''Multi-instrumentalist Rawney (Ciarán Calnan) is an independent artist hailing from Clonakilty in West Cork. His blend of rock, indie, folk and pop has drawn comparisons to The Frames, Mic Christopher, Incubus, Foo Fighters and Stereophonics among others.
Having played in various bands from the age of 12, he has been focusing on solo endeavours of late and his debut EP, Say It Loud, was released in July ‘22.
The EP was officially launched at a sold out show in the legendary DeBarra's Folk Club, Clonakilty. This was followed by full-houses at the Clonakilty International Guitar Festival, Winthrop Avenue in Cork and Levis' Ballydehob, along with further successful tour dates in Dundalk's Spirit Store, Connolly's of Leap and Uisce Beatha, Waterford. There were also support slots with Mick Flannery, Susan O'Neill and Pauline Scanlon.
His two singles, Say It Loud & Red Handed, have been getting regular radio play around the country since they were released, with the first single Say It Loud winning The Cork Playlist Song of the Month for June ‘22.
In February ‘23, as part of Irish Music Month, Rawney was announced as a finalist with Ireland’s Classic Hits Radio in the 'A New Local Hero' competition, after entering his song Red Handed.
Music is in the blood. Son of the late Billy, drummer of a popular showband in Cork from the late 70s onwards, it's no surprise that Rawney has continued that legacy, albeit with more focus on original material. "One of my earliest ever memories is sitting on my dad's knee playing the drums. Growing up watching him and my uncles playing together was a great inspiration. I suppose it was only a matter of time before I started playing!"
Renowned for his powerful vocals and energetic live performances, he has honed his craft over the past decade by performing hundreds of gigs, both at home and abroad in Ireland, Australia, Canada, USA, Vietnam and Spain.
With new songs in the bank, upcoming videos to be released and a summer/autumn tour in 2023, the future looks bright for the Clonakilty man.
'...a bright and bold EP' - pitchperfectsite.com
"Many talents come and grow in Clonakilty, but Rawney’s voice, guitar playing, drumming and all round musicality make him
one of Guitartown's MVPs." - Clonakilty International Guitar Festival
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