Cork students rise to fame with summer hit The Spark

In a suburb outside Cork city, a vibrant collaboration known as Kabin Crew has emerged, bringing together young songwriters, rappers, and creatives aged nine and up, alongside refugee children from County Clare. This initiative, part of a non-commercial project funded by Creative Ireland, has led to the creation of a viral hit, 'The Spark,' which has garnered over 51 million streams and billions of views across social media platforms. The song's lyrics reflect themes of energy and self-discovery, resonating with a wide audience. The Kabin Studio, a colorful repurposed container, serves as the creative hub for these young artists. On a typical day, the studio buzzes with excitement as children prepare for performances, showcasing their unique styles and personalities. The collaboration has provided these young talents with opportunities to perform at various festivals in Ireland and Scotland, culminating in a significant performance at Pukkelpop, Belgium's largest music festival. The creative process involved developing the song's chorus and verses in Cork, followed by contributions from children in a direct provision center, highlighting the inclusive nature of the project. The response from audiences has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing their joy and pride in being part of such a meaningful initiative. Ultimately, this collaboration not only showcases the artistic talents of these young individuals but also emphasizes the power of creativity in bridging communities and fostering connections among diverse groups. The success of 'The Spark' has undoubtedly put Cork on the map in the music scene, inspiring future generations of artists.