Galway’s Johnluke next powerful Single of 2026 ‘Denial’

Rising Irish artist Johnluke returns with his newest single ‘Denial‘ which blends western folk influences with his signature pop sound. The song tells the story of someone who’s constantly worn down by life’s struggles who refuses to admit he’s suffering, even when the signs are painfully clear. It captures the quiet battle between pride and vulnerability, the need to appear unbreakable as the cracks begin to show. Exhausted from carrying so much, he convinces himself he can handle everything alone, even as the weight grows heavier each day.
Speaking about the single, Johnluke says:
“I wrote ‘Denial’ about that constant feeling of trying to stay strong when you’re slowly and quietly drowning in your own thoughts.”
“Johnluke has a remarkable voice and crafts lyrics that reach the soul, paired with melodies that captivate from the very first note. An emerging artist that will be turning heads and hearts with every performance.” –Miriam O’Callaghan, RTÉ Radio 1
For Fans Of: Mumford & Sons, Noah Kahan, Dermot Kennedy, Paulo Nutini, Ed Sheeran
About Johnluke:
Since the release of his debut single ‘Already Been Told’ in March 2024, Johnluke has quickly established himself as one of Ireland’s most exciting emerging talents. The folk-pop ballad marked the beginning of a steady rise, followed by a chain of successful releases including viral TikTok favourite ‘City Lovin’, ‘Royalty’, ‘Letters’, ‘Change Me’, ‘Green Eyes’, ‘Have Tonight’, ‘Pretty’, and his recent single ‘Angry In The Moment’.
Johnluke’s musical signature blends pop, folk and country, driven by a natural gift for storytelling. His heartfelt lyrics and captivating melodies have created a soulful sound that resonates with listeners of all ages — leaving fans eagerly anticipating his debut EP.
In the studio, Johnluke has collaborated with respected writers and producers including Richie McCourt (Ryan Mack, Aimee, Roisin O’, Jazzy), Anna Krantz (Ed Sheeran, Lyra, Cliff Richard) and John Nathaniel (One Republic, Shawn Mendes, Alex Sampson), with major releases already in the pipeline for 2026.
His growing reputation has been reinforced by industry recognition. Johnluke was named a finalist for Irish Music Month 2024 by Galway Bay FM and was selected as one of Today FM’s Top 5 Emerging Irish Artists in their “Ireland’s Next Big Busker 2025” campaign. Supported by Dave Moore as his chosen act, he finished as runner-up while helping raise vital funds for Focus Ireland. He has also received national airplay support from Q Radio, GalwayBayFM, TodayFM, SPIN, iRadio and RTÉ Radio 1 performing live in Studio 8, and made his television debut on Virgin Media One’s “The Six O’Clock Show” as part of their Six Sessions feature.
Johnluke has performed at iconic venues and festivals across Ireland. He has been a regular at Quays Bar (Galway), Mike the Pies (Listowel), and CASK. (Limerick) He made his festival debut at RiverFest 2024 in Shannonbridge, supporting LYRA. From May 2025, he played as support for three sold-out shows at Whelan’s Dublin, one with Mark O’Donnell, Simple Things and Jamie McIntyre.
Plus, he had the honor of opening up for Paddy Casey for his show in Loughrea. He has also appeared at The Sound House in Dublin as part of their Irish artists showcase for the best rising acts of 2025. The biggest milestone was Johnluke kicking off his headline shows with his three-piece band for his comical romance tour which seen him play to a sold-out audience in Monroe’s Galway and returning to Dublin playing upstairs at Whelan’s. The next leg of the tour will continue in the autumn 2026 with dates to be announced.
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