The weekend is almost here – and to celebrate, we're bringing you a highly anticipated performance from Tanaka X, going live on the Hot Press Instagram at 7.30pm!

After establishing himself as a serious force in alternative R&B back in 2018, with a high profile support slot for former JLS member Aston Merrygold, Tanaka X, aka Johnson Tanaka Furusa, stepped back into the spotlight with his debut single, 'Let You Know', last month. The 22-year-old rapper, singer-songwriter and producer – who was crowned the winner of NiStars Talent Competition in 2015, and Belfast Nashville Young Songwriters in 2017 – has built up a reputation as a multi-talented star-in-the-making.

With the support of the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, we've been able to shine a light on some of the best young and emerging talent that Ireland has to offer over the last year – with a brilliant selection of acts joining Hot Press on Instagram for special live-streamed performances.

Following the remarkable success of last year's Y&E Series – which featured 120 live acts, and an audience reach of over four million – the new edition launched last month, with a dazzlingly diverse selection of artists set to join us over the days ahead.

Watch Tanaka X on the Hot Press Lockdown Sessions' The Y&E Series, supported by the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, TONIGHT – Friday, April 30 – live on the Hot Press Instagram (@hotpressmagazine) at 7.30pm.

In the meantime, we're delighted to present our spectacular upcoming line-up for the Y&E Series – going live every night at 7.30pm:

Saturday, May 1: LUKE POWER
After high profile support slots for Picture This, Luke Power – the son of The Script's drummer Glen Power – took a three-year hiatus from the spotlight. Now he's back with an arsenal of new tracks ready to go. Bringing together elements of electronic music and radio-ready pop, he has emerged as a compelling solo artist, with the release of 'Penance', 'Drinks', 'Every Night' and 'Tell Me Lies' already this year.