Gavin James: Live in the GPO

The 2020 An Post Irish Book Awards were no less thrilling in virtual format than any other year. Incredible homegrown authors were celebrated across 16 categories, including popular fiction, sports, crime and Irish language. While on December 10th, RTÉ aired a special programme celebrating the Book of the Year shortlist, made up of all those winning authors, which culminated in an exclusive performance by Dublin singer Gavin James of his brand-new song, ‘Man on the Moon’. 

Performing in the iconic surrounds of the GPO, he and his family have a long connection with An Post.
 
“My dad just retired from An Post”, the singer explains. “His route was based around Grafton Street, so he would always tell people about my music, and drop demo CDs into music shops!” For Gavin, the GPO is a special place, synonymous with the city and steeped in history and culture. “It’s just such a special, iconic place”, he notes. “It truly is the heart of Dublin.”
 
Though Gavin was excited to perform his new song, ‘Man on the Moon’ as part of this appearance, it’s undoubtedly been a tough year for the artistic community. How has he been adapting? “It’s a difficult time for everyone, especially in the live music and events sector”, he says. “I did some live streaming at the start of lockdown, focusing on charities as well as trying to support the industry. It’s very different from playing normal gigs, but it’s working well. People are really enjoying the music."
 
Looking ahead, how will Gavin be spending the festive season? “Christmas is my favourite time of year!”, he says. “Since lockdown, I’ve really been enjoying cooking, so if we’re allowed to have family over, I’m planning to make dinner.”
 
Will he be sending any cards? “I have family in Canada who I won’t get to see this year, so yes, I’ll be sending on some gifts. I just put out my Boxes EP on CD and vinyl, and we used An Post to deliver them all around the world. So thank you all for getting them to everyone!”
 
Check out the exclusive performance from Gavin on An Post’s social channels, and don’t forget to share your favourite new books with us on social using #ReadersWanted.