Initially honing his craft busking on the streets of Dublin, Martin McDonnell has built up an impressive international following in recent months with a string of acclaimed singles – which he performed for fans during a stellar set on the Hot Press Lockdown Sessions' Y&E Series last night.

He kicked off the set with an original track, 'Heart To Heart' – penned during the first lockdown – before delving into a stunning mash-up of Queen hits. Among the highlights of the set was a powerful performance of his new single 'Day By Day' – released in aid of the Irish Cancer Society.

Revisit his performance on the Y&E Series, supported by the Department of Media, Tourism, Arts, Culture, Sport and the Gaeltacht, below:

 

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Up next on the Y&E Series:

Thursday, November 5: OWEN RUA
Tralee singer-songwriter Owen Rua has established himself as one of the country's most hotly tipped emerging singer-songwriters, with passionate acoustic performances across Ireland. He released his debut single, 'Do You Ever Think Of Me?' earlier this year.

Friday, November 6: PADRAIG CAHILL
Having built up his ever-growing following as a busker, Padraig Cahill continues to establish himself as a compelling young artist.

Saturday, November 7: JUNIOR BROTHER
Kerry singer-songwriter Junior Brother has enjoyed a landmark few years – touring with The Proclaimers, Lankum, Glen Hansard and The Murder Capital. His debut album, Pull The Right Rope, released last year, was nominated for the Choice Music Prize Album of the Year.

Sunday, November 8: DYLAN HARCOURT
Rising to prominence as a busker on the streets of Dublin, Dylan Harcourt draws influence from the likes of Hozier, Glen Hansard and Damien Rice. With lauded performances at Electric Picnic and Ferrara Buskers Festival under his belt, he released his Icarus EP in 2018.

Monday, November 9: AMY MONTGOMERY
Poised for international stardom, Belfast-based artist Amy Montgomery has emerged as one of the country's most thrilling new talents. She released her latest single, 'Anywhere', last month.

Tuesday, November 10: AOIFE SCOTT
Born into the legendary Black Family, award-winning artist Aoife Scott is steadily rising to the top of the traditional and folk music scene in Ireland. Her new album Homebird was released earlier this year.

Each performance goes live on the Hot Press Instagram (@hotpressmagazine) at 7.30pm every night!