DUG sign to Claddagh Records: "We're stoked"

Music
03 Apr 25

DUG at the Cobblestone / copyright Patrik Meier/hotpress.com

"It’s a big move for us, and we’re stoked to be working with a label that is not only home to many amazing artists but also has such historical importance in Irish music," the duo have commented.

Currently in the midst of their acclaimed Irish tour, DUG have announced that they have signed to legendary Irish label Claddagh Records.

"It’s a big move for us, and we’re stoked to be working with a label that is not only home to many amazing artists but also has such historical importance in Irish music," the Dublin-based duo comment. "We’re looking forward to what’s next and can’t wait to get our music out there with the support of a team that gets what we’re about. Onwards!”

Tipped as one of Hot Press's 'Hot For 2025' acts, DUG – made up of California native Jonny Pickett and Scottish-born Conor (Lorkin) O’Reilly – have already built up a major following on the Irish live circuit. The pair released their debut single, 'Jubilee', in February 2024, followed by 'Big Sundown', and, most recently, 'Wheel Of Fortune'.

Claddagh Records was originally founded in 1959 by Garech Browne and Ivor Browne, with a special emphasis on traditional Irish music and poetry. In 2020, Claddagh signed a global licensing agreement with Universal Music, and announced ØXN as its first signing in 18 years. Claddagh has since released albums by Lemoncello, Niamh Bury, and Christy Moore.

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The remaining dates on DUG's Irish tour include Bank Lane, Waterford (April 11); Song Room at The Sky & The Ground, Wexford (April 13); De Barra's, Clonakilty (April 24); and the Ambassador Theatre, Dublin (April 25).

Watch DUG's performance of 'Wheel Of Fortune' for GemsOnVHS below: