Madra Salach and Fontaines D.C. among BBC Radio 6 Music's Artists of the Year

Madra Salach and Fontaines D.C. were among several musicians named as BBC Radio 6 Music's Artists of the Year. Announced each November, the list features a mixture of established and rising acts, who have made an impact in 2026 through their creativity, innovation, and musical skill.

Other musicians on the list include beabadoobee, Charli XCX, corto.alto, Erykah Badu, Mandy, Indiana, Phoebe Bridgers, Robyn, Show Me the Body, Shygirl and The Cure.

 

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Madra Salach shared a statement about the announcement.

"We’re so excited to be one of 6 Music’s Artists of the Year! Thanks to everyone at 6 for all the support particularly on our upcoming album. You took a chance on some bashful Irish boys, we won’t let you down. We promise."

Their debut album Gorta will drop on January 15, 2027. The indie band released the record's first single 'Ribbon Factory' on October 2.

They will have several sold-out Irish shows in December. In 2027, the group will embark on their Gorta UK and Europe tour, to celebrate the release of the album. This includes three dates at Dublin's Vicar Street and a show at The Telegraph Building in Belfast in April 2027.

The band will feature on their own radio show, A 6 Music Artist in Residence series from Madra Salach, where they play an hour of their favourite music. It runs this week until Thursday, November 5. They will also feature on Steve Lamacq’s show on Monday, November 9, from 4pm to 7pm.

Fontaines D.C. released their fifth studio album, Dopamine Chamber, on October 16. The record is currently at No. 1 on the Irish Albums Chart and at No. 2 on the UK Albums Chart.

The band are set to headline Slane Castle, Co. Meath in June 2027. They will be the third Irish act, along with Thin Lizzy and U2, to headline the venue. The band were originally supposed to perform one show, however a second was added due to demand.

They will be joined by special guests Hayley Williams, Damien Dempsey, and Madra Salach, with more to be announced.

The band have announced a run of shows in Japan, Australia, and New Zealand in January 2027. They will also be embarking on a North American tour, beginning in April 2027. Dates include Boston, Chicago, Seattle, and Atlanta.

Tickets for Madra Salach's upcoming shows can be found here, while Fontaines D.C. tickets for Slane Castle can be found here.