CMAT and Amble Dominate RTÉ Choice Music Prize: A Sign of Shifting Tides in Irish Music?
CMAT’s double win at the 2025 RTÉ Choice Music Prize – taking home both Album of the Year for EURO-COUNTRY and Irish Artist of the Year – signals a potential turning point for the Irish music scene. The awards, announced by Barry Devlin of Horslips at Vicar Street, Dublin, highlight a growing appetite for genre-bending artists and a strong connection with the Irish public.
The Rise of Genre Fluidity
CMAT’s success with EURO-COUNTRY, a record that defies easy categorization, demonstrates a shift away from traditional genre boundaries. The album’s blend of influences resonated with both the judging panel – comprised of Irish music media professionals – and a wider audience. This mirrors a global trend where artists are increasingly experimenting with hybrid sounds, attracting listeners seeking something fresh and unique.
Similarly, the Album of the Year nominations showcased a diverse range of artists, including Bricknasty, Joshua Burnside, Just Mustard and SPRINTS, each bringing a distinct sonic identity to the table. This suggests a vibrant and evolving musical landscape in Ireland.
Public Engagement and the Power of Online Voting
Amble’s victory in the Irish Song of the Year category for “Schoolyard Days” underscores the growing importance of public engagement in music awards. The song was chosen through a public vote via RTÉ 2FM and the Choice Music Prize websites. This direct connection between artists and fans is becoming increasingly crucial in the digital age.
The success of Amble likewise extends to being named Breakthrough Irish Artist of the Year, further solidifying their position as a rising force in the Irish music scene. Their dual wins demonstrate the power of combining critical acclaim with popular support.
Celebrating Irish Music History
The RTÉ Choice Music Prize also took time to honor the past, with Horslips’ 1973 album, The Táin, receiving the Classic Irish Album Award. The recognition, presented to Barry Devlin, Eamon Carr, and Jim Lockhart, highlights the enduring legacy of pioneering Irish artists and their influence on contemporary musicians.
The Role of RTÉ and Live Performance
The awards ceremony, hosted by Tracy Clifford of RTÉ 2FM and broadcast live on the station with Beta Da Silva, demonstrates RTÉ’s continued commitment to supporting and promoting Irish music. The inclusion of live performances from six nominated artists provided a platform for exposure and engagement.
Looking Ahead: Trends to Watch
The 2025 RTÉ Choice Music Prize winners and nominees point to several key trends that are likely to shape the future of Irish music:
- Increased Genre Blurring: Expect more artists to experiment with hybrid sounds and defy traditional categorization.
- Direct Fan Engagement: Artists will increasingly leverage online platforms and direct-to-fan strategies to build communities and foster loyalty.
- Emphasis on Authenticity: Listeners are seeking artists who are genuine and relatable, with a unique voice and perspective.
- Continued Support from National Broadcasters: RTÉ’s role in promoting Irish music will remain vital, providing a platform for emerging talent.
FAQ
Q: Who won Album of the Year at the 2025 RTÉ Choice Music Prize?
A: CMAT won Album of the Year for EURO-COUNTRY.
Q: Who won Irish Song of the Year?
A: Amble won Irish Song of the Year for “Schoolyard Days.”
Q: Who announced the Album of the Year winner?
A: Barry Devlin from Horslips announced the winner.
Q: What is the Classic Irish Album Award?
A: The Classic Irish Album Award recognizes the enduring legacy of influential Irish albums. Horslips’ The Táin won in 2025.
Did you grasp? CMAT recently released a ‘Dunboyne Diana’ collection with O’Neill’s.
Pro Tip: Explore the nominated albums from the 2025 RTÉ Choice Music Prize to discover modern Irish artists and sounds.
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