TikToker Ari Elkins has amassed over 2 million followers on the video-sharing platform for his music analysis and recommendations.
US TikTok star Ari Elkins has said what we here on the Emerald Isle have known for decades: The Best New Music Is Coming From Ireland.
In a series that has since gone viral, the 21-year-old TikTok phenomenon has listed some of the biggest names in Irish music from the past and present.
Helping music lovers find new tracks to listen to and sharing his current favourites, Elkins has a captive audience who trust his recommendations – and we think this new series proves just how great his taste in music really is.
A track record of amazing music – years of legends
The US TikTok star started a series on his account stating that the best new music is coming from Ireland. He said, “Ireland has a track record of producing absolute legends.”
Listing a few well-known names, he said U2’s “anthems define generations” while Hozier is “redefining modern soul”. He also highlighted Dermot Kennedy, stating his voice is “pure emotion” and his “storytelling is unmatched”.
Highlighting that these artists “set global standards”, Ari highlighted how this same pattern is continuing with a new wave of Irish talent following in their footsteps.
He mentioned up-and-coming names like indie rising star Will Troy from Wexford and English-Irish singer-songwriter Rose Betts.
A new generation of Irish musicians – continuing the island’s legacy
Ari’s original video has racked up over half a million views so far, attracting comments from Irish icons like Cian Ducrot, Darren Kiely, and Jedward.
Many fans also took to the comments to encourage Ari to check out their favourite Irish artists. Names mentioned included the likes of Kneecap, Fontaines DC, and Inhaler.
Cian Ducrot, who has risen to prominence for hits like ‘Part Of Me’ and ‘I’ll Be Waiting’, commented. He said, “Let’s not forget Thin Lizzy, Sinéad O’Connor, Rory Gallagher, Snow Patrol, The Script, Kodaline, The Cranberries!! The List Goes On!”
Continuing his series claiming the best new music is coming from Ireland, the US TikTok star responded to Ducrot’s comment with a follow-up video.
He said these artists’ songs “defined eras and inspired generations”, and this is something that the new generation of Irish musicians is carrying on.
Highlighting three of his current favourites, including Kingfishr, JC Stewart, and Aby Coulibaly, Ari argues that Ireland is “proving itself as a global leader in music, past and present.”
The best new music is coming from Ireland – up-and-coming artists you need to know
After the first two videos went viral, the TikTok star responded to comments to continue his series claiming that the best new music is coming from Ireland.
In subsequent videos, he’s been revealing ‘New Irish Artists You Need To Know’. Some of the names he’s mentioned include Darren Kiely, Kingfishr, and Amble.
We’re glad to see Ireland’s rich musical scene gaining the global recognition it deserves. Which other artists do you think deserve a mention?
Check out Ari’s videos on new Irish music here.
