Local audiences will get their chance to celebrate with NI Music Prize winners Polar Bolero and California Irish at this weekend's Atlantic Sessions.
The NI Music Prize awards night in Belfast's Ulster Hall is one of the big nights in local music, recognising and rewarding the breadth of talent that exists in the province.
It was no different on Wednesday when the great and good of the music industry gathered, not only to present a range of awards, but to pay homage to one of the finest artists ever to emerge from the north - the legendary Van Morrison.
Among the winners were Polar Bolero who
received the Gerry Anderson Award, presented by his son David, IMRO, and Blue Lights cocreator and executive producer Louise Gallagher.
They, of course, kick off this weekend's Atlantic Sessions as the headline act at the opening night showcase at The Playhouse in Portrush, supported by Many a Son.
Fellow award winners, California Irish, who walked away with the Single of the Year award (supported by Help Musicians) play The Quays Autrium in Portrush on Sunday afternoon on the closing day of the north coast music festival.
The NI Music Prize lit up the Ulster Hall in midweek with exceptional performances, emotional tributes, and well-deserved awards. With artists, industry leaders, and music lovers filling the beautifully lit venue, the night stood as a powerful celebration of the creativity and spirit that continue to shape Northern Ireland’s musical landscape.
RÓIS delivered a standout performance and took home two major honours: Live Act of the Year (sponsored by MCD) and Album of the Year (supported by PPL). Esmerelda Road were warmly welcomed back to the stage after winning last year’s BBC Radio Ulster ATL Award.
The live programme continued with brilliant sets from George Houston, Junk Drawer, Becky McNeice, and California Irish. Each artist brought a distinct voice, highlighting the rich range of genres and stories thriving across the north today.
Dani Larkin picked up the PRS Creator of the Year Award, while Huartan earned BBC Introducing NI Artist of the Year.
One of the night’s most moving moments came with a heartfelt tribute by Oh Yeah Music Centre chair Harry Martin to Van Morrison, followed by a stirring musical homage from Duke Special, Nathan O’Regan, Jackie Rainey and Dana Masters.
Van Morrison himself sent a video message of thanks: “Thanks to the NI Music Prize and all the musicians. Have a great night everybody.”
Another major highlight was the presentation of the Outstanding Contribution to Music Award to Alan Simms of Shine - a driving force in Northern Ireland’s live music culture for decades and now celebrating 30 years of Shine.
Longtime friend and promoter Rich McGinnis of Parklife Festival made the presentation, with additional messages of support from BICEP, Gary Lightbody of Snow Patrol and DJ/producer Dave Clarke.
"This year’s NI Music Prize was more than an awards ceremony - it was a joyful affirmation of the talent, dedication, and passion that define Northern Ireland’s music scene," said a spokesperson.
"A night of pride, celebration, and performances, it once again proved why NI music continues to resonate far beyond our shores."
