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Sinéad O'Connor performs on the Late Late Show's 50th anniversary show. O'Connor is one of many acts whose careers have been helped by performances on the Late Late. RTE/Photocall Ireland
new music
'Late Late' launches new initiative to showcase Irish musical talent
RTÉ’s flagship show is opening its floor to bands who do not have managers, publicists or record deals.
THE COUNTRY’S MOST-WATCHED TV show has launched a new initiative hoping to showcase new and emerging Irish musical talent.
The Late Late Show is asking interested acts to submit YouTube videos for consideration to be invited to appear on the show.
Producers hope the new initiative will allow musical acts at all levels to be considered for the show – meaning bands will not need a manager, publicist or record deal before appearing on the programme.
The ‘Late Late’ has helped to expose acts including The Dubliners, U2, Boyzone and Westlife in its 51 years on air, and many acts have acknowledged its role in helping them on their road to commercial success.
(YouTube/Aodhancfc92)
In more recent years the show has helped to launch the careers of Imelda May, The Coronas, Maverick Sabre and The Strypes.
“The Late Late Show has always supported Irish music which is really important because they are the biggest show in Ireland,” said pop impresario Louis Walsh. “Everyone who is anyone started there.
“This new idea is great. Irish acts deserve support. I hope other TV programmes follow their lead.”
Interested acts are asked to email a YouTube like to thelatelateshowcase@rte.ie, together with a 100-word description of their act and a contact phone number.
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