Cork's Kabin Crew 'an inspiration for others', says Lord Mayor 

Knocknaheeny’s Kabin Crew are hardly strangers to Cork City Hall, but getting a civic reception was something special even for a group so loved in their hometown and so recognised nationally and internationally.

The Lord Mayor of Cork, Green Party councillor Dan Boyle, welcomed the northside heroes to the council chambers to celebrate their success over the last 12 years.

Based in Knocknaheeny, the Kabin Crew is a group of songwriters, rappers, musicians and creatives dedicated to nurturing young musical talent and creating a safe and friendly environment for young people to thrive.

The Kabin Crew was founded in 2013 by Garry McCarthy from GMCBeats Workshops, in partnership with Cork ETB and Music Generation Cork City, to run workshops and recording projects for the local community, helping them develop skills in songwriting and performing.

Real honour

The Kabin Studio’s Cara Cullen said it was a real honour to be in city hall and after appearing on the Late Late Show, performing at “so many festivals last year” and the massive success of the song The Spark, the sky was the limit.

“Who knows what we’ll do next, but I just know whatever it is it will be bigger and better than ever."

Cara’s mum Martina said the Kabin was responsible for changing the way young people see themselves, giving them “amazing” self-confidence.

“It’s just a phenomenal thing to see kids going from shyness to appearing on stage,” she said.

Welcoming the Kabin Crew to the civic reception, Mr Boyle asked how many young people could say they had two billion views on social media, played at Electric Picnic, were long-listed for a Grammy or had their own Christmas TV special.

“More importantly, the young people have been an inspiration for others and a shining example of the creativity and talent we have on the northside of the city,” he said.

Mr Boyle acknowledged the work of Garry McCarthy and all of the mentors, supporters and family who have encouraged, nurtured and supported the Kabin Crew on their journey.