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Music

What's happening in music

At the very soul of Dublin is the rhythm and sounds of music. Every genre is represented in the city, from traditional Irish music to blues and reggae to rock and jazz. The city is also home to some of the most acclaimed musicians and bands in the world, including Grammy-winning U2, Bob Geldof, Sinead O’Connor, Christy Moore, and The Script. In addition to talent that continues to emerge from Dublin’s neighbourhoods, no other city in Ireland attracts more live acts from around the world than Dublin. The city also remains the base of several musicians, including rock band The Frames, alternative rockers Delorentos, and singer-songwriter Cathy Davey.

Throughout the city, venues of all sizes host independent artists, international stars and local favourites.

The Academy has seen performances by The Killers, Gomez, Lily Allen, Calvin Harris, Owl City and many other established and up-and-coming musicians. The Olympia Theatre is another favourite stage for home-grown and visiting musicians and bands. Built in 1879, the concert hall has welcomed dozens of artists, including Oasis, INXS, David Bowie, Groove Armada, Bryan Adams, Adele, Smashing Pumpkins, Adele, Keane, and Arcade Fire. Other popular venues include the intimate Vicar Street concert hall, the Tivoli Theatre, and The O2.

Music is also at the centre of many of Dublin’s most popular events, including St. Patrick’s Day. Arthur’s Day also brings high-profile musicians to the city each year. First organised in 2009 to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Guinness brewing company, the event has attracted artists such as Tinie Tempah, Fatboy Slim, Ellie Goulding, Stereophonics, Ed Sheeran, Snow Patrol, Plan B, and Dublin’s own The Script. Held in nearby County Laois, the Electric Picnic is a boutique music and arts festival that featured The Cure, The Killers, Elbow, Sigur Ros, The XX, Orbital and others in 2012. After a year-long hiatus, Oxegen will return to Dublin in July 2013. Often compared to Glastonbury, the event included headliners the Foo Fighters, Arctic Moneys, Deadmau5, The Strokes, Coldplay and Beyonce, as well as performances from dozens of other artists in 2011.