With the country entering lockdown restrictions like never before, there's no better time to hunker down at home with live performances from your favourite Irish artists. Tonight, March 28, we're delighted to announce rapidly rising star Martin McDonnell for the Hot Press Lockdown Sessions – brought to you by the rebel-hearted legends from Grace O'Malley Whiskey.

Initially honing his craft while busking on the streets of Dublin, the last 12 months have seen Martin building up an impressive international following on the back of a string of acclaimed single releases, including his latest track, 'Leaves Me Wanting More'.

Earlier this year, the young singer-songwriter proved his star quality with a stellar debut headliner at a packed out Whelan's – upgraded from Upstairs to the main venue due to phenomenal demand. Fans of the legendary Ruby Sessions have also been treated to his stunning vocals on more than one occasion.

With plenty of music in the pipeline, Martin McDonnell is poised for major mainstream success in the coming months – so don't miss tonight's intimate performance!

While Somebody's Child were originally scheduled to follow Martin's set tonight, the members of the band will no longer be able to meet up and do so  – in accordance with the new 2km travel restrictions announced by Taoiseach Leo Varadkar last night. While the joy of live music is important, taking care of your health and the health of others around you is even more so – so we applaud Somebody's Child for setting an example for the rest of the country to follow.

Throughout the Hot Press Lockdown Sessions, brought to you by Grace O'Malley Whiskey, our star-studded line-up will be taking over the Hot Press Instagram account (@hotpressmagazine), and live-streaming performances from their homes around the world directly to your phone. Keep an eye out for upcoming performances from Ryan O'Shaughnessy, RuthAnne, Tiz McNamara, First Day Lions and more!

We encourage anyone who enjoys Martin McDonnell's performance tonight to buy his music – supporting him through this extremely difficult time for musicians.

The Hot Press Lockdown Sessions brought to you by Grace O'Malley Whiskey...

Watch Martin McDonnell (19:30 GMT) tonight, March 28 – live from the Hot Press Instagram.

See the full line-up for the Hot Press Lockdown Sessions, brought to you by Grace O'Malley Whiskey, here.