'Organic' method of promoting Irish acts proves to be a big hit

It can be difficult for new and emerging artists to get their music across to a mass audience, as the emergence of fixed playlists, and increased competitiveness among radio stations means that it’s usually more established artists who you will hear over the airwaves.

That is particularly the case with mainstream radio shows, although the likes of Paul McLoone on Today FM (7pm-10pm, Monday to Thursday) does offer an outlet to less well-known musicians.

The dreaded ‘r’ word is providing a perverse boost to the Irish music industry, as musicians who are finding it hard to get a job, are able to spend more time on their music. But without access to a large broadcast base, it’s difficult to get their music out there.

One person who is working hard against that tide – and having some degree of success – is Galway Bay FM presenter and producer, Garry Kelly. The city native has worked at the local radio station for the past three years, and presents The Garry Kelly Show every Saturday from 6pm to 9pm, as well as the early sports bulletins on The Jimmy Norman Show every weekday morning. He found that while there was always a steady flow of new material from Irish artists being sent in to him, the level has increased in the past 12 months. 

The one-time lead singer with local rock bands Epidemic and Komatose was aware of how difficult it can be to get material on the airwaves. So he put his thinking cap on to see what, if anything, could be done to give new Irish acts the platform they deserve. The answer is ORGANICS (Music).

ORGANICS (Music) is a free hour-long podcast uploaded on iTunes every fortnight. The show’s aim is to expand the opportunities in promoting Irish bands and musicians internationally, whether they are signed or unsigned acts.

Most podcasts are solely talk-based, but ORGANICS (Music) differs in that it is a music-based podcast specially licensed by the Irish Music Rights Organisation (IMRO) with all unregistered artists just needing to give their permission for their music to feature.

“I was delighted to see the fresh music being released by new Irish bands, but getting airplay can be difficult so when the recession hit I thought ‘what can I give to the person sitting at home with no job or money, and at the same time benefit others through use of my resources and knowledge?’ – hence in February of this year ORGANICS (Music) was founded.

“Making an IMRO licensed music-based podcast available on iTunes allows people to listen to the podcast at their own convenience and in their own comfort. It also taps into new technology in that it is instantly archived and available, which sets it apart from a radio show.

“With radio, once the programme has been aired, usually that is the end of it, but ORGANICS (Music) provides a back catalogue, so new listeners can catch up on previous episodes whenever they want. The episodes are always available on iTunes,” Garry explains.

For more, read this week's Connacht Tribune.