Galway’s Dove Ellis eyes Mercury Prize glory
The singer from Na Tuairíní, off the Moycullen Road, takes to the stage tonight as his debut album Blizzard competes against releases from Paul McCartney and RAYE.
Galway singer-songwriter Dove Ellis is in the running for one of British and Irish music’s most prestigious honours tonight as his debut album Blizzard competes for the Mercury Prize.
The 23-year-old Manchester-based musician, from Na Tuairíní off the Moycullen Road, will perform at the ceremony in Newcastle’s Utilita Arena before the winner is announced.
His debut is shortlisted alongside albums by Paul McCartney, RAYE, Olivia Dean and Florence + The Machine. Ellis also contributed to the War Child charity album HELP(2), another of this year’s contenders.
The nomination follows a rapid rise for the Galway artist, who first attracted listeners through demos shared online and small live shows.
His audience expanded during the second half of 2025, when he toured the United States supporting Geese and performed at St James’ Church in Dingle as part of Other Voices.
Released in December 2025, Blizzard brought further international attention, earning enthusiastic reviews from publications including Pitchfork and The Guardian.
Now Ellis is preparing for his first headline concert in Asia. He will play Tokyo’s Daikanyama UNIT on January 8, 2027, followed by an appearance at the rockin’on sonic festival at SGC Hall Ariake two days later.
The Japanese shows will follow a string of Irish, UK and European dates over the coming months.
Before then, he will release Live at Alexandra Palace Theatre through War Child Records on November 13. All proceeds will support the charity’s work with children affected by war, including education, emergency assistance, protection and specialist mental health support.
Founded in 1992, the Mercury Prize recognises outstanding British and Irish albums across musical genres, bringing emerging artists into contention alongside established names.
Lauren Laverne hosts tonight’s ceremony, with live coverage on BBC Four from 9.30pm.