Flour Mills to create shared studios, rehearsal spaces, and performance venues, offering affordable spaces for artists to work and collaborate.
  • Expand Creative Spaces Across Ireland: Monitor and support local authorities in providing more studios and performance venues through the new pilot scheme, encouraging access to creative spaces nationwide.
  • Use Suitable Unoccupied Spaces for Arts: Partner with the OPW to make temporary use of vacant buildings as studios or performance spaces, providing flexible and accessible venues for artists.
  • Simplify Festival Organisation: Streamline licensing, traffic management, and insurance processes to facilitate festival planning, promoting vibrant, accessible events for communities.

Sustain Funding for the Arts:

  • Maintain and grow funding for the Arts Council, Culture Ireland, and other organisations that support both national and international artistic endeavours.
  • Continue the Basic Income for Artists: Advance and assess the Basic Income for Artists pilot to maximise its impact, supporting financial stability for artists and fostering a thriving cultural sector.
  • Introduce a €300 Culture Card for 16 and 17-yearolds to access theatre, music, and art events, making cultural experiences more accessible for young people.
  • Work with National Cultural Institutions to improve public access to Ireland’s collections through exhibitions, loans, and educational programmes, extending their reach to communities nationwide.
  • Encourage Late-Night Openings: Promote later opening hours at museums, galleries, and other cultural venues to offer flexible access for visitors.
  • Support Local and National Cultural Institutions: Continue grants for community-based cultural institutions and support large cultural centres, ensuring vibrant cultural opportunities across Ireland.
  • Redevelop the GPO as a Historic Landmark: Undertake a major redevelopment of the GPO preserving its historic importance and enhancing its role as a key cultural landmark in Dublin.
  • Fund the National Concert Hall: Provide sustained funding and support to further develop the National Concert Hall as a premier cultural venue.
  • Prioritise the Cork Events Centre: Drive the completion of the Cork Events Centre to enhance Cork’s cultural landscape and boost the city’s regeneration.
  • Support Creative Youth and Arts Diversity: Continue funding Creative Youth, ensuring inclusivity and access for young people of diverse backgrounds interested in the arts.
  • Expand Arts in Early Education: Introduce and expand arts programming in early childhood education and care settings, nurturing creativity from a young age. Fine Gael’s commitment to culture aims to make the arts accessible, celebrate Ireland’s history, and foster a dynamic cultural sector for future generations.

The Labour Party

Investing in the Arts: Labour will ensure that the Arts represent a viable career, and our artists can continue to contribute to our cultural and social landscape. Building on this funding we will:

  • Provide a permanent Basic Income for the Arts scheme and expand it to increase access, starting with younger artists. The pilot has been successful by providing economic security and facilitating creative freedom.
  • Deliver reforms to the tax and welfare system to better support artists with a living income, recognising their status often as freelance independent contractors, and their production and service costs.
  • Address barriers for disabled, LGBTQIA+ and ethnically diverse artists and art workers as recommended by the Safe to Create Amplify report.
  • Seek to expand Arts Council support to a broader range of artists.
  • Ensure proper enforcement of copyright law so that artists, be they writers, musicians, painters, composers or designers, benefit from the revenue streams arising from their work, and protect their intellectual property from AI.
  • Publish a comprehensive and inclusive National Music Strategy to bring stakeholders together and promote the continued growth and success of the Irish music industry and seek increased airtime for Irish artists on licensed radio stations.
  • Support the development of digital arts in the fields of audiovisual content, gaming, and animation.
  • Develop a new National Cultural policy framework for the next decade and increase funding for Culture Ireland.

SPACES FOR ARTISTS Our artists need more spaces. Culture can’t compete with capitalism. Labour has published a comprehensive plan to ensure active state support for saving and growing artists’ spaces. We will establish a new Cultural Infrastructure Company to work closely with local authorities to actively plan for and ensure the adequate provision of artists’ spaces and music venues across the country. We will:

  • Undertake a major expansion of the Space to Create scheme to support local authorities secure spaces.
  • Provide low-cost State-backed cultural mortgages and loans for artist organisations to purchase or retrofit buildings.
  • Introduce Cultural Conservation Orders on buildings after 20 years of established cultural use.
  • Allocate specific funding for emerging artists to access short term leases when required to qualify for Arts Council programme funding.
  • Apply a Culture/Social Use First policy for vacant publicly owned buildings not suitable for residential use.
  • Labour will actively promote the creation of artists’ cooperatives or other formal structures with targeted financial and administrative support and incentives to access leases and manage their own property over a sustained period.

 THE NIGHT ECONOMY Labour will develop a thriving night economy and expand existing initiatives to bring vibrancy back into our towns and cities’ nightlife. We will:

  • Give people greater choice in how they enjoy the nighttime and support cultural institutions to stay open later into the evening.
  • Reform licensing laws to allow for more flexibility in opening hours and the variety of places that can sell alcohol, create an annual nightclub licence, and transfer responsibility to the Department of Culture and Arts.
  • Review and update noise management regulations for a compatible and harmonious relationship between the night economy and urban residents.

BROADCASTING:

  • We will continue the principle of using Sound and Vision funds to promote climate action, live music broadcasting and Irish language content and expand it to include collective bargaining and trade union recognition.
  • Labour will increase investment through Screen Ireland to ensure the continued production of high-quality indigenous films, TV shows and documentaries, alongside the development of Irish performers and Irish language programming,
  • Labour will further review Section 481 to ensure it remains internationally competitive to support national and regional production and the inclusion of Irish music creators.

NEW IDEAS TO REVITALISE DUBLIN

  • Between Abbey Street, Bachelors Walk and Eden Quay there are laneways with low rise lockups that have become no-go areas with a lot of vacancy. Labour will seek to CPO parts of this area using our proposed Cultural Infrastructure Company to redevelop it as a new artists quarter and offer space for artist studios and cooperatives and creative startups, along with new affordable city centre accommodation for people working there.

Labour’s manifesto has extensive plans to support a thriving arts and culture sector. For Dublin a long-needed overhaul of licensing laws is essential to regenerate the nighttime economy. This will bring back vibrancy to the city centre and allow for experimentation with new experiences and venues. Labour will ensure this is progressed, and support longer opening hours for cultural institutions.

People Before Profit

  • Bring the funding for cultural services, broadcasting, and publishing services closer to the EU average of 0.9% of GDP;
  • Provide additional funding to the Arts Council to increase the support for the arts and in particular new media art forms such as for computer animation, digital art, and video games, and expand allocation of funding to more artists;
  • Make the Basic Income for the Arts pilot scheme permanent & expand the definition of artists to be eligible for funding to include most forms of creative arts;
  • Allocate funding to local councils specifically for cultural relevant art-related projects in local communities;
  • Open schools and colleges for after-school artistic activities for children and teenagers;
  • Open public spaces for use by local arts organisations;
  • Increase core funding for Youth Work with a substantial increase in 2025 to meet baselines costs;
  • Increase support to local community centres.

Sinn Féin

  • Implementing our 50-point “Poblacht na hÉireann, Poblacht na n-Ealaíon” plan for the arts. https://www.sinnfein.ie/files/2024/Poblacht_na_nEalai%CC%81on.pdf
  • Increasing funding to An Chomhairle Ealaíon (The Arts Council) by €60m providing multi-annual funding, and building on its work to create a more representative, decentralised, inclusive and democratic framework for the arts that serves communities nationwide
  • Increasing funding for Culture Ireland over a term in government v Continuing the three-year Basic Income for the Arts Pilot Scheme to completion and using the vital research to develop a sustainable and equitable long-term scheme
  • Expanding Catherine’s Law to exempt Disabled Artists from having arts bursaries and awards count against their social protection entitlements
  • Delivering an Arts Spaces Capital Programme based on the Sports Capital Grants, creating legal protection for existing cultural spaces, ensuring space for culture and nightlife is included in development planning, and developing a Cultural Workers Housing and Studio Space Pilot project
  • Developing a comprehensive policy for the Arts in Education from pre-school to third level and adult learning, expanding Creative Schools, restoring the School Libraries Fund, and delivering our Activity Card of €130 per child to support participation in arts and sports activities
  • Making space for visual art by examining the introduction of minimum art requirements for the public realm, championing architecture, designating one or more National Sculpture Gardens, expanding access to the state’s art collection, and enacting Eoin Ó Broin’s Public Art Mural Bill to exempt public art murals from planning permission
  • Building on the Strategy for Irish Language-based Arts to put Irish language and Gaelic traditional arts at the heart of policymaking and funding for each sector of the arts.
  • Recognising the artforms of comedy, musical theatre, storytelling, and fashion design, granting them access to Arts Council supports
  • Incorporating arts bulletins within the news service of public service broadcasters.
  • Examining ways to better enforce existing anti-tout legislation, bring dynamic pricing under control, and develop a platform to distribute tickets so that no seat is left empty
  • Reviewing what defines “Irish music” or “Irish cultural works” in terms of tax incentives, royalties, airtime, content requirements, and supports to ensure artists based in Ireland benefit most from such classification and achieve more Irish music on radio and in film
  • Increasing capital and current funding for Screen Ireland
  • Developing a long-term replacement for the Section 481 Regional Uplift, and make the Cultural Certificate required for the film tax relief conditional on compliance with Irish and EU copyright law and workers’ rights, ending the practice of ‘buy-out’ contracts, and equal treatment for Irish workers compared to colleagues on the same project
  • Exploring options for a dedicated tax relief for live theatre productions
  • Introducing a designated ‘night venue’ classification in licensing and planning law and update and modernise licensing laws and costs, considering the extension of trading hours in line with other European countries, expanding license access for cultural institutions and non-profits, and supporting late night entertainment in cafés and more options for alcohol-free events
  • Examining the impact of Artificial Intelligence on Culture and the Arts with a view to developing a policy at national level, and a coordinated response at European Union and international level, to safeguard the intellectual property rights and livelihoods of Irish artists, creators and performers, while strengthening the artists’ right to resale.

Social Democrats

  • Develop a roadmap for progressive increases in total arts funding, with a focus on current expenditure to practicing artists through the Arts Council and Culture Ireland.
  • Establish special commercial rates for creative/arts spaces and “rates holidays” for new projects.
  • Enhance supports for the Irish film and publishing industries.
  • Introduce multi-annual funding for essential arts organisations to allow for long-term planning decisions.
  • Introduce an annual Culture Voucher, worth €200, to encourage 18–24-year-olds to take part in cultural activities.
  • Encourage affordable live/workspaces for artists and creative practitioners.
  • Ensure the DSP/Intreo has a framework for understanding irregular/freelance work.
  • Ensure planning legislation takes cultural and creative spaces into account for all public developments.
  • Revitalise our night-time cultural economy by legislating for later opening hours for venues and bars, as well as further extending the hours of public transport systems.
  • Review our licensing laws, including the Public Dance Halls Act and the Theatre Licence, to ensure they are fit for purpose.
  • Support the establishment of Night Mayors in each of our major cities.
  • Invest in physical infrastructure needed in the Arts sector such as studios, galleries, theatres and workspaces.
  • Increase investment in Culture Ireland to enhance our global reputation and create more opportunities for Irish artists and international collaboration. We will also restore independent oversight of its organisation.
  • Use the findings from the Basic Income for Artists study to create a more permanent scheme to support artists financially.
  • Reform Section 15 tax breaks so that they do not unintentionally discriminate against Irish artists.
  • Extending the current Basic Income for Artists scheme and expand participation. Its criteria must also be reformed so that it doesn’t continue to effectively exclude disabled artists. It’s also worth noting that artists working in the live performance, film and other audiovisual sectors in France have a designated unemployment insurance scheme; the ‘Scheme for Intermittent Workers in the Performing Arts’, in English. In government, we will examine the possibility of a similar scheme for Ireland.
  • Ensure universal access to arts education at both primary and secondary levels.
  • Expand the Creative Schools programme and ensure it continues beyond the life of the Creative Ireland initiative.
  • Ensure all National Cultural Institutions take action to promote equality, diversity, inclusivity and accessibility.
  • Introduce Drama and Theatre Studies as a Leaving Cert subject.
  • Support the rebalancing of arts curricula to ensure a more equitable gender representation.
  • Provide an additional Arts budget for DEIS schools.
  • Sports and Activity Voucher – Too many young people are being priced out of playing a sport or learning a creative art. The Social Democrats is proposing a €150 Sports and Cultural Activity voucher for all children aged 6 to 18. This voucher would ensure that children get to participate in their chosen sport or activity for free or at a heavily subsidised price.

Johnny Duhan RIP

IMRO honours the life and legacy of Johnny Duhan, one of Ireland’s most respected songwriters, who has passed away.

Johnny’s career began in the 1960s with the band Granny’s Intentions, where his talent as a songwriter quickly emerged. He went on to build a solo career that spanned over five decades, during which he created a body of work that resonates with listeners both in Ireland and abroad. His songs, rooted in themes of love, family, faith, and the human experience, reflect his keen insights into the joys and challenges of life.

Perhaps his most famous work, “The Voyage,” has become a timeless piece in Irish music. Its lyrics liken life to a journey taken together, and the song’s message of resilience and unity has made it a favourite at weddings, gatherings, and celebrations. Widely covered and deeply loved, “The Voyage” remains a testament to Johnny’s ability to express universal themes through simple, evocative words and melodies.

Beyond his music, Johnny was an active member of IMRO and a strong advocate for songwriters and musicians. His dedication to the rights and recognition of Irish artists contributed to the growth of the music industry in Ireland, and his influence is evident in the work of many artists who followed in his footsteps.

Victor Finn, IMRO CEO “Johnny was a gentleman in every sense of the word and leaves behind an immense body of work. He will be sorely missed by his many friends in the creative community.

IMRO extends its condolences to Johnny Duhan’s family, friends, and fans.

Fontaines D.C. and Jordan Adetunji Nominated for 2025 Grammy Awards

Congratulations to IMRO members Fontaines D.C. and Jordan Adetunji on their nominations for the 67th Annual Grammy Awards.

Fontaines D.C. have earned two nominations in major categories:

  • Best Rock Album for their critically acclaimed album Romance.
  • Best Alternative Music Performance for their standout single, Starbuster.

This marks the second time the band has received a nomination for Best Rock Album, having previously been shortlisted in 2020 for their album A Hero’s Death.

Meanwhile, Jordan Adetunji‘s breakout hit Kehlani has also been nominated for Best Melodic Rap Performance, competing against Beyoncé, Latto, Future & Metro Boomin’, and Erykah Badu.

The 67th Annual Grammy Awards will be held on February 2, 2025.

IMRO Celebrates Investors in Diversity Silver Accreditation

IMRO is proud to announce that we have achieved Silver accreditation in the Investors in Diversity programme. This accolade highlights our ongoing commitment to fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace.

Investors in Diversity Silver goes beyond the foundational requirements of the Bronze level by amplifying the voices within our organisation. This model not only benchmarks our performance against other organisations and national standards but also provides valuable insights into our strengths and areas for growth.

Attainment Requirements for Investors in Diversity Silver:

  • Survey Rollout: Conducting an Investors in Diversity (IiD) survey for all colleagues.
  • Analysis: Survey results are analysed by the Irish Centre for Diversity (ICFD).
  • Benchmarking: Results are mapped against the Maturity Model and benchmarked nationally and by sector.
  • Demographics: Collecting diversity demographics of colleagues.
  • Reporting: A comprehensive report with recommendations is provided.
  • Presentation: A detailed presentation is delivered to organisational leaders.
  • Action Plan: Development of an action plan for ongoing improvements.

This Silver accreditation underscores our dedication to embedding inclusive practices across our operations and fostering a culture of fairness and belonging.

For more information about the Investors in Diversity programme, visit Irish Centre for Diversity.

Join us in celebrating this significant milestone as we continue to strive for excellence in diversity and inclusion.

Back to Black: The Timeless Allure of Vinyl Records

In an age where people now have instant access to nearly a century of recorded music right on their mobiles, the re-emergence of vinyl records seems as unlikely a comeback as rotary dial telephones. Yet the vinyl revival has happened and isn’t just a nostalgic nod to the past; it’s a cultural phenomenon, blending the memories of music fans of my vintage, with the eclectic tastes and search for ‘the real thing’ of younger buyers.

The Rise, Fall, and Rise Again of Vinyl

Vinyl records, the predominant music format from the 1950s to the 1980s, saw a massive decline with the advent of CDs in the 1980s, the rise of illegal file sharing and finally digital music platforms in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Compact discs promised durability and convenience, while digital formats and streaming services offered an unparalleled ease of access to virtually any song ever recorded. By the turn of the millennium, vinyl seemed destined for the bargain bins of charity shops along with copies of Jilly Cooper novels and old Victor annuals. (Ask yer Da!).

However, just as the last rites for vinyl were being read, something remarkable happened. Around 2007, sales of vinyl began to creep up. What started as a niche market for die-hard collectors and DJs quickly became mainstream. By 2020, vinyl sales had surpassed those of CDs for the first time since 1986, according to the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). The once-forgotten format was not just surviving—it was thriving.

Rediscovering the Attraction and Virtues of Vinyl

So, what’s behind this surprising revival? For many, vinyl records offer a tactile and auditory experience that digital formats simply can’t match. The ritual of handling a record, placing it on the turntable, and gently lowering the needle is special for many. The slight crackle as the needle hits the groove is a prelude to the richer, warm sound that follows.

As Jack White of The White Stripes said, “Vinyl is the real deal. I’ve always felt like until you buy the vinyl record, you don’t really own the album. And it’s not just me, a little pet thing, or some kind of retro romantic thing from the past. It is still alive.”

While I’m more at the ‘clothed ear’ end of the spectrum, I’m told by people who know these things that the analogue nature of vinyl allows for a wider dynamic range, providing a fuller, richer sound compared to the compressed audio of digital formats. This nuance in sound and the conscious choice to sit down and listen to a record is particularly appealing to audiophiles who often spend the price of a small car on their home audio systems.

Famous producer Rick Rubin encapsulates this sentiment: Listening is paying attention to those sounds, being present with them, being in communion with them. Though to say we listen with the ears, or the mind, might be a misconception. We listen with the whole body, our whole self. The difference can be noticed when listening to music through headphones instead of speakers.” (There’s a message in there too for why Radio is still so powerful as a communications medium.)

Who’s Buying Vinyl?

According to figures compiled for the Irish record industry, vinyl sales topped almost 400,000 units in 2023 – a figure that is likely to be matched again this year. Some people (like me!) are buying parts of their long-lost record collections all over again so it’s not surprising to see classics from artists such as Fleetwood Mac and Bob Marley appearing in the best sellers charts.

2023

Vinyl Album Market – Top 20

 

Posn Title Artist
1 1989 (TAYLOR’S VERSION) TAYLOR SWIFT
2 RUMOURS FLEETWOOD MAC
3 THE SHOW NIALL HORAN
4 SONGS OF SURRENDER U2
5 THE DARK SIDE OF THE MOON PINK FLOYD
6 SPEAK NOW (TAYLOR’S VERSION) TAYLOR SWIFT
7 UNREAL UNEARTH HOZIER
8 MIDNIGHTS TAYLOR SWIFT
9 SONDER DERMOT KENNEDY
10 DID YOU KNOW THAT THERE’S A TUNNEL UNDER LANA DEL REY
11 GUTS OLIVIA RODRIGO
12 LEGEND BOB MARLEY & THE WAILERS
13 FALSE LANKUM LANKUM
14 CUTS & BRUISES INHALER
15 AM ARCTIC MONKEYS
16 FOLKLORE TAYLOR SWIFT
17 GREATEST HITS BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN
18 IGOR TYLER THE CREATOR
19 HARRY’S HOUSE HARRY STYLES
20 FINE LINE HARRY STYLES

Having said this, the perceived profile of vinyl buyers is not “older white blokes with money and no social life”. On the contrary, the demographics are as diverse as the records themselves. As evidenced by the top selling vinyl albums last year, millennials and Gen Z are also flocking to vinyl for artists such as Taylor Swift, Harry Styles, Niall Horan and Hozier, to name just four. This younger audience, having grown up in the digital age, finds something unique given the tactile and purposeful joy of owning and playing a 12-inch disc.

Irish artists too, are generating a new revenue stream for their music thanks to the vinyl revival. Pressing vinyl is now much more accessible and affordable, with physical records having a greater perceived value and longevity than other formats and fans actually wanting to ‘own’ rather than ‘rent’ them.  In recent years this has led to the revival of the iconic, Claddagh Records label by Universal Music in Ireland.

Claddagh Records was founded in 1959 by Garech de Brún, to specialise in Irish traditional music and spoken word featuring artists like The Chieftains‘. It has now tapped into the ‘new trad’ boom with contemporary acts like Lemoncello, Niamh Bury and ØXN.

The Future

The vinyl revival shows no signs of abating. Many artists now release their music on vinyl using streaming as a teaser for the main event. The production of turntables has seen a technological upgrade, catering to both high-end audiophiles and entry-level enthusiasts – they’re even selling them in Lidl on occasion!

Moreover, vinyl’s comeback underscores a broader trend of seeking authenticity and tangible experiences in a digitally dominated world. Just as people are rediscovering the joys of printed books, handwritten letters, and even craft beer, vinyl records offer an antidote from the fleeting, intangible nature of digital consumption.

As Neil Young once said, Steve Jobs was a digital pioneer, but when he went home, he listened to vinyl.

So, whether you’re a lifelong vinyl devotee or a curious newcomer, there’s no denying the magic that a spinning record can bring. So, turn on, drop the needle, and let the music play.

Peter McPartlin is co-founder of freelance talent business, The Indie List, former CEO of Today FM and chair of the IMRO Radio Awards.

Bobbi Fallon Set to release Most Vulnerable Art to Date on September 19th with ‘I’m Not Coming Home’

Bobbi Fallon invites you to join her journey of self-exploration through soulful melodies, richly textured harmonies and pulsating rhythms. Her passion for her craft runs deep and can be felt in the marriage of notes and words. Bobbi’s greatest purpose is being a vessel of understanding and inspiration for her audience by creating an environment of self-nurture and exploration through her musical expressions.

Bobbi Fallon’s essence shines brightly in the musical world she has created where emotions flow like a river, and connections are forged like precious jewels. She began her journey at 11-years-old after falling in love with the saxophone, she continued to teach herself piano and soon after drew great inspiration from 1950s jazz legends. A scholarship to Berklee College of Music in 2017 elevated her artistry and craft, leading her to be featured on hits like “One Night” and “Reasons,” which boast over 4.1 million Spotify streams.

It brings Bobbi so much joy to connect with other people and when these connections turn into songs, that’s when magic is created. This is how the story went when young Dutch producer Isam Hadjih reached out to Bobbi with a beat that became the perfect puzzle piece to her already written “I’m Not Coming Home”. Bobbi inserted her top line onto Isam’s beat and it was a match made in musical heaven. This collaboration epitomises the wonderful gifts life throws at you when you’re open to receiving and listening. It is an empowering self-love track that will get you grooving whilst realising your worth.

As Bobbi Fallon prepares to release her most vulnerable art to date, she invites you to connect on a deeper level. Get ready to be enchanted by Bobbi Fallon’s beauty, passion, and music.

‘I’m Not Coming Home’ is out on September 19th 2024. Pre-save now at: alignedmoons.com/inch-drop

Recent news and tour updates | Link to EPK

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GreenTechHQ and IMRO: Paving the Way for Sustainable Business Practices

A groundbreaking collaboration between GreenTechHQ and IMRO has been announced, aimed at driving sustainable business practices across the industry. This partnership leverages the innovative GreenTechHQ sustainable business programme, run in association with ENSO, to develop a detailed sustainability roadmap tailored for IMRO.

Why This Partnership Matters

GreenTechHQ specialises in supporting SMEs by embedding resilience, productivity, and innovation into their business models. Their goal is to help companies not only survive but thrive in a rapidly changing world, where sustainability is not just an option but a necessity. With IMRO, GreenTechHQ is committed to creating a sustainable future that balances profitability with environmental responsibility.

Role and Vision

The collaboration with IMRO focuses on providing tailored support to SMEs, guiding them through the complexities of sustainability while optimizing for growth and profitability. The platform is designed to simplify and accelerate the business journey, ensuring alignment with the latest CSRD reporting requirements.

How This is Achieved

Through the partnership with ENSO, an ESG integrity and impact platform, GreenTechHQ offers a range of CPD-accredited training programmes, one-to-one consultancy, and access to an online reporting platform. All these resources are aimed at fast-tracking sustainable adaptation and development within businesses. The winning online sustainability strategy and communications platform complements these training offerings, providing businesses with the tools they need to succeed.

Join the Journey

The potential of this partnership is promising, and GreenTechHQ looks forward to sharing the progress. Together with IMRO, GreenTechHQ is committed to leading the way in sustainable business practices, helping companies navigate their sustainability journey with confidence and clarity.

Stay tuned for more updates on joint initiatives and how they can benefit businesses.

HousePlants Share ‘No Stopping Me’ (Daithí Remix) Ahead of Show with Leftfield this Friday

Ahead of their Galway International Arts Festival show this Friday,

Supporting one of the UK’s most revered dance acts, Leftfield,

HOUSEPLANTS

SHARE NEW REMIX FOR

‘NO STOPPING ME’ (DAITHÍ REMIX)

In anticipation of their performance at the Galway International Arts Festival this weekend, HousePlants share a vibrant new version of their beloved track, ‘No Stopping Me’, remixed by Daithí.

This Friday, 19th July, HousePlants will warm the stage for one of the UK’s most revered dance acts, Leftfield, who headline the festival at the Heineken® Big Top.

Daithí expresses his excitement about the remix and performing it live:

“‘No Stopping Me’ is one always one of my favourite moments in our live shows. There’s such a communal moment when an audience is singing ‘When I hit my stride, there’ll be no stopping me’, you can feel the defiance and the excitement build. I’ve been playing a version of it in my own solo shows and wanted to make a snapshot of it in this current time, something fun to remember this year by.

We’re super excited to be playing the big top this year with Leftfield, the Arts festival is the best time to see Galway City, the place feels alive, and we always have such a fun time playing there.”

Formed in 1988, Leftfield was originally comprised of Neil Barnes and Paul Daley. Leftfield’s legendary live performances, paired with seminal albums “Leftism” (1995) and “Rhythm & Stealth” (1999)—both Mercury Music Prize nominees—solidified their position as true pioneers. The group went on hiatus in 2002 before returning in 2010 for live appearances, now led solely by Barnes.

HousePlants, following their acclaimed 2021 Choice Prize-nominated album ‘Dry Goods’ and the 2022 EP ‘Seaglass’, are back with a new album set for release later this year.

Galway International Arts Festival and Róisín Dubh present Leftfield, with special guests HousePlants, this Friday 19th July at the Heineken Big Top. Doors open 7pm. https://www.giaf.ie/festival/event/leftfield

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