Rory Carroll

Join Rory Carroll, the Guardian's Ireland correspondent, who covers the inspiring story of 'The Spark', and Gary McCarthy, creative director at The Cabin Studio, as they dive into the magic behind a viral hit. They discuss the vibrant collaboration between kids from diverse backgrounds and the transformative power of music through community initiatives. Discover how this electrifying summer anthem captivated over a billion listeners on TikTok and the joy found in creative expression at the Electric Picnic festival.

Join Rory Carroll, The Guardian's Ireland correspondent, and Roisin Lanigan, an Irish writer from West Belfast, as they explore the provocative rise of the rap group Kneecap. They discuss how Kneecap's music blends humor and political commentary, reflecting on Northern Ireland's history. The duo delves into how their art challenges political figures and intertwines with cultural identity, particularly through their use of the Irish language. Controversies abound around their performances, highlighting the complexities of artistic expression in a turbulent socio-political landscape.