Mayo's Chris Cresham is wildcard award winner in top talent event
After a highly competitive public vote, Chris Cresham, representing Galway Bay FM, is the overall wildcard award winner in the A New Local Hero talent competition.
The news was announced as part of last night’s live finale event at The Academy in Dublin – which featured performances from the six national finalists, as well as special guest Tolü Makay.
As the wildcard award winner, Chris Cresham will receive a €2,500 bursary.
Chris has thanked everyone who helped him on this journey over the last number of weeks.
Recently named "A New Local Hero" by Galway Bay FM for Irish Music Month, associated with Hot Press Magazine, Cresham has kept his momentum going with new music releases, a sold-out headline show at Garbo's, and recognition from notable artists like JC Stewart and Brad Heidi.
Last night, the Mayo native added another highlight to his year, winning the wildcard award at The Academy.
He took home a prestigious €2,500 cash prize along with a plaque to commemorate this incredible achievement.
Chris also recently dropped his new track, "Catching Fire," which has gained viral attention on TikTok and was selected as iRadio's Track of the Month.
Additionally, Kingfishr collaborated with him on the acoustic version of "Catching Fire," further cementing his growing presence in the Irish music scene.
He has worked with talents such as ex-Voice of Ireland star Liam Geddes and Kingfishr’s producer Patrick O’Donnell, leading to tracks that have amassed over 200,000 Spotify streams.
Hot Press Magazine noted: "The artist's latest offering could put him in the leagues of Irish talent such as Cian Ducrot, Moncrieff, and Dermot Kennedy."
Praised by Pure M Magazine as "a force to be reckoned with in the music industry," Chris combines modern indie pop and folk with a unique style.
He has opened for artists like Chasing Abbey, Michael Moloney, and Hudson Taylor.
His work has also earned national radio play on Today FM, SPIN, iRadio, and 98FM, establishing him as one of Ireland’s most promising musical talents.