This annual event shines a spotlight on the talent Northern Irish artists have to offer, with awards across multiple categories including the flagship Album of the Year award.
The night features performances from RÓIS, Junk Drawer, Esmeralda Road, Becky McNeice, George Houston, California Irish and a tribute to Van Morrison.
Fermanagh composer and wake house grief-exploring artist RÓIS won Album of the Year award for last year’s superlative Mo Léan that placed highly on my Irish albums of the year in 2024.
RÓIS also won Live Act of the Year on the night.
California Irish who performed, also won Single of the Year.
Dani Larkin picked up the PRS Creator of the Year Award, while Huartan earned BBC Introducing NI Artist of the Year.
Derry band Polar Bolero received the Gerry Anderson Award, presented by his son David, IMRO, and Blue Lights co-creator and executive producer Louise Gallagher.
A heartfelt tribute by Oh Yeah Music Centre chair Harry Martin to Van Morrison, followed by a stirring musical homage from Duke Special, Nathan O’Regan, Jackie Rainey, and Dana Masters. Van Morrison himself sent a video message of thanks.
THE Outstanding Contribution to Music Award went to Alan Simms of Shine – with the promoters marking 30 years in the live game. Promoter Rich McGinnis of Parklife Festival made the presentation, with additional messages of support from BICEP, Gary Lightbody of Snow Patrol, and DJ/producer Dave Clarke.
Niall Byrne is the founder of the most-influential Irish music site Nialler9, where he has been writing about music since 2005. He is the co-host of the Nialler9 Podcast and has written for the Irish Times, Irish Independent, Sunday Times, Totally Dublin, Cara Magazine, Red Bull and more. Niall is a DJ, co-founder of Lumo Club, event curator, Indie Sleaze club promoter, and producer of gigs and monthly listening parties & events in Dublin.
