THE CREATIVE WORKSHOP that sparked a global music phenomenon isn’t slowing down — it’s expanding.

The Kabin Studio in Knocknaheeny, the northside Cork community hub behind viral rap group Kabin Crew, has opened a second creative space to meet growing demand.

It’s “world domination on a community level” — at least according to staff at the site.

The new cabin, located just across from the original repurposed metal container in the north side of Cork City, has been affectionately nicknamed ‘Kabin Eile’ or ‘the Two-dio’ by the young people who use it.

Programme manager Máire Dineen said the new cabin has been in development for some time, and was installed around four months ago.

The new cabin was installed over the summer. Kabin Studio Kabin Studio

“The main part of the new cabin is a music room, with laptops, Apple equipment and space for the electronic side of making music,” she said.

It’s an extra space where kids can experiment, collaborate, and bring their musical ideas to life.

“There’s also a small storage area for instruments and a back office, which is much less exciting, but necessary,” Dineen added.

The “old cabin”, where the studio was founded, is “all about writing lyrics, recording raps, singing, podcasting and the kids, teens and adults connecting through music,” she  explained.

The site is used for youth workshops during the week, as well as some studio recording.

The expansion was funded by Healthy Communities, Sláintecare, Cork City Council, the City Northwest Quarter Regeneration Fund and the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.

The Kabin was first set up in 2012 by producer Garry McCarthy (also known as GMCBeats) with the support of Music Generation Cork City.

It has since become a key creative outlet for young people in the area, running regular workshops, songwriting sessions, and recording projects.

The studio rose to international prominence last year when Kabin Crew, a group of young rappers involved in its programmes, released The Spark, a collaboration with the Lisdoonvarna Crew that became a global viral hit.

The track has since racked up over a billion views on TikTok, made it onto the Grammy Song of the Year longlist, and earned the group an RTÉ Choice Music Prize for Song of the Year in April.

Since September, around 90 children and adults have been taking part in workshops and projects between the two sites.

“It’s incredibly rewarding,” Dineen said.

“Every week is busy and full of energy. The new space means more room, more music, and more young people getting involved.”