RTÉ Choice Music Prize names first ever winner of its new ‘Classic Irish Album’ award

It's a classic in fairness.

Sinéad O’Connor's second record 'I Do Not Want What I Haven't Got' has been named the winner of the inaugural RTÉ Choice Music Prize 'Classic Irish Album'. The sophomore LP was announced as the winner by Tracy Clifford on 2FM on Monday (6 March). The judges for the prize were Ann Maire Shields (BIMM), Jenny Huston (SiriusXM), Rick O’Shea (RTÉ Gold) and Stuart Clark (Hot Press), while Paul Russell (2FM) was the non-judging chairperson. In a statement, RTÉ said the panel felt that the ten songs on the 1990 album represented “a stunning body of work by an Irish artist, scorching with originality in songs that are as resonant today as they were more than 30 years ago".

Sinéad O'Connor

The broadcaster stated:

"Sinéad’s second album is a testament to her extraordinary musical and vocal talent and her determination to stand apart. From her take on Thatcher’s Britain in 'Black Boys On Mopeds' to the drum-sampled interpretation of the 17th-century poem 'I Am Stretched On Your Grave', this is an outstanding Irish album. And, at its heart is the riveting and unmistakable voice of Sinéad O’Connor." "Sinéad’s dominant presence in Irish music, both at home and abroad, spans five decades thanks to her iconic voice and her uncompromising approach to life.

Meanwhile, the winners of the Irish Album of the Year, Irish Artist of the Year and Irish Breakthrough of the Year categories for 2022 will be announced at an RTÉ Choice Music Prize live event in Vicar Street in Dublin on Thursday, 9 March. This will also be broadcast live on RTÉ 2FM in a special four-hour extended show from 7-11pm with Jenny Greene. Meanwhile, the Irish Song of the Year for 2022 will be announced by Tracy Clifford on Thursday afternoon, with Clifford also hosting the event that night. The live show in Vicar St will feature performances from five of the album-shortlisted acts, while O'Connor will also be in attendance to collect her prize. Related articles:

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