Country music artist Martin Bannon will take to the stage at the Dornoch Music Festival on Friday 17 July, 2026, bringing a growing reputation and a sound shaped between Ireland and the Highlands.
Born in Belfast and now based in Inverness, Bannon is quickly becoming a recognised name in the UK country music scene, blending traditional influences with a modern edge.
His music draws from classic country greats, with the storytelling and tone of artists like Kenny Rogers, Randy Travis and Garth Brooks clearly running through his work.
With more than two decades of live performance experience, Bannon has built his craft on stage, performing extensively across Scotland and Northern Ireland and developing a reputation as a strong and engaging live performer.
That experience is now translating into wider recognition, with Bannon named Singer-songwriter of the Year at the Scottish Country Music Awards 2025.
His rise has also gained international attention, earning an honourable mention from American Songwriter Magazine for his unreleased track “Somewhere Over The Railroad”.
In early 2025, he released his debut single “If That Don’t Make Me Country”, a track that reflects his journey from Belfast to the Highlands and captures the identity he brings to his music.
The song carries a clear sense of authenticity, rooted in personal experience while staying true to the traditions of the genre.
Bannon has also recently returned from Nashville, where he completed recording work on his debut album, further underlining his ambition and commitment to developing his sound.
Alongside his studio work, he continues to build his live presence, performing at events including Glasgow’s Grand Ole Opry, Country on the Clyde and Summer in Nashville.
He has also opened for Nashville singer-songwriter Hannah Anders on several UK tour dates, further strengthening his position as a rising name in the scene.
His appearance at Dornoch Music Festival adds to a strong and varied line up, with the event continuing to bring both established names and emerging talent to the Highlands.
For audiences, Bannon offers something genuine and grounded, a performer shaped by experience, rooted in tradition and clearly moving forward.
With momentum building and a busy year ahead, his Friday night set is shaping up to be one of the weekend’s standout moments.
