Concerts have emerged as a prominent pastime for many young adults in Ireland, particularly among the Gen Z demographic. With a growing appetite for live music, individuals like Kate Henshaw, a 24-year-old from Malahide, are investing significantly in concert tickets, viewing them as a vital part of their social lives. Henshaw estimates her annual expenditure on live music exceeds €1,000, a figure she considers justified given the enjoyment these events provide.

Recent research from the Irish Music Rights Organisation (IMRO) indicates that Irish adults spent an average of €757 on music events in 2024. This number encompasses not only ticket prices but also related costs such as transportation and accommodation. Henshaw’s spending is indicative of a larger trend; individuals aged 25 to 34 spent the most on live events, averaging €849 per person, while those aged 45 to 54 and 18 to 24 were not far behind, averaging €823 and €811 respectively. In contrast, the 35 to 44 age group reported a drop to €615, a trend attributed by IMRO’s chief executive, Victor Finn, to increased care responsibilities during that stage of life.

Henshaw, who attended 16 gigs in the previous year and 19 live music events in 2023, describes a particularly intensive stretch during the summer of 2023, where she attended nine concerts in just 30 days. “I was exhausted,” she reflected. The sheer volume of events contributes to her justification of the costs, as she often purchases tickets well in advance, making the expense feel less burdensome. She admits to spending nearly €1,500 on tickets in 2024 if she were to be completely honest.

Living in Dublin provides Henshaw with access to a range of large-scale concerts. Yet, she notes logistical challenges, particularly with public transport after events. “Public transport could link in better with some of the major events,” Finn remarked, suggesting that improved coordination could alleviate additional costs for concertgoers.

Ticket prices have surged since the return of regular event scheduling following the pandemic. Henshaw recalls that attending concerts was significantly cheaper before the COVID-19 crisis. The demand for live music, coupled with inflation, has propelled ticket costs to new heights. Finn acknowledges this trend, stating, “There’s a sort of social shift in experiencing live events…people wanting to get out and socialise more after the pandemic has benefited the live music sector.”

While Henshaw embraces the concert experience, she draws a firm line at purchasing VIP tickets, which she considers overpriced. “I have never paid VIP for a gig and I never will,” she stated, citing recent examples where VIP packages, such as those for Taylor Swift’s Eras tour, significantly inflated ticket prices. While Henshaw paid approximately €200 for her ticket, a friend opting for VIP access spent nearly €700 for a similar view.

The concert scene in Ireland is not without its challenges. Johnny Wang, a 23-year-old student from Ballsbridge, remarked on the high costs associated with attending major events, stating, “It’s such a rip-off in Ireland at the moment.” Wang has spent at least €700 on concert tickets over the past year, noting that large venues often charge exorbitant amounts. His own experiences include attending around ten gigs in the last year, with his most significant expense being the Lido Festival in London, where general admission tickets started at £75 (€87).

For those like Aoibhinn Clancy, a 22-year-old from Dublin, attending concerts has become a significant part of her lifestyle. Clancy estimates she spent around €1,100 on 14 concert and festival tickets in the last year, emphasizing the value of experiences over material goods. “I have never regretted spending money on a concert,” she stated, highlighting her enjoyment of events featuring artists like Lana Del Rey and Elvis Costello.

Despite the high costs, many young adults continue to prioritize live music as a key part of their social experience. Clancy recognizes that her spending places her among a more dedicated group of concertgoers, stating, “Going to concerts is kind of my thing, my hobby.” As concert attendance remains a cherished activity, the trend reflects not only a passion for music but also a willingness to invest in memorable experiences.

During the Barberstown Castle Sapphire Style Award 2025 at the Curragh Racecourse in Kildare, television personality Arthur Gourounlian humorously referred to his husband, Brian Dowling, as “boring” following a light-hearted exchange about their outfits. The couple, known for their appearances on Dancing With The Stars and The Six O’Clock Show, were present to announce the Best Dressed winner at the prestigious event.

Before the awards ceremony began, Brian showcased their outfits on Instagram. He looked sophisticated in a navy suit jacket paired with matching slacks and a waistcoat, complemented by a navy polka dot tie and a crisp white shirt. In contrast, Arthur opted for a unique ensemble featuring a white embroidered blouse, a blue patterned necktie, and turquoise corduroy trousers.

As they prepared for the event, Brian playfully remarked in a video, “It’s amazing what hair and make-up can do… not just on me.” Arthur, embracing a theme he called “country chic,” received a teasing response from Brian, who noted, “Is that what you’re telling yourself? It’s a see-through blouse with corduroy trousers.” In a light-hearted rebuttal, Arthur called Brian “boring” for his more conventional attire, encouraging him to embrace individuality.

Celebrating Style and Family Fun

The couple’s engaging banter continued as they returned to the main event, where they had the task of selecting a winner for the Best Dressed title. The award ultimately went to Anna Marie, whose outfit was described as “outside the box.” Anna expressed her delight when her name was announced, showcasing her navy capri pants and matching long blazer, topped off with a frilly blouse and a feathered fedora.

The weekend was filled with family activities for the Gourounlian-Dowling household. Arthur spent time with his mother, Maria, sister-in-law, Aoife, and their children, Blake and Blu, at the Smurfs Village in Avondale, Wicklow, the day before the awards. He shared, “Loved every single moment. The Smurfs Village is nothing short of enchanting. From the exceptional presentation to the welcoming atmosphere and the incredible professionalism of the team, everything was truly top-notch.”

After the whimsical experiences at Smurfs Village, the family explored the Beyond the Trees attraction in Avondale Forest Park. Arthur commented positively on their day, stating, “I love discovering new things every day. I adore the view, the nature, and the location. Wow.”

As the weekend wrapped up, it was clear that the Gourounlian-Dowling family enjoyed both the glamour of public events and the joys of family time, blending style with unforgettable experiences.

Alex Warren, a 24-year-old musician from California, has released his highly anticipated sophomore album, You’ll Be Alright, Kid, which dives deep into themes of heartache and the pursuit of fame. Known for his viral hit “Ordinary,” Warren’s music combines a folk-pop style with raw emotional depth, drawing comparisons to artists like Noah Kahan and Rag‘n’Bone Man.

Warren’s life experiences have profoundly shaped his artistic voice. He faced significant personal challenges, including the loss of his father to cancer at a young age and navigating a tumultuous relationship with his mother, an abusive alcoholic. These events have instilled a sense of authenticity in his music that resonates with listeners.

The Journey to Musical Success

Before finding his footing in the music industry, Warren gained fame as a content creator. He built a substantial online following, amassing over two million subscribers on YouTube through prank videos. This early success paved the way for his partnership in the content creators’ collective, Hype-House, alongside stars such as Addison Rae. The collective’s popularity led to a Netflix spin-off, heightening his visibility in the entertainment world.

Despite his TikTok origins, You’ll Be Alright, Kid showcases Warren’s commitment to serious artistry. The album is marked by emotional weight and melodrama, with lyrics that reflect spiritual turmoil and the quest for authenticity. Tracks like “The Outside” poignantly illustrate the emptiness that can accompany the pursuit of fame, encapsulated in lines like, “She thought she’d find it somewhere on the big screen… Hollywood wasn’t all that she thought.”

Musical Exploration and Collaborations

The album spans 21 tracks, highlighting Warren’s ability to craft significant moments within his music. A standout song, “On My Mind,” features backing vocals from Blackpink‘s Rosé, offering a Coldplay-esque ballad that merges popular styles. Other tracks, such as “Bloodline,” a collaboration with country rapper Jelly Roll, bring a refreshing energy that contrasts with Warren’s more introspective pieces.

While Warren’s sound is characterized by a consistent emotional trajectory, some critics suggest that the album occasionally feels repetitive. His vocal style remains within a similar register, and many songs follow a pattern of escalating angst leading to climactic releases. Yet, his storytelling ability shines through, often marked by a hint of religious fervor, as his Catholic faith influences his lyrical perspective.

Despite the album’s heavier moments, it also calls for a balance. Critics note that while the album is impactful, it could benefit from lighter elements that add variety to its emotional landscape. Warren’s journey, from viral fame to serious musician, marks him as an intriguing figure in the contemporary music scene.

As Ed Power from The Irish Times observes, Warren stands as a paradox—a TikTok star navigating the complexities of an evolving music career. You’ll Be Alright, Kid is not just an album; it is a reflection of a young artist grappling with his past while seeking to connect with audiences on a deeper level. The album is set for release on March 15, 2025, and promises to leave a significant mark on the music landscape.

Arthur Gourounlian, a prominent figure from RTE and a judge on Dancing With The Stars, has successfully transformed his back garden through an ambitious DIY project. The renovation comes after Gourounlian and his husband, Brian Dowling, moved into a new home in Dublin last year. The couple, now parents to two young daughters, has been gradually personalising their property, with the recent garden overhaul showcasing their commitment to creating a family-friendly outdoor space.

With Ireland experiencing a significant heatwave over the past week, Gourounlian took the opportunity to revamp their back garden. He shared the entire process on Instagram, revealing a remarkable before-and-after transformation that has captured the attention of fans.

DIY Journey Documented on Social Media

The 45-year-old TV star began the makeover by hand-weeding the driveway, which had become overrun with unwanted plants. Following this initial task, he showcased the revitalised red-bricked driveway, now free of weeds and looking pristine. In a post celebrating this achievement, Gourounlian expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “Guys this feels so good, it’s absolutely amazing.”

Next, he turned his attention to the back patio area, which serves as a play zone for his daughters. Previously cluttered with toys, bikes, and play equipment, the space underwent a significant transformation. Gourounlian revealed a new patio adorned with flower pots and a wooden chair he purchased for his mother, Maria, who is visiting from France. He fondly remarked on the chair’s purpose: “She can enjoy her morning tea and spend the afternoon in the garden with the kids. I think it’s very adorable.”

A Comprehensive Garden Overhaul

The garden’s outskirts featured outdated flower beds that had not been maintained since the couple’s arrival. To enhance the overall aesthetics, Gourounlian bought bark mulch and neatly arranged it around the flower beds, contributing to a cleaner appearance. Additionally, he assembled a swing set for his daughters, completing the family’s outdoor oasis.

The final result of Gourounlian’s efforts is a garden that now looks unrecognisable compared to its previous state. He humorously noted on Instagram, “Mission accomplished, even though my body may be dead and my hands are swollen and blistered. Worth it!” This transformation not only highlights his dedication but also reflects a growing trend among homeowners to take on DIY projects, particularly in the wake of the pandemic.

Gourounlian’s garden renovation exemplifies how personal initiatives can create inviting spaces for families while also serving as a source of personal satisfaction and creativity.