As 2023 comes to a close, it has been a hugely successful year for Northern Ireland musicians. Both new and established artists have announced sold-out shows throughout the year, and 2024 is expected to be no different.
Belfast Live has picked seven up-and-coming Northern Ireland artists you may not have heard of yet, but who you can look forward to supporting in the new year.
weston ronnie
The charismatic Armagh-born singer/songwriter is a solid choice for a potential indie star, combining lyrics about his local upbringing with melodic riffs and honest storytelling.
Ronnie’s new single “On Tonight” embodies everything you can expect from his music. Anthem-like chorus and passionate performance. After playing in front of an enthusiastic crowd at the Limelight, Ronnie will be looking forward to what 2024 has in store for him.
Please listen if you are a fan of…Snow Patrol, Sam Fender,
moon boots
The Belfast-based indie funk band’s live performances are full of energy and charisma, and these traits translate well to the studio versions of their songs. Even though he has only released two singles, there is still talk of what he will release next with the band. It’s proof of how good their few singles are.
‘To U’ won Best New Single at the NI Music Prize and rightly so, with a smooth saxophone and trumpet lead that will have you dancing. With new music teased as coming soon, you might want to jump on the train while you can.
Please listen if you are a fan of… 1975, King Krule,
martha greer
The Bangor-born singer/songwriter may only have a few EPs and singles under his belt, but his talent is already obvious to anyone who’s heard him.
Her biggest single, ‘Can We Listen To Phoebe Bridgers’, has already racked up thousands of streams on Spotify. The track is packed with atmospheric instrumentation and songwriting potential, showing a bright future for her as a songwriter.
Please listen if you are a fan of…Phoebe Bridgers, Big Thief, Mitsuki
Florentina
The Bangor-born indie quartet have electric, guitar-heavy songs that will stick in your head once you hear them. Take their first single “Sandcastles”. It features an intense lead guitar and a tight drum roll to match.
After playing at a packed Limelight in December and supporting the likes of Coeur d’Alene and The Lathams, the Bangor Boys have gained a huge amount of experience and are ready to explode in 2024.
Listen if you are a fan of… Two Door Cinema Club, Sam Fender, Catfish & The Bottlemen
dark tropics
Pop-noir duo Rio McGuinness and Gerald Sands express their individuality and musical prowess in newly released songs such as “Carnival” and “Moroccan Sun,” offering a new take on their genre. is added. McGuinness’ vocal performances are often mesmerizing, elegantly matching the sun-kissed melodies and further elevating her presence.
After supporting Belle & Sebastian on their Irish tour, fans may be hoping for more solo shows to follow in 2024.
Listen if you are a fan of… John Cooper Clark, Lana Del Rey, Lorde
Dare Matrona
Probably the greatest artist on the list, Dear Matrona started busking on the streets of Belfast city centre. When her YouTube video of her performance of Fleetwood Mac’s “Oh Well” went viral, the band shot into the spotlight and hasn’t looked back since.
Their newly released single “Get My Mind Off” includes everything fans have learned to associate with this duo. Fuzzy bass line and guitar-led chorus. Fans may have a lot to look forward to as the album is teased for release in 2024.
Listen if you are a fan of… Led Zeppelin, Fleetwood Mac, Rory Gallagher
Vandal
Vandal are a four-piece rock band from North Belfast who excelled at their headlining gig at Oh Yeah! The centers will be looking forward to making an impression in 2024.
Modern songwriting that combines heavy guitar riffs,
Listen if you are a fan of… Foo Fighters, Beatles, Oasis
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