Cork children win RTÉ Choice Music Prize's Song of The Year

Viral hit The Spark, by children in Knocknaheeny-based hip-hop group Kabin Crew and Lisdoonvarna Crew, has won the RTÉ Choice Music Prize's Song of The Year.

The winner, announced on Thursday, was chosen from a shortlist of 10 eligible Songs from the year, and decided by a public vote.

RTÉ Choice Music Prize celebrates Irish music of excellence by awarding prizes in five categories, Album of the Year; Song of the Year; Artist of the Year; Breakthrough Artist of the Year and Classic Album.

The group shared the news on social media, writing: “We're speechless!!! The Spark has won RTÉ 2FM's Choice Music Prize for Irish Song of the Year!

“From a small idea at The Kabin Studio to a track that reached every corner of the world, this journey has been nothing short of incredible. The memories, the opportunities, the friendships - this song has meant so much to the young people involved, their families, and the entire community in Knocknaheeny and Lisdoonvarna.

“A huge thank you to everyone who voted, supported, and believed in what we do. This isn't just a win for us - it's a win for every young person who has a voice, a story, and a dream. This will keep inspiring us to collaborate with so many young legends, helping them express themselves, build confidence through music.

“The world needs more positivity, more creativity, more young voices. Let's keep sparking change.” Sinn Féin TD for Cork North Central Thomas Gould told The Echo that the win was well deserved: “We’re really proud of Kabin Crew, what they’ve done is just unbelievable, they’re recognised all over the world, playing concerts all over Europe.

“It goes to show, some kids are academic, some are sporty, some are artists – there’s no doubt that these kids are special, it’s unbelievable the talent they have.” 

Mr Gould added that it was great to see them expanding, with people from all over the northside initially and now all over the city linking in with the group.

“We need more initiatives like this to bring younger people’s talent in the arts out, there’s a lot of funding recently for sport, which is deserved, but the arts are something the government and Cork City Council need to look at further.

“I know that Kabin Crew are in talks with the council for a purpose built facility, and that’s something that myself and councillors Michelle Gould and Kenneth Collins have been advocating for – a centre of excellence, they have one in Dublin.

“This group represent all that’s positive about Knocknaheeny, they’re a great representation for the community and they’re breaking stereotypes.” He praised the group’s producer and creative director Garry McCarthy for his leadership and foresight, saying: “It just goes to show what people can achieve when they’re supported, well done to him and all involved.”