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The Brand New Studio Album from Moonchild Sanelly is out Now! on Transgressive Records

Moonchild Sanelly is staking a claim on 2025 and kicking off the year with the release of her highly anticipated third studio album, Full Moon. OUT NOW! Listen HERE. 

Full Moon is the third studio album from the self-described musical shapeshifter, exhibiting Moonchild Sanelly’s lyrical prowess and liberating energy. Recorded in Malawi, the UK and Sweden, and produced by Johan Hugo (Self Esteem, MIA, Kano), it is a collection of 12 tracks showcasing Sanelly’s unique sonic fingerprint, joyous attitude, distinctive vocals and genre-bending hit-making prowess. Full Moon’s club-ready beats oscillate between electronic, afro-punk, edgy-pop, kwaito, and hip-hop sensibilities, including tracks Do My Dance, Scrambled Eggs, To Kill a Single Girl (Tequila) and Big Booty. 

The album release comes with a brand new video for latest single, the beautifully melodic track ‘Falling’ watch HERE. Shot in Johannesburg last month, it is co-directed by Jesse Roth and Lauren Roth de Wolf and features an appearance by Moonchild’s eldest daughter Artemis. 

Moonchild said – “I can’t believe it’s 2025 and I can finally share with you my most personal, raw and honest record ever, which is OUT TODAY!!”, adding “I called this album FULL MOON because it’s ALL of me.”

She went on to say – “My last album Phases showed you the different sides of me one at a time and FULL MOON is all of me, lit up in my entirety.  FULL MOON is the arrival of my whole self, the sum of everything I’ve gone through & every emotion I had to feel… Childhood trauma, fights, letdowns, abandonment, sadness, survival, getting back up, letting go, forgiving, accepting and rebuilding everything for me and for my kids.  So here I am, a FULL Moon – and I’m so excited to share my whole self in this record, but also on my UK tour in March. See you on the road Boobeams!“

Moonchild will take her incomparably joyous live show on the road this Spring with a headline tour of the UK and Ireland kicking off in Manchester on 18th March, with dates in Dublin, Leeds, Glasgow, Birmingham and Bristol, before a return to London for what promises to be an unforgettable night at Village Underground on 26th March. See below for a full list of all tour dates, plus tickets and information here.

Full Moon is the third studio album from the self-described musical shapeshifter.  Recorded in Malawi, the UK and Sweden, and produced by Johan Hugo (Self Esteem, MIA, Kano), it is a collection of 12 tracks showcasing Sanelly’s unique sonic fingerprint, joyous attitude, distinctive vocals and genre-bending hit-making prowess. Full Moon’s club-ready beats oscillate between electronic, afro-punk, edgy-pop, kwaito, and hip-hop sensibilities.

Moonchild kicked off her return in May with the release of first single and “audacious anthem” [CLASH] Scrambled Eggs, with two further singles Sweet & Savage – which premiered with an exclusive show for COLORSxSTUDIOS – and the “infectiously tongue-in-cheek hit’ [DIY] Big Booty lighting up the crowds at festivals across Europe, including ten shows at Glastonbury alone. Album track Gwara Gwara has been included on the EA Sports FC25 Soundtrack, listen HERE. Recent single Do My Dance saw the trailblazing South African ghetto-funk superstar further revealing the breadth, scope and ambition of Full Moon. High octane and anthemic,  the song bounces across styles and tempos, with rapid-fire verses underpinned by a Happy hardcore beat, bursting into a bright, bold singalong chorus. Watch Moonchild perform Do My Dance on Later… with Jools Holland last month – HERE.

The video for recent single ‘To Kill a Single Girl (Tequila)’  – “a sweepingly melodic power ballad about the dangers of alcohol-fuelled truth-telling” [THE TIMES] – was shot in London last November  during a stop on her recent whirlwind UK club tour. Watch HERE.

Last summer also saw the release of  Big Man, a collaboration with the acclaimed artist Self Esteem which was hailed a Song of the Summer 2024 by The Guardian, a track which saw the “alt-pop future superstars” team up for “a big, buoyant, ball-buster…”; as well as Mad (ft. Moonchild Sanelly) which saw her join creative forces with Steve Aoki,  and most recently Streets Is Calling with Ezra Collective and M.anifest.

The tracklisting for Full Moon is:

  1. Scrambled Eggs
  2. Big Booty
  3. In My Kitchen
  4. To Kill a Single Girl (Tequila)
  5. Do My Dance
  6. Falling
  7. Gwara Gwara
  8. Boom
  9. Sweet & Savage
  10. I Love People
  11. Mntanami
  12. I Was the Biggest Curse

Full Moon is available in the following formats: CD; Digital Download; and Limited Edition Glow-in-the-dark Vinyl LP

Order / save Full Moon HERE

 

UK & EU Tour Dates 2025

12 March                            VooDoo Club, WARSAW, PO

14 March                            Musicbox, LISBON, PT

15 March                            Astin, BARCELONA, ES

17 March                            Clwb Ifor Bach, CARDIFF, UK

18 March                            YES (The Pink Room), MANCHESTER, UK

20 March                            The Grand Social, DUBLIN, Ireland

21 March                            The Wardrobe, LEEDS, UK

22 March                             King Tut’s, GLASGOW, UK

24 March                            Hare & Hounds, BIRMINGHAM, UK

25 March                            Strange Brew, BRISTOL, UK (SOLD-OUT)

26 March                            Village Underground, LONDON, UK

 

Festival Dates 2025

1 June                      Mighty Hoopla, London, UK

26 July                    Deer Shed, Topcliffe, UK

27 July                    Truck Festival, Abingdon, UK

2 August                Kendal Calling, Kendal, UK

28 -31 August       End Of The Road, Dorset, UK

 

“What’s Xhosa for brat?”

 THE OBSERVER

★★★★★

“Full Moon spins the sounds of Johannesburg and Durban into distinctive, abrasive electro-pop… [Moonchild Sanelly]… sex-positive South African swaggers towards stardom”

THE GUARDIAN

★★★★☆

“[Full Moon] is music that demands attention, rewards repeated listens, and proves that the future of pop isn’t just bright – it’s blindingly brilliant.”

DORK

★★★★★

“Full Moon is an utter joy… the perfect balance of bold, brash and unabashed.”

THE SKINNY 

★★★★☆

“Replete with numerous full-on bangers, [Full Moon] is a party-focussed force for good and a body positive statement of empowerment all at once.”

CLASSIC POP 

★★★★☆

“South African superstar-in-waiting Moonchild Sanelly melds pop, kwaito and hip hop on her exuberant third album, Full Moon”

THE OBSERVER

“…the funk-pop diva we need right now.”

THE TIMES 

For tickets and information, visit https://www.moonchildsanelly.com/#gigs

 

Bren Berry’s Debut Solo Album is a Love Letter to Music & Life

Bren Berry releases his debut solo album In Hope Our Stars Align on Jan 31st, 2025.

It is available on vinyl, CD or digital formats from all good record shops, Bandcamp or directly at https://brenberry.ie

The twelve songs on the album cover personal reflections on family, friendship, home, love, Dublin, resilience, music and creativity, and address some of the social and political crises that we are living through in these troubled times.

“I think of the album as a collection of love letters and protest songs which are layered with hope and an intentional sense of positivity. The album title is taken from “Fire Drill” and is inspired by Seamus Heaney’s lines “hope and history rhyme” and “hope for a great sea- change” from The Cure At Troy.”

The lead single from the album, “Bullet Proof” follows a lineage of widescreen, Americana classics like “Wichita Lineman” and “Everybody’s Talkin’.” It’s a lonesome love song seen through the lens of a down-on-his-luck and out-of-his-depth musician laden with infectious hooks, layers of zinging guitars and majestic strings. The rolling narrative finds Berry – tongue firmly in cheek – singing about love, booze, unpaid bills, landlords, sex, dancing, cars, tattoos, bullets and an iconic cast including Paul Newman, Frank Sinatra, Phil Lynott, Jimi Hendrix, Brando, McQueen, Johnny Cash, Bruce Lee and the Wrecking Crew.

“Bullet Proof” follows the current piledriving, environmentalist anthem “Knives (Heavy Metal Rain)” and a string of glorious big-hearted singles including “Winter Song,” “Hairpin Bends,” “Beautiful Losers,” “Come Alive,” and “Turn On Your Radio” – all of which lit up Irish airwaves with glistening choruses, addictive riffs, and a rare contemplative soulfulness.

In Oct 2020, Berry oversaw the release of a remastered vinyl edition of his band Revelino’ s self-titled 1994 debut album which stirred much excitement and went straight to No 1 in the Irish Indie Charts. Enthused by this enduring love for Revelino’s music, guitarist/backing vocalist Bren Berry did something he hadn’t done in a very long time, dusting off his guitars and slowly beginning to channel his reflections into intimate songs.

Song writing has always been an elusive mystery to me and I could never find my own singing voice. I was reading Bob Dylan’s Chronicles on his 80th birthday, and decided that, rather than murdering one of his songs, I would honour the occasion by trying to finally crack the songwriting code. Something told me to drop the register of my voice, and everything just clicked into place for me. I found my voice in every sense of the word and wrote my first complete song – Black Satellite – which is a tribute to Dylan and New York and the great times my wife and I have had in that city including spending our honeymoon in the legendary Chelsea Hotel. I quickly followed it up with Bullet Proof and wrote around twenty songs over the following eighteen months.

I have no doubt that being surrounded by so many amazing musicians and so many great people in the music industry has rubbed off on me and resulted in an osmosis of some kind that has led to this creative breakthrough for me.”

The album was produced by Berry and Gavin Glass in Orphan Studios and mixed and mastered by Daniel James Goodwin in The Isokon, New York and Virginia. “I am extremely grateful to Gavin and Daniel who raised the bar so high and helped to make this record sound so great. Gavin also added so much of his musical brilliance along with a host of other amazing musicians including Binzer Brennan, Marc McCausland, Ciaran Tallon, Gavin Fox, Joe Doyle, Simon Farrell, Ciaran Byrne, Yvonne Tiernan, Rachel Grace, Danny Anderson and Martin McCann. Cormac Curran also arranged stunning strings for four of my songs which were performed by the wonderful Orphan Strings. I still can’t believe I’ve made a record after all this time away from making music. I feel very lucky to hit this creative streak and I gave the album everything. I am also so grateful to everyone who has been there for me along the way.”

Creators from across Europe met MEPs and EVP Virkkunen to call for urgent action on AI and streaming

Executive Vice-President Virkkunen joined MEPs and over 30 renowned creators—such as IMRO Chairperson Eleanor McEvoy, DJ Reinier Zonneveld and singer-songwriters Marika, Yael Naim and Pernille Rosendahl—at the European Parliament yesterday evening to discuss issues severely impacting the creative sector.

The event, called Meet the Authors and organised by GESAC (the association of European authors’ societies), was co-hosted by MEPs Michael McNamara, Laurence Farreng, Marcos Ros Sempere, and Bogdan Zdrojewski. It brought creators together with policymakers to discuss issues impacting their livelihoods and a how to construct mutually beneficial future for innovation and creation in Europe to support cultural and creative industries – one of Europe’s most globally competitive sectors.

Topping the agenda were issues to do with generative AI, exploitative buy-out contracts, and transparency and fairness in the streaming market.

Authors and their collective management organisations (CMOs) call for a meaningful implementation of the AI Act to ensure generative AI companies’ transparency and adherence to EU legislation. This would entail AI companies that use copyright protected works obtaining licences from CMOs.

Zonneveld said: “There’s war going on in Europe and some people may think ‘why should we save a bunch of creatives and musicians?’ But culture is a cornerstone of society, especially in times like these. I think we should find ways to use AI to empower people to do better things than they could before, but in a way that protect human creation.”

MEPs recalled the several initiatives taken and efforts given by the EP as regards creators’ challenges vis-à-vis global major AI and streaming platforms and expressed their expectations of dedicated EU-wide solutions from the European Commission.

MEP Farreng said: “Culture is at the heart of the European project and creators are its very source. The European Parliament expects that the Commission takes the needed steps to properly implement the AI Act and propose the dedicated legislation on buy-outs and music streaming that are critical for creators and have already been asked by several Parliamentary resolutions.”

MEP McNamara said: “While it presents many exciting new opportunities, it cannot be allowed result in the sacrificing of creators who feed the models being developed by generative AI companies. The priority should be the creation of a sustainable and healthy licensing market.”

MEP Sempere says: “We recall the European Parliament’s January 2024 resolution, which asked for more fairness, transparency, and cultural diversity in streaming. Proposed reforms included making algorithms transparent and ensuring European works are more discoverable – steps that would fix existing imbalances and give music creators a fair stake in the streaming economy.”

MEP Zdrojewski says: “Buy-out contracts severely undermine the livelihoods of our European creators, tilting the balance of power in favour of global VOD platforms. The European Parliament has condemned these practices and called for legislative action. It’s crucial that the European Commission enforces rules for fair remuneration and prevents these exploitative contracts from bypassing EU protections.”

Eleanor McEvoy, Irish songwriter and singer said:” Buy-out contracts undermine European creators’ livelihoods and perpetuate power imbalances with global video-on-demand platforms. The EU must introduce laws that prevent these coercive practices and ensure that platforms outside the EU cannot bypass Europe’s rules and protections. It’s time for EU policymakers to take action to tackle coercive buy-outs.”

GESAC’s President, David El Sayegh, says: As AI continues to evolve, it raises questions about its impact on human creativity. The main political perspective should be that creators and their works are protected in this rapidly changing environment. Collective licensing plays a vital role in this mission and offers the best solution facilitating access to broad and diverse repertoires, providing legal certainty, generating appropriate remuneration and preserving cultural diversity.”

Adriana Moscoso del Prado, General Manager of GESAC, says: “We are encouraged by the fact that so many MEPs, and EVP Virkkunen, took part in Meet the Authors, and by hearing their concerns, their vision for Europe, and the support they’ve pledged to achieving our common objectives. The creator community is watching what EU decision-makers do next very closely, knowing that it will be decisive for their professional future. As the link between creators and the users of their work, authors’ societies are well-positioned to play a vital role in shaping future European policy on copyright and innovation.”

Find out more about these key issues affecting European creators and the cultural and creative industries here.


About GESAC

GESAC groups 32 of the largest authors’ societies in the European Union, Iceland, Norway and Switzerland. They defend and promote the rights of more than 1 million creators and rights holders in the areas of music, audiovisual works, visual arts, and literary and dramatic works.

photo credit: Alohafred

Dee Armstrong Unveils New Album Deichtine’s Daughter, Out February 28, 2025

Dee Armstrong is a self-taught multi-instrumentalist, composer, and a vibrant presence in Irish music for over three decades. Best known as a member of the legendary band Kíla since 1991, Dee’s electrifying performances showcase her mastery of the fiddle, viola, hammered dulcimer, banjo, bodhrán, and tuned percussion.

Hailing from a deeply musical family, Dee’s legacy resonates across generations. Her children—Tiggy, Diarmuid, Lughaidh, and Rosie Armstrong—carry forward this tradition, with
Diarmuid (5-string banjo) and Lughaidh (guitar) lending their talents to her upcoming solo album. Dee’s creative influence extends beyond music. Over 30 years with Kíla, she has played a key role in visual artistry, designing the band’s projections, sets, and album artwork—a testament to her holistic approach to storytelling.

Outside Kíla, Dee’s musical journey spans collaborations with groups like The Free Speaking Monkey (since 2015) and the Armagh Rhymers (from 2024), as well as composing for solo projects,
theatre, and radio. Her work has also left a mark in film, contributing to award-winning soundtracks with composer Bruno Coulais for Cartoon Saloon’s animated masterpieces: The Secret of Kells, Song of the Sea (featuring Lisa Hannigan), and Wolfwalkers (in collaboration with Aurora).

Recently, Dee was awarded a Music Bursary and Traditional Arts Project Award from the Arts Council, supporting her second solo album and a documentary on North Leitrim musician Micheál
Clancy, “Man of a Thousand Tunes”. From acclaimed scores to her 2022 theatre work, Under the Night Sky, Dee continues to weave traditional and contemporary influences into a dynamic body of work.

Upcoming Solo Album

Dee Armstrong’s highly anticipated solo album, arriving in early 2025, highlights her signature blend of tradition and innovation. Recorded at her home in Boihy, Co. Leitrim, and self-produced, the album features original compositions alongside select collaborations: “Prince of Laughter” (co-composed with Bobby Lee) and “Yon Do” (a traditional piece arranged with Fraolach).

Featured Musicians:

● Dee Armstrong: Fiddle, viola, banjo, hammered dulcimer, string arrangements, vocals
● Bobby Lee: Acoustic guitars
● Lughaidh Armstrong: Electric guitar
● Rick Epping: Harmonica
● Frank Tate: Bouzouki
● Ronan Ó Snodaigh: Bodhrán
● Peter Browne: Accordion
● Miriam Ingram & Frances Cranny: Harmony vocals

Promising intricate storytelling and rich musical textures, Dee’s forthcoming album reflects her deep-rooted connection to Ireland’s traditions while embracing a contemporary edge

TOUR DATES:
To celebrate the launch of the album, Dee Armstrong will perform live shows across Ireland.

See her at:

IRELAND:

Feb 1 – The Glens Centre – Leitrim – Tickets
Feb 8 – Féile Bríde – Kildare (Daytime show) – Tickets
Feb 8 – Monroes – Galway – Tickets
Feb 15 – Aonach Mhaca – Armagh
Mar 1 – Hawk’s Well Theatre – Sligo – Tickets
Mar 2 – The Sugar Club – Dublin – Tickets 
Mar 7 – Dolan’s – Limerick – Tickets
Mar 8 – Coughlan’s – Cork – Tickets
Mar 9 – Connolly’s of Leap – Cork
Mar 15 – Seamus Ennis Arts Centre – Dublin
Mar 16 – Cleere’s – Kilkenny
Apr 26 – Townhall – Cavan

Connect with Dee Armstrong: Website | Instagram

The Stage Is Set: 15 Songs and Judges Announced for Pan Celtic National Contest 2025

The finalists have been announced! The judges have been announced! And Carlow is gearing up for the  final of the Pan Celtic National Song Contest ‘25

The gala event will take place in the GB Shaw Theatre @ Visual on Saturday, 25 January at 8pm.

From a total of more than 30 entries submitted, 15 newly composed songs in the Irish language have been shortlisted for the live final and the finalists will go head-to -head for the top prize of €1,000 as well as the chance to represent Ireland next April at the Pan Celtic International Song Contest ‘25. The judges this year will be:

  • John Spillane (singer, songwriter and musician.);
  • Louise Cantillon (tv and radio personality and presenter of the Louise Cantillon lunchtime show on Today FM)
  • Shannon Redmond presenter on Kclr96fm and participant on Éadaí SOS on TG4

 The 15 songs which have made it to the final cross a number of styles and genres ranging from rock, pop and folk to traditional and classical making for what promises to be a most enjoyable event.

Musical director as usual will be Carlow’s own Ollie Hennessy backed by the magnificent Pan Celtic House Band. The song contest is organized by Pan Celtic Carlow in association with Carlow County Council and supported by  IMRO, Foras na Gaeilge, Gael Linn, an tOireachtas and Glór Cheatharlach.

Three prizes will be awarded on the night, €100 for third place, €200 for second place with the top prize of €1,000 and the Pan Celtic National Song Contest trophy going to the overall winning song.  The winning song will go on to represent Ireland at the International Song Contest which will take place during the Pan Celtic International Festival in Carlow next April.

Tickets for the not to be missed event on 25 January cost €15 from boxoffice@nullvisualcarlow.ie or 059 9172400 and will also be available on the night. Doors will open at 7pm with the show kicking off at 8pm. The event is expected to be a sellout and a fantastic evening’s entertainment is guaranteed.

Entries for The Ivors 2025: Open Now!

The Ivors, celebrating excellence in music creation, is now accepting entries for 2025 in seven prestigious categories:

Categories:

  • Best Album
  • Best Song Musically and Lyrically
  • Best Contemporary Song
  • Best Film Score
  • Best Video Game Score
  • Best Television Soundtrack
  • Rising Star Award with Amazon Music

Eligibility Criteria:

  • Release Period: Works must have been released in the UK between 1 January and 31 December 2024.
  • Authorship Requirement: At least 33.3% British or Irish authorship is required. Contributions from non-British or Irish creators are accepted if they resided in the UK for all of 2024.

Key Details:

  • Entry Deadline: 17th January 2025
  • Entry Fee: £150 + VAT per entry
    • Discounts for Ivors Academy Members:
      • 75% off for Professional members – £15 per entry
      • 50% off for Standard members – £75 per entry
    • Discounts apply only if entrants are members at the time of entry and submit entries themselves. Third-party submissions are charged at full price.

Rising Star Award:

  • No Entry Fee
  • Eligibility: Applicants must be aged 18–24, of British, Irish, or UK residency throughout 2024, and members of The Ivors Academy.
    • Join as an Early Career member (under 25) at a discounted rate for access.

How to Enter:

  • Submit your entry and review the rules and guidelines here.

Global economic study shows human creators’ future at risk from generative AI

The first ever global study measuring the economic impact of AI in the music and audiovisual sectors calculates that Generative AI will enrich tech companies while substantially jeopardising the income of human creators in the next five years.

This is one of the key findings of the study commissioned by CISAC (International Confederation of Societies of Authors and Composers, representing over 5 million creators), and conducted by PMP Strategy.

DOWNLOAD THE STUDY

DOWNLOAD THE EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

While the revenues of Gen AI providers will see dramatic growth over the next five years, creators risk losing a large share of their current income due to AI’s substitutional impact on human-made works. Despite providing the creative fuel of the “Gen AI” content market, music and audiovisual creators will see respectively 24% and 21% of their revenues at risk of loss by 2028. This amounts to a cumulative loss of €22 billion over the 5-year period (€10 billion in music; €12 billion in audiovisual).

The study finds that the market for music and AV content generated by AI will increase exponentially in the next five years, growing from around €3 billion now to €64 billion in 2028.

The economic study assesses that, as a result of this exponential growth in the market for music and  audiovisual content, the future revenues of Gen AI providers will rise to annual revenues of €4 billion in music (up from €0.1 billion in 2023) and €5 billion in audiovisual (up from €0.2 billion) by 2028. These are revenues derived directly from the unlicensed reproduction of creators’ works, representing a transfer of economic value from creators to AI companies.

In the music sector, the streaming and music library markets will be strongly impacted by AI. By 2028, Gen AI music is projected to account for approximately 20% of traditional music streaming platforms’ revenues, and around 60% of music libraries’ revenues.

The projected revenue loss will also be substantial for audiovisual creators. Translators and adaptors for dubbing and subtitling will experience the strongest impact, with 56% of their revenue at risk, while screenwriters and directors could see their revenues cannibalised by 15 to 20%.

The study’s key takeaway

The study concludes: “In an unchanged regulatory framework, creators will actually suffer losses on two fronts: the loss of revenues due to the unauthorised use of their works by Gen AI models without remuneration; and replacement of their traditional revenue streams due to the substitution effect of AI-generated outputs, competing against human-made works”.

CISAC President Björn Ulvaeus has welcomed the study as a guideline to policy makers in legislative debates around the world. “For creators of all kinds, from songwriters to film directors, screenwriters to film composers, AI has the power to unlock new and exciting opportunities – but we have to accept that, if badly regulated, generative AI also has the power to cause great damage to human creators, to their careers and livelihoods. Which of these two scenarios will be the outcome? This will be determined in large part by the choices made policy makers, in legislative reviews that are going on across the world right now. It’s critical that we get these regulations right, protect creators’ rights and help develop an AI environment that safeguards human creativity and culture.”

CISAC Director General Gadi Oron said: “CISAC commissioned this study from PMP Strategy to show the enormous value that copyright works bring to Gen AI companies. Its conclusions point to a fundamental flaw that is opening up in the market, with creators’ works being unfairly and unethically appropriated to boost the revenues of Gen AI providers, while leaving the creators themselves out of this growth. There is a critical message here for policy makers: they must act urgently to safeguard human creators, culture and creativity. They must ensure that human creators are protected, can exercise their legal rights and can demand transparency from AI services. With these principles enshrined in the AI environment, this can be a win-win for creators and the tech industry rather than a threat to our culture and creative sector”.

CISAC Vice-President, film director and screenwriter Ángeles González-Sinde Reig said: “This study highlights the need for ethical and economically sound policies that put creators’ rights at the very centre of the AI world. AI tools can profoundly support our work as story tellers and film makers. But there is an enormous anxiety that in the rush to exploit and monetise generative AI, creators will be treated like an afterthought, lacking the right to authorise uses of their work, unprotected by transparency rules and unable to receive fair remuneration. We must not forget that it is human creators who provide the fuel of the AI world and who must be at the centre of policy making and regulation”.

Marcelo Castello Branco, CISAC Board Chair and CEO of Brazil’s UBC said: “Our sector has adapted to whatever new technology comes our way, but with generative AI we find ourselves in uncharted territory as the disruption goes to the very core of the creative process, not just its distribution channels. We stand ready to embrace these changes, but let there be no doubt: our foremost priority is to protect the livelihoods of our member creators. We are committed to ensuring that they can continue their vital work and sharpen their craft without compromise. Together, we will navigate this landscape, safeguarding the rights and opportunities of those who drive real and human innovation and creativity”.

Background and methodology

The study is the first of its kind to estimate the economic impact of Gen AI on creators of music and audiovisual productions on a global level. It combines qualitative and quantitative research, using Gen AI application case studies to identify areas of greatest impact and converting these into economic estimates on the market penetration of Gen AI services and the revenue losses to creators. It also provides estimates of Generative AI tools and services’ revenues that can serve as basis to calculate remuneration schemes for creators.

The historical figures and forecast assumptions are based on market data, relevant benchmarks and extensive interviews with industry experts: Collective Management organisations (CMOs), creators, tech players, producers, publishers, DSPs, institutional players representative of these industries, and public institutions.

2FM Announces line-up of Rising Artists for 2025

RTÉ 2FM has today announced the eagerly anticipated list of 2FM Rising Artists for 2025. Chosen each year by a panel of experts, the class of 2025 are Amble, Annie-Dog, BOLD LOVE, CamrinWatsin, Celaviedmai, Cliffords, ESSIRAY, F3miii, Fortúne Igiebor and Pastiche.

All ten selection artists were announced today on The Tracy Clifford Show and 2FM will champion them all through the next year with particular focus on the acts unveiling exclusive new music and interviews during Rising Week which takes place from Monday 2nd December to Sunday 8th December.

Adam Fogarty, Director of Music at RTÉ 2FM said: “2FM is delighted to announce our 2FM Rising list for 2025. Now in its 8th year (since its inception in 2018) our ambition is to continue to build on 2FM’s rich history of supporting Irish artists and music. Building on the legacy of 2FM Rising – that in recent years has brought you acts such as Dermot Kennedy, Denise Chaila, For Those I Love, Fontaines DC, Jafaris, Pillow Queens, Kojaque, Biig Piig, Monjola, Gemma Dunleavy, Sello, Aby Coulibaly, Chubby Cat, Jordan Adetunji, New Dad, 49th & Main and many more – we remain committed to bringing our audiences exciting new Irish acts that are helping shape the future of Irish music. We’re very excited for another great year in Irish music and to bring 2FM Rising to audiences in 2025.” 

Previous 2FM Rising artists also include Lyra, The Murder Capital and Wild Youth. For details on the all of this year’s artists visit: www.rte.ie/2fmrising

Director of Marketing & Membership Development with IMRO, Keith Johnson added: “IMRO is delighted to once again partner with RTÉ 2FM Rising to support Ireland’s next generation of musical talent. The Rising initiative has become a vital springboard for artists, offering them the resources and exposure needed to reach new audiences. In 2025, we’re excited to see these incredible songwriters and musicians bring their unique sounds to listeners across Ireland and beyond.”

Oisin Leech’s debut solo album Cold Sea announced as Cerys Mathews’ Album Of The Year at BBC 6 Music

Oisin Leech’s debut solo album Cold Sea has been announced today as Cerys Mathews’ Album Of The Year at BBC 6 Music.

The prestigious award adds to the album’s already growing critical acclaim. On the week of December 16th BBC 6 Music will be playing tracks from the album and looking more in depth at the Cold Sea album.

Cold Sea was released in March this year on Outside Music and Tremone Records. It was produced and recorded in Donegal by Brooklyn based musician Steve Gunn. Written and performed by Oisin Leech the album also features contributions from many luminaries including Dónal Lunny, Tony Garnier (Bob Dylan’s long time bassist) M Ward and Roisin McGrory. The album has seen over 2.9 million streams worldwide since March.

The LP has been receiving widespread positive reaction with both MOJO and Uncut including it in their Albums of 2024 this month. Earlier this year The Irish Times listed the album in their “Top Ten Irish Albums Of 2024 So Far”.

In March this year Oisin performed live in session from Maida Vale studios in London on the Cerys Matthews Show on BBC 6 Music. What followed were sold-out shows in Paris, London, Dublin, Cork and Belfast.

Leech also received positive reviews for his recent UK and Irish gigs with Ron Sexsmith joining him on Leech’s headline Union Chapel gig which ended with a standing ovation.

Of his recent Whelans gig No More Workhorse described the gig as “superb” and the album being “one of the understated gems of the year.” While KLOF stated the Whelans gig was “impeccable…” describing Oisin as “a songwriter of the highest order.”

This week Oisin is in Dingle to perform as part of Other Voices then on Sunday December 1st he plays his first hometown show at The Solstice Arts Theatre in Navan Co. Meath. A small number of seats remain for the concert this Sunday December 1st. Book HERE (https://solsticeartscentre.ticketsolve.com/ticketbooth/shows/873648398)

At the Solstice Arts gig this Sunday duo Perlee will open the show, Roisin McGrory will play fiddle, Graham Heaney will play bass while Sinead Smyth who painted the album cover will also make a vey special appearance.

Later in December Oisin travels to play Barcelona and returns to gig the Christmas YULE gig at Dalymount Stadium in support of the Dublin Simon Community arranged by Siobhan Kane of Young Hearts Run Free.

Cold Sea is available on vinyl and cd at Tower Records Dublin, Freebird Records Dublin, Spindizzy Records Dublin, Rollercoaster Records Kilkenny, ODE in Navan and other selected stores. It is also available on Bandcamp. More info at www.oisinleech.com

 

Eimear Quinn’s Winter Dream: A New Collection of Songs for the Season

As one of the leading Irish voices of her generation, Eimear Quinn’s ethereal voice has become synonymous with the season for many, since her platinum-selling album ‘O Holy Night’ in 2007.

Every winter, Eimear tours across Ireland, and she knew the time had come for new collection of winter-themed music:

Eimear says “There’s something so special about touring in December that has become a significant part of my life. The desire for connection is palpable, as is the need to escape from the frantic pace of life. The search for stillness and positivity can be facilitated through the music for a couple of hours. 

There’s also an increasing hunger for music that is secular but still spiritual, in addition to the sacred carols. So with this album I aim to transition musically from autumn to winter, the Solstice, Christmas, and into the new year.

The title song is about not wanting to feel beaten down by the intensity of fear and division so prevalent in our times, but rather to rebel against it by allowing ourselves to hope and dream of a deeper human connection with each other. 

The album is essentially a collection of songs about exactly that; connectedness and hope”

Songs on this new release include original tracks such as ‘Song of Winter Dreaming’, ‘Silent Snow’ and ‘Winter Solstice’(co-written with long-time collaborator, Brendan Graham), as well as Irish carols arranged by Eimear such as ‘The Wexford Carol’, ‘Suantraí ar Slanaitheora’, ‘Oíche í mBeithil Fadó’ and the beautiful Catalan folk carol ‘El Cant Dels Ocells’ (song of the birds).

Eimear is joined by the Mamisa String Quartet, and renowned folk guitarist Robbie Overson (Scullion) a partnership that dates back to her first EP in 1996.

The album will also showcase the talents of pianist Feargal Murray and Ukrainian Bandura (folk harp) player Tetiana Mazur. Eimear and Tetiana collaborate on the contemporary Irish-language carol ’Oíche í mBeithil Fadó’, a song about seeking shelter on the darkest night, recalling the Irish tradition of placing candle in the window on Christmas Eve night.

Eimear Quinn is celebrated as Ireland’s most recent Eurovision Song Contest winner (1996) with ‘The Voice’ by Brendan Graham. Her distinctive fusion of folk, sacred, and classical music has garnered her numerous honours, including a spot in the Classic FM Hall of Fame for her composition ‘In Paradisum’ for four consecutive years.

The album will come to life during a nation-wide tour of churches and cathedrals throughout Ireland in November and December.

Tour dates www.eimearquinn.com

IG: @eimearvox FB @eimearquinnvox

Nov 19 – DUBLIN- Draiocht, Blanchardstown (launch concert)
Dec 1- WEST CORK, St Multose Church, Kinsale
Dec 5- CARLOW, St Mary’s Church
Dec 7- DUBLIN – Pepper Canister Church
Dec 12 – GALWAY, St John’s Church, Ballinasloe
Dec 13 – CLARE – St Columba’s Church, Ennis
Dec 15 – EAST CORK – Sea Church, Ballycotton
Dec 16 – MEATH – Solstice Arts, Navan
Dec 20 – MONAGHAN, St Finbarr’s Church, Carrickmacross
Dec 21 – St Brigid’s Cathedral, Kildare.

Songs of Winter Dreaming is available to purchase at https://www.eimearquinn.com/music/songs-of-winter-dreaming

 

 

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