‘SexyTadhg’ brings queer identity to Irish language with new single

CARLOW-born artist ‘SexyTadhg’ has released a unique new single that aims to reintroduce queer identity to the Irish language, cementing their position as one of Ireland’s most exciting emerging voices.

The track, titled Ceannasacht (pronounced 'can-a-sooked'), is a blend of jazz and neo-soul featuring entirely Irish language vocals. The song represents a bold artistic statement from the performer, whose real name is Tadhg Griffin. “I wanted to boldly reintroduce queer identities into Gaeilge, so I wrote Ceannasacht,” explains SexyTadhg. 

The artist says that when the Irish language was revived through the education system after near-extinction due to English colonisation “any semblance, idea or suggestion of queer identity or any basic individuality was completely obliterated from the language”.

The new single draws inspiration from jazz, R&B and artists like D’Angelo, Hiatus Kaiyote and Erykah Badu, exploring themes of sexual exploration and identity. “There have always been, and there always will be, queer Irish speakers, stories and people. Ceannasacht demands that fact to live on,” SexyTadhg states.

The Carlow native has had a breakthrough year, building a reputation for theatrical performances and fearless queer expression. Recent achievements include opening for The Mary Wallopers on an 18-date UK tour, appearances on BBC Radio 6 Music and multiple Irish national TV performances, including on RTÉ’s Six O’Clock Show.

SexyTadhg has also performed locally, appearing at both Carlow Pride festival and Carlow Arts Festival, bringing their distinctive sound to home audiences.

The Irish Times recently named SexyTadhg one of its ‘50 to watch’ and the artist received the Dublin Fringe Festival’s ‘Radical Spirit’ award. Major festival appearances have included Electric Picnic, Beyond The Pale and Other Voices.

BBC Radio 6 Music’s Amy Lamé has described SexyTadhg as “an artist I’ve been following for a while”, while The Irish Times praised them as “a shining light in Irish music” with “a bona fide rock star presence”.

The single is part of an upcoming EP titled Sexy, which promises to explore themes of sex, defiance and queer life in Ireland. 

SexyTadhg has headline shows scheduled for London, Cork and Dublin, with a major Dublin performance at the Academy Mainroom on 21 November.