John Spillane

‘John’s songs are the heart and soul of our island and they’ll be sung around the world for as long as there is song.’  – Damien Dempsey

John Spillane is a musician, songwriter, performer, recording artist, storyteller, poet and dreamer. Rooted in people, place and story, his music transports the listener and his live performances captivate audiences around the world.

As an artist, his music appeals to listeners across many genres and generations. His vocal style has a unique almost sean-nós like quality and his performances shimmer with the magic realism that permeates many of his songs as he effortlessly flits between beautiful poetry tinged with melancholy to roguish, irreverent humour. John has the ability to charm, mesmerise and entertain in equal measure.

A two-time Meteor Award winner for Best Folk/Trad act John is one of the most accomplished songwriters in Ireland. With an extensive back catalogue beginning with the 1997 album The Wells of the World, his songs have been covered by Christy Moore, Sharon Shannon, Seán Keane and many others.

Twelve albums later in April 2021, John released his first independent album in 20 years, 100 Snow White Horses and in October 2022, he released ‘In Another Light’ a career spanning album recorded live at the Right Here Right Now Festival recorded at Cork Opera House in November 2021.

We are delighted to welcome John to The Helicon stage, where his performance is sure to captivate and delight.