Pio Hartnett

Pio Hartnett is a singer-songwriter and producer from Galway. In 2020, he met producer Zak Higgins (Tomike, Omo Aston, Dendo) whilst both were working on a collaboration for an R&B singer. The pair hit it off, and would spend the next two years crafting their own brand of organic pop.

The result is a blend of pop, folk, R&B and indie rock, and can be identified by Pio's intricate harmonies, distinctive voice and poignant lyrics. His live sets are intimate no matter how big the crowd - he is an artist that is truly capturing people's hearts, with a growing listenership from Ireland to Canada to Japan.

2022 saw his searing vocal arrangements stun packed venues, from a featured performance for Breaking Sound at The Grand Social in July, to an intimate show at The Crowbar, Button Factory, in his local Dublin in December. Three singles across the year won him local and international radio-play, Track of the Year for ‘Grand Prix’ by The GOO Dublin (Going Out Out Magazine), and praise from Tom Rosenthal and Philip Magee (Kodaline, The Script, Gavin James). His latest release, ‘Will you be back before dark?’, saw him collaborate with award-winning director Andy Asco for an accompanying music ‘film’ set in Phoenix Park, Dublin - and a placement in Spotify’s Fresh Finds UK & IE playlist.

With a BIMM Diploma in Commercial Modern Music (specialising in songwriting) under his belt, Pio has a real knack for relatable songs which have been described so far as dazzling, cinematic and heartfelt. Fans of Ben Howard, Matt Corby and Frank Ocean will love Pio's ability to bounce from haunting soundscapes to sincere songwriting. Having already collaborated with acclaimed artists in the Irish and UK R&B scene, received impressive media coverage and with 'Will you be back before dark?' receiving 40k+ streams and counting, the future looks bright for Pio.

He is to release his debut EP, 'Cargo' - a sprawling 9-track labour of love - on 21 April 2023. It will be accompanied by his highly popular live show, which has gained notoriety for its bright energy, occasional string feature, and explosive full-band accompaniment. 'Cargo' EP launch show will take place in The Workman's Club (Main Room) on 18 April 2023. Interestingly, he has opted to offer tickets completely free of charge (Eventbrite), as a thank you to his audience's support over the past five years since he came to Dublin to embark on a music career.

WHAT THE PRESS ARE SAYING. . .

"Pio was a dream for Low Light Sessions, he created a beautifully intimate atmosphere from the moment he started to the final goodbye, capturing the entire venue's attention and admiration"
- Eoghan O'Dowd (Venue Booker)

"Pio Hartnett looks set to take a step into centre stage."
- Ciaran Brennan, Hot Press

"While Hartnett’s vocals are rich and bold, there is also something haunting in their soulful execution"
- Nicole Mendes, The Other Side Reviews

"Nothing short of phenomenal"
- Sha, The Bops Collective

"Astounding vocals and enchanting instrumentation"
- Karley Myall, Strike A Note