Rising Star: Jesse Sludds Wins Late Late Show Opening Act Competition
Jesse Sludds, a talented 19-year-old musician from Wexford, emerged as the winner of the inaugural Late Late Show Opening Act competition. His captivating performance of Tracy Chapman's "Fast Car" secured him a significant opportunity in his country music career. Sludds impressed the judges and audience with his unique style, earning him the chance to open for Shania Twain at Limerick's Thomond Park in July 2026 and perform on The Late Late Show Country Special in October 2026. Despite his initial doubts about entering the competition, Sludds's friends and family encouraged him to participate, leading to his well-deserved victory.
Throughout the competition, Sludds received high praise from the judging panel, which included Una Healy, Sandy Kelly, Ben Earle, and Tom Dunne. They commended his exceptional talent and described his performance as sensational, amazing, and star-worthy. Sludds draws inspiration from artists like Gavin James, Tracy Chapman, and Ed Sheeran, blending pop, folk, and country influences in his music. He believes in the evolving nature of country music, highlighting its storytelling tradition and genre-blending tendencies that appeal to a diverse audience while staying true to its roots.
The Late Late Show Opening Act competition was created to showcase Ireland's emerging country music talent and provide a platform for artists to gain national recognition. Sludds's win signifies the success of this initiative, which aims to support and promote homegrown musical talent in the country genre. His victory marks a new chapter in his music career, opening doors to exciting performance opportunities and further establishing him as a rising star in the country music scene.