Live Report: Dijon delivers a soulful Irish debut with 3Olympia set

In this secular age, youth gather in unlikely places of worship, in search of modern angelic mouthpieces like Dijon. At last night's sold out Dublin gig, the American rapper/producer commanded every ounce of attention, with his audience desperate for the musical genius they'd been so eagerly awaiting.

2025 was a busy year for Dijon, co-writing and producing songs on Justin Bieber's latest albums Swag and Swag II, releasing his own sophomore album Baby in August, and making his acting debut in Paul Thomas Anderson's One Battle After Another. Additionally, his unique, atmospheric production style has earned him nominations for Producer of The Year and Album of The Year for the 2026 Grammy Awards.

No support nor introduction was needed for his Irish debut at the 3Olympia. Fans filled the space, with side conversations singing his praises, as anxious excitement turned into utter awe. In the 5 years since making his debut with Absolutely, Dijon has earned himself a dedicated and impassioned fan base.

He spoke calmly upon introduction, as his presence appeared relaxed in the loose streetwear that clung to his form

The night began with the title track of his latest work, a soulful dedication to his wife and infant son, vulnerably touching on the world-changing experience of entering fatherhood - a central theme to Baby. Backing tracks feature infant babble, with a slow rhythmic production and various moments of untouched raw vocals accentuating ever tender emotion felt.

Dijon's commanding style of 80s synth guitar, brought back images of Prince's legendary Purple Rain era performances, and Phil Collins' No Jackets Required, as lights flickering on our faces and the desire to dance became unable to supress.

But last night we weren't watching throwback highlight reels from MTV years past, the genius stood right there in front of us, giving the audience an opportunity to witness once in a generation talent in real time.

The rapper was all but alone on stage, as his crew of guitarists, keyboardists and percussionists surrounded him, providing concertgoers with every bit of the brain-scratching, textural R&B soundscapes they came to hear. Dijon's gift with the ambient can be seen documented in his collaborative efforts with the likes of Justin Vernon and Mk.gee.

Dijon at 3Olympia Theatre on January 20th, 2026. Copyright Abigail Ring/ hotpress.com

Dijon possesses the rare ability to make songs about sex sound like those of worship, performing tracks such as 'Another Baby!' and 'Yamaha' with a devoted, almost spiritual approach. His lyrics are hopelessly romantic, with lovers in the audience gazing upon each other through dilated eyes in deep understanding.

"But when you really love, it's easy," he sings on 'Higher', as many of his lyrics showcase an undying value of admiration for his partner, even through the hardships that accompany becoming new parents.

He didn't miss out on showcasing fan favourites such as 'Dress' and 'Many Times', as bodies returned his intoxicating, effortlessly cool energy with delighted applause.

In the crowd, fans stood with hands over hearts, unafraid to hone in on this vein of vulnerability, as nodding heads allowed happiness to overflow from the eyes. Dijon's pleading, velvety smooth voice would draw anyone with the capability to listen, into tears.

As the night took to a close and we made our way towards the exit signs, buzzing feels of appreciation lingered on. Though the audience had begun the evening standing between strangers, this disconnect had been removed by the unforgettable experience we shared.