Music from the Heart

Martin McDonnell - Hold Me Tight (single)

From time to time you come across a rising talent so good who simply stops you in your tracks. That is the case of Martin McDonnell. The 17 year old Dubliner can be frequently seen busking on Grafton street but has also played the famous Ruby Sessions (previous performers include Glen Hansard, Hozier, Conor O'Brien (Villagers). His debut single "Hold Me Tight" was released on Beadfire on May 31st.

The song is probably going to surprise some of the listeners. Not only it isn't as sweet and romantic as the title might suggest, it has more upbeat, quite atmospheric melody but more importantly - the maturity of the lyrics goes hand in hand with the vocal delivery where Martin McDonnell presents himself as a seasoned singer. You wouldn't believe this is his first release. You'd think busking has helped him to gain such experience but it takes a lot to stand on the street and sing. Courage, determination and charisma. Martin McDonnell has it all.

For the production of his debut single ‘Hold Me Tight’ Martin worked closely with veteran producer David Virgin – who has worked, on stage or in studio with the likes of Nick Cave, INXS, Mary Black, Leslie Dowdall (In Tua Nua), Cat Power & Jonathan Richman to name a few – and his sons Rohan Healy and Al Quiff at Beardfire Studio, Dublin. He joined the likes of RUNAH. Patricia Lalor or KTG who also belong among those releasing their music through Beardfire.

"Hold Me Tight" has been named The Track of the day on Hotpress on the day it was released.

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