The Joe Cassidy Chrysalis Award was created in loving memory of the former Belfast native. Joe Cassidy wore a multitude of different hats as a musician, songwriter, singer, producer, artist, manager and mentor while living in Chicago.
The purpose of the award is to provide financial support to a talented band or solo artist who shares Joe’s passion for making original music, his positivity, and his determination to survive and thrive in a very challenging music industry. In honour of Joe, we will also endeavour to give any further practical support we can to the recipient, just as he would have done in his lifetime.
The winner of the award will receive £3000 and will be announced at a special ceremony at the 2023 Northern Ireland Music Prize.
Joe’s sister Frances said “Joe was an exceptional person. He was a gifted musician, and the kindest, most thoughtful and generous brother. His support for fellow artists was inspirational. I am eternally grateful to have had Joe in my life, and am so proud of the beautiful soul he was and everything he achieved. I know he’d approve of what we are trying to do in supporting Northern Ireland based musicians, and hope that as many artists and bands as possible will come forward to apply for the award.”
Charlotte Dryden of Oh Yeah said “This will be a moving tribute, but also a reminder of how many artists like Joe over the years have made a real musical impact away from home. We look forward to welcoming Joe’s Belfast family and Chicago family to the NI Music Prize later this year. The funds they have raised will really help an artist or band in their development. From talking to sister Frances, brother Michael and his friends Sarah and Joe in Chicago, it’s clear how much Joe gave to other musicians and so this is a really fitting way to mark his legacy.”
Full details of the Award including how artists can apply can be found here: Joe Cassidy Chrysalis Award. Applications must be received by 31st August 2023.
