New book celebrates life of Belfast music legend Bap Kennedy

A new biography, All the Dreams of a Boy, celebrates the life of late Belfast music artist, Bap Kennedy.

The book was written by the singer-songwriter’s wife, Brenda, who officially launched it at a packed-out event at the Oh Yeah Centre, as part of the city’s 'Sound of Belfast' festival.

The author was joined on the night by BBC Radio Ulster's Ralph McLean, who hosted an insightful - and at times emotional - Q&A about Bap's life. The book is published exactly 10 years after Bap Kennedy’s tragic passing in November 2016, following a cancer diagnosis.

Martin ‘Bap’ Kennedy grew up during the Troubles and later became frontman and main songwriter with Energy Orchard, recording five albums and touring internationally, before developing a distinctive solo career. His solo discography spans eight solo albums. His song ‘Moonlight Kiss’ featured in the film Serendipity, starring John Cusack and Kate Beckinsale.

Steve Earle - who wrote the Foreword to All the Dreams of a Boy - produced Bap’s first solo album, Domestic Blues. The artist also co-wrote with Van Morrison, while Mark Knopfler produced and performed on his album The Sailor’s Revenge.

Despite his talents, Bap struggled with the business and social demands surrounding his work. Battles with alcohol, recovery and a late diagnosis of Asperger Syndrome all affected him as his career developed.

As well as being his wife, Brenda Kennedy played with Bap as part of his touring band. Their life together combined family, songwriting, recording and touring. Bap described their years together as the best decade of his life, and had previously said he’d planned to write a book about his life and music. In the end, when illness prevented him from completing it, he entrusted the task to Brenda.

Brenda continues championing Bap’s music and in August 2026 released Above All, Love, featuring ten previously unreleased original Bap songs.

Find out more here.