LYRA announces headline gig at The Academy

There is no doubt that LYRA is on the rise. Having just performed at Electric Picnic, she has sold-out recent headline shows in London and Dublin and supported the likes of Jess Glynne, Dermot Kennedy, and James Bay. Now, LYRA announces her biggest Irish headline yet at The Academy Dublin on 5 March 2020.

The Cork singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist earlier this month released her anthemic new single ‘Mother’, an ode to her mum’s powerful words of encouragement to forget your insecurities and rise above the haters.

“The song is about growing up and wrestling with who I was," says the Cork singer. "Growing up I was teased about my appearance quite a bit, and then as I began to sing, also my voice. It definitely got me down – especially about the singing because I felt like I’d found my passion but was ashamed of doing it."

For the record, there's no shame evident in this vocal anthem that sees LYRA jumping octaves like it's no big deal.

"My mum always told me to rise above it all, accept myself as I was, to be proud of that and enjoy life," she continues. "It’s not always easy. I still have insecurities and worry about all sorts of things. Who doesn’t? But this song’s a reminder to pick your ass up, give it a big old shake to get the dust off, and go hell for leather with anything and everything you want to do – and always remember to encourage others to do the exact same!”

The release of ‘Mother’, chosen by Virgin Media for their new campaign in Ireland, follows on from recent singles ‘Falling’ and ‘Never Let Go’. The singles have caused a real stir across and have already been playlisted across national radio including 2FM, Today FM, and Spin. But for LYRA, 'Mother' was a standout.

“Writing this one with Phil Cook (Birdy, Ellie Goulding), was special – it came together in one day," explains LYRA. "I feel very at ease in the studio with him. There I am, wailing away, not afraid of singing a wild note. And he’s really open and encouraging of those wilder things. It really helps me shape the song."

LYRA also recently caught the attention of Hulu’s Four Weddings and a Funeral by Mindy Kaling who featured LYRA’s cover of "I Only Want To Be With You" on the OST alongside Emeli Sande, Nina Nesbitt, Bishop Briggs, and Naughty Boy.

Tickets for LYRA's gig at The Academy go on sale this Friday, 4 October at 10AM on Ticketmaster.ie.