Kenan Flannery

The Essence of Folk Music in its rawest and most authentic form.

Praised for writing “bone-breakingly beautiful” music, Kenan Flannery is a 26-year-old, IYMA award-winning folk songwriter from Dublin, Ireland. At his core, Kenan is a storyteller for the damned and the broken, crafting heart-wrenching narratives delivered with a voice that hits with the intensity of a hundred Irish poets. He masterfully intertwines his upbringing in the Irish ballad tradition—inspired by legends like The Dubliners—with a deep-seated love for American roots music. This unique sonic bridge has earned him frequent comparisons to songwriting titans such as John Prine, Townes Van Zandt, and Blaze Foley.

Kenan’s ascent through the Irish music scene has been marked by performances on its most prestigious stages. In 2022, he graced the National Stadium and the world-renowned Ruby Sessions, following in the footsteps of artists like Ed Sheeran and Damien Rice. His reputation as a formidable live act was further solidified by opening for The Wolfe Tones before a crowd of 2,000 and supporting Gravedancer on his debut Irish tour. By 2023, he was a fixture on the festival circuit, sharing stages at Electric Picnic and West Cork’s The Secret Song with luminaries such as Lisa Hannigan, Ye Vagabonds, and Junior Brother.

The last two years have seen Flannery evolve into a true international troubadour. Following a landmark debut European tour across eight countries in 2024, his 2025 schedule became even more relentless, encompassing two European tours, two UK tours, and a national Irish run. During this time, he was hand-picked to open for heavyweights The White Buffalo and John R Miller, proving his ability to captivate audiences ranging from intimate clubs to major halls. His performances are celebrated as one-of-a-kind experiences—vivid storytelling sessions that leave audiences laughing, crying, and singing in equal measure.

Most recently, Kenan released his acclaimed five-track acoustic album, Old Love Letters, recorded at Copper Kelly's Studio in Wexford. With a debut full-band studio album on the horizon and a massive 2026 schedule—including a 39-show European tour and a headline show presented by MCD Productions—Kenan Flannery has firmly established himself as one of the most unique and vital storytellers in the international folk scene today. He is, without question, an artist to keep an eye on.

“The master of meaningful lyrics”. - Noel Murphy, Noely's Naughty Nightly Nitpick

“Kenan is a captivating artist, not only does he pour his heart and soul into his engaging, original songs, he enthrals the listener with his pure raw passion, guitar playing, and heavy hitting vocal accompaniment.” - Gavin James Breere, Nerano Music Sessions

“Quality writing with raw emotion.” - Doug Green, New York Live Promotions