CMAT’s ‘Euro-Country’ Crowned RTÉ Choice Music Prize Album of the Year
CMAT has secured the prestigious RTÉ Choice Music Prize Album of the Year 2025 for her critically acclaimed album, EURO-COUNTRY. The announcement took place on Thursday night at a ceremony held in Vicar Street, Dublin, with Barry Devlin of Horslips presenting the award.
A Second Win for the ‘Dunboyne Diana’
This marks the second time CMAT, whose real name is Ciara Mary-Alice Thompson, has received this honor, having previously won in 2022 for her debut album, If My Wife New I’d Be Dead. She also took home the Irish Artist of the Year award at the same event, solidifying her position as a leading figure in the Irish music scene.
Amble’s Double Triumph
The night wasn’t solely CMAT’s to celebrate. Rising stars Amble enjoyed a successful evening, winning both Irish Song of the Year for “Schoolyard Days” – chosen by public vote – and Breakthrough Irish Artist of the Year. The song’s victory highlights the growing power of fan engagement in music awards.
Honoring Irish Music Legacy
The ceremony also paid tribute to Irish music history, with Horslips receiving the Classic Irish Album award for their 1973 LP, The Táin. This recognition underscores the importance of preserving and celebrating Ireland’s rich musical heritage.
The Shortlist and the Judges
The Album of the Year award was selected from a shortlist of ten albums by a panel of eleven Irish music media professionals and industry experts. The other nominated albums included works by Amble, Bricknasty, Joshua Burnside, Dove Ellis, Junior Brother, Just Mustard, pôt-pot, Maria Somerville, and SPRINTS.
Financial Recognition and Industry Support
CMAT received a cheque for €10,000, provided by the Irish Music Rights Organisation (IMRO) and the Irish Recorded Music Association (IRMA), alongside a specially commissioned award. This financial support is crucial for artists to continue creating and innovating.
A Night of Performances and Broadcast
The event, hosted by RTÉ 2FM’s Tracy Clifford, featured live performances from several of the nominated artists and was broadcast live on RTÉ 2FM, extending the reach of the awards to a wider audience.
The Evolving Landscape of Irish Music Awards
The RTÉ Choice Music Prize, established in 2005, has become a cornerstone of the Irish music industry. Recent winners demonstrate a trend towards recognizing diverse genres and emerging talent. Fontaines D.C. Won in 2024 for Romance, while Lankum was honored in 2023 for False Lankum.
FAQ
Q: What is the RTÉ Choice Music Prize?
A: It’s an annual award recognizing the best in Irish recorded music.
Q: How much prize money did CMAT receive?
A: CMAT received €10,000.
Q: Who won Irish Song of the Year?
A: Amble won Irish Song of the Year for “Schoolyard Days”.
Q: What is the significance of the Classic Irish Album award?
A: It honors influential albums from Ireland’s musical past.
Q: How are the winners chosen?
A: The Album of the Year is chosen by a panel of music professionals, while the Irish Song of the Year is decided by public vote.
Did you grasp? CMAT thanked former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern in her acceptance speech, referencing him in the title track of EURO-COUNTRY.
Explore more about the vibrant Irish music scene on RTÉ’s music page.
What are your thoughts on CMAT’s win? Share your opinions in the comments below!
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