Donegal singer-songwriter releases debut single and announces headline gig in Derry

Donegal singer-songwriter Kevin Laughlin is set to headline Bennigan’s in Derry following the release of his debut single. 

This is his first major hometown-style headline show following the release of Play It Cool on March 5. 

Kevin is a 22-year-old folk-pop musician from Leitir, steadily carving out his own space in the Irish music scene. Influenced by the songwriting craft of Paul Brady, John Mayer and Billy Joel, his music blends honest storytelling with melodic hooks and a contemporary edge. Drawing inspiration from the timeless songwriting of artists such as James Taylor and Paul Brady, Play It Cool blends warm, melodic arrangements with sincere, reflective lyricism.

As a debut release, the track offers an authentic first glimpse into Laughlin’s songwriting voice, thoughtful, relatable, and grounded in real-life experience.

The song explores the universal feeling of believing you have life all figured out, only to realise that certainty is often an illusion. At its core, Play It Cool embraces a simple but powerful message: sometimes the best thing you can do is steady yourself, trust the journey, and keep moving forward.

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“This song came at a time when I really thought I had my life all planned out, but quickly came to realise I had not,” Laughlin says. “So I wrote Play It Cool about just accepting that not everything will always go as planned in life or love. Sometimes you’ve got to just roll with the punches and play it cool.”

Produced by Ryan Sheridan, the single pairs polished production with emotional honesty, allowing Laughlin’s vocal delivery and storytelling to take centre stage. The collaboration brings a refined sound to a debut that feels both intimate and assured. 

Having played music since age 14, Laughlin developed his sound through years of live performance before turning his focus to original material after completing his BMus. That shift marked a pivotal moment in his career, leading him to begin working with Ryan Sheridan at 1DB Artist Development in January 2025. 

Laughlin continues to build momentum on the road, joining Gearóid McCarthy on tour from February through April, performing at venues across Ireland as he brings his music to new audiences ahead of the release of his debut single.

Tickets are available for the headline gig at Bennigan's in Derry on May 16.

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