Almost a year after his phenomenal win at the live finale of A New Local Hero, Brad Heidi has announced a new single, 'Don't Let Go' – recorded as part of the prestigious talent search's top prize. The track is set to be released this Friday, April 5, via Rubyworks.

An initiative of Hot Press and the Independent Broadcasters of Ireland, A New Local Hero is a key element in Irish Music Month, a major promotion of Irish music and Irish musicians launched by Hot Press and the 25 participating IBI radio stations. Brad was Galway Bay FM’s worthy selection, earning him a spot in the final showcase event at The Academy in Dublin.

As the overall winner, the Galway singer-songwriter got the chance to record a single at the iconic Camden Recording Studios in Dublin, working with the acclaimed producer and arranger Cian Boylan (Bono, The Villagers) and mixer Ruadhri Cushnan (Ed Sheeran and Mumford & Sons). The resulting track, 'Don't Let Go', is being released through the famed Irish independent record label Rubyworks – whose roster includes the likes of Hozier and LYRA.

“‘Don't Let Go' isn't just a song; it's a reflection of a million emotions intertwined with my personal journey through the agonies and the ecstasies of the music industry," says Brad Heidi. “For me, it's melody echoes the emotional struggle of battling through the multiple challenges involved in being an artist – and, perhaps more significantly, on occasion battling with my inner self to pursue my musical dreams to the fullest."

Brad Heidi at Electric Picnic 2023. Copyright Liam Murphy.

The song encapsulates Brad's relentless pursuit of his passion, drawing inspiration from countless nights spent honing his craft.

"After a year of playing every nook and cranny of London, I packed a mattress into the back of my car and embarked on a journey across Exeter, Devon, Bristol, and Cornwall," Brad shares. "For four months, I roamed the South West of England, spreading the word of my music, and – almost inevitably – questioning every decision in the face of doubt, wondering if it would all be worth it.

"I've always sought to encapsulate the essence of my musical journey metaphorically within my songs," he adds. "And sometimes, amidst all the chaos, the answer is as simple as 'Don't Let Go'."

The beginning of ‘Don't Let Go’ traces back to a moment of raw vulnerability in Galway in early 2023:

"As I watched the water of Galway Bay, attempting to craft something I thought would be 'successful', the pen met the paper, and my thoughts, my honest feelings, spilled out alongside the melody."

Brad Heidi's rise to prominence has been nothing short of extraordinary. From his beginnings as a busker in Galway to sharing stages with icons like Billy Joel, James Blunt, Lisa Hannigan, and Gavin James, Brad's growing musical prowess has earned him recognition and admirers worldwide.

"Brad Heidi is a brilliant singer, songwriter and performer, who has shown a remarkable single-mindedness and dedication, in his drive to establish himself as an artist," President Michael D. Higgins has said of the rising star. "The title of A New Local Hero 2023, which has been conferred on Brad Heidi, will I am sure open the way for him to move on with confidence to the next level, in what promises to be a wonderfully creative, fulfilling and productive, long-term career.”

Brad Heidi at Irish Music Month's 'A New Local Hero' event at The Academy on April 25th, 2023. Copyright Abigail Ring/ hotpress.com

Hot Press editor Niall Stokes has also praised Brad's "fantastic combination of an outstanding voice, real authenticity, radio friendly songs, a powerful presence as a live performer – and the potential to keep on growing and developing as an artist."

"And so – when the chips were down – he was an unanimous choice as the winner of A New Local Hero," he continues. "I think Irish audiences are going to love ‘Don’t Let Go’. Our partners in the IBI (Independent Broadcasters of Ireland) have a lot to be proud of in supporting such an outstanding young Irish artist. Long may he run."

As anticipation mounts for the release of ‘Don't Let Go’, fans can expect big things from Brad Heidi in the coming year. With his unwavering passion and irresistible talent, the sky's the limit for this Galway-based sensation.

'Don't Let Go' is out this Friday, April 5. Pre-save the track here.