Locklin has been selected to represent Tipp FM in the A New Local Hero competition between 25 stations during Irish Music Month.

Barry Thomas McLoughlin (aka Locklin) launched his four-track debut EP, entitled Never Forget, back in 2018. McLoughlin was previously rhythm guitarist in The Rumours.

Each finalist got the chance to play live on Tipp FM, with all of the artists – thanks to the support of the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland, under its Sound & Vision scheme – being paid for their performance.

As one of the central features of Irish Music Month, A New Local Hero is a major call to arms for Irish musicians and bands – with all 25 participating radio stations having reached out for submissions as part of the talent search.

25 acts, including LIA, have been selected as their radio station's A New Local Hero. Now, an industry judging panel will choose just five of those acts to go forward to play at a special showcase event in Dublin.

The A New Local Hero campaign will ultimately see over  €100,000 paid directly to Irish artists – and one worthy winning act selected, who will get to record a single at the prestigious Camden Recording Studios in Dublin, and release the single on the famed Irish independent record label Rubyworks.