Stephen Brennan has been announced as one of Ireland's Classic Hits Radio's four finalists for Irish Music Month 2026, earning a place in the nationwide search for Ireland's next 'Local Hero'.
Originally from County Fermanagh, Brennan spent years performing blues, rock and folk music across Ireland in various bands before embarking on a life-changing adventure in 2024. Alongside his wife, he left Dublin and set off on a motorcycle journey around the world, travelling through mountains, deserts, bustling cities and remote landscapes.
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Drawing inspiration from folk traditions and blues storytelling, Brennan's songs explore some of life's most universal experiences. His music focuses on themes of loss, resilience and human connection, his songs coursing with empathy.
Influences such as Townes Van Zandt, C.W. Stoneking, Robert Johnson and Rory Gallagher can be heard throughout his work, while his songwriting remains distinctly his own.
His debut EP, The Fisherman and Other Stories, is due for release in 2026. The collection reflects on life's struggles and fleeting moments, offering thoughtful, honest storytelling rooted in folk tradition while retaining a contemporary perspective.
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Each station finalist receives €875, while one act will be selected as Ireland's Classic Hits Radio's overall Local Hero and progress to the next stage of the competition. From there, six acts from around the country will be chosen to perform at the Irish Music Month Grand Finale at The Academy, Dublin, where each will receive a further €1,400 prize.
Irish Music Month. Hotpress
The overall winner will collect a cash prize and a €5,000 support package, including studio recording time, mastering, mentoring, PR support and nationwide radio play. Artists who do not reach the final six remain eligible for the public-voted Wildcard Award, worth an additional €2,500 bursary.
