Dermot Kennedy is an Irish Singer/Songwriter who hails from Rathcoole, County Dublin, Ireland. An already impressive career, Kennedy has released two studio albums and was nominated for International Male Solo Artist at the 2020 Brit Awards. Kennedy’s most recent release Let Me In gives us an exciting sneak peak on what to expect from a new album.

Dermot Kennedy has played some of the best known festivals such as Bonnaroo, Lollapalooza, South by Southwest, Austin City Limits, Coachella and now BST Hyde Park. Taking the Great Oak Stage on at BST Hyde Park, just before the headliner Zach Bryan, Dermot Kennedy drew in one of the largest crowds of the day generating an electrifying atmosphere. Taking it all in his stride, you could see he was in his element. Kennedy was our dark horse of the day. A powerhouse vocalist, Kennedy’s stage presence was natural, humble and deeply engaging. He effortlessly connected with the crowd through his heartfelt music and passionate vocals.

Power Over Me, Rome, One Life, Let Me In and closer were the set list highlights. The crowds interaction was both infectious and genuinely moving to witness. I felt slightly regretful that I wasn’t a long-time fan singing along to every word of every song and fully immersing myself within the crowds excitement. The crowd bid farewell in the truest fashion by chanting a thunderous roar that echoed all across Hyde Park. Those who weren’t present for his set, were likely sparked with curiosity and perhaps regretted not being there.

Dermot Kennedy was every part a headliner as the main man himself Zach Bryan. He set the bar incredibly high and we would be eager to catch him on a headline tour in the not too distant future.