Imagine the shockwaves that rippled through the music world when the news broke: Kodaline, the beloved Irish rock band known for their emotive ballads, is calling it quits after over two decades together. Fans were left reeling, but the band's decision to part ways after a fifth and final album has sparked a mix of sadness and curiosity. But here's where it gets controversial... is this the end of an era, or an opportunity for the band members to explore new creative horizons? Let's dive in.
The band, which rose to fame with hits like “All I Want,” “Brother,” and “High Hopes,” announced their split with a heartfelt video on Instagram. “We know this might come as a surprise, and it's definitely bittersweet for us too,” they shared, acknowledging the emotional toll of their decision. The quartet—Steve Garrigan, Vincent May, Mark Prendergast, and Jason Boland—have been making music together since 2005, originally under the name 21 Demands. They adopted the name Kodaline in 2012, marking a significant shift in their musical direction. That same year, their bassist, Conor Linnane, left the group, and Boland took his place.
Kodaline's journey to stardom is nothing short of inspiring. In 2013, they were nominated for the MTV Brand New award and were shortlisted for BBC's Sound of 2013. Their debut album as Kodaline, A Perfect World, soared to number three in the UK charts and topped the charts in Ireland. The album's standout track, “All I Want,” is famous for its haunting chorus: “If you loved me / Why’d you leave me / Take my body...” Subsequent albums, including 2015's Coming Up For Air and 2018's Politics Of Living, both reached number one in the Irish album charts. Their fourth album, One Day At A Time, released in 2020, reached number two. They also performed at the iconic Glastonbury Festival twice, in 2014 and 2017.
The band's roots run deep in Swords, County Dublin, where Garrigan and May grew up as childhood friends. They formed the band in 2005 with Prendergast and Linnane. As 21 Demands, they gained prominence in November 2006 when they were runners-up in the fifth series of RTÉ's talent show You're a Star. Their journey from busking on the streets of Dublin to playing shows across the world has been nothing short of extraordinary.
In their announcement video, the band reflected on their incredible journey: “From busking on the streets of Dublin to playing shows across the world, it really has been the stuff that dreams are made of.” They expressed their desire to go out on a high note, planning to record their fifth and final album before parting ways. “We want it to end on a high, so before we say goodbye, we're heading into the studio one last time to record our fifth and final album as Kodaline,” they shared.
The band's gratitude towards their fans was evident in their message: “We will be forever grateful for the love and support.” They hope that their music will continue to resonate with listeners long after they've gone their separate ways. “It's been a journey that we'll never forget, and we hope the music stays with you long after we're gone,” they added.
Fans took to social media to express their disappointment and gratitude. One fan wrote, “One of my dreams was to see Kodaline live. Can't believe that chance is gone now. Goodbye to the band that made us feel everything. Kodaline, thank you for the songs, the comfort, the emotions—you’ll always be special.” Another fan pleaded for “one last tour,” saying, “I’ve been listening to your songs since I was 16 (I’m almost 28 now). Kodaline means so much to me, so many of your songs are a part of my life and my story, and I never had the chance to see you guys performing.” And this is the part most people miss... the emotional connection fans have with the band's music is a testament to the band's impact on their lives.
So, what do you think? Is this the end of an era, or an opportunity for new beginnings? Share your thoughts in the comments below. Do you think the band should have considered a hiatus instead of a full split? Or do you believe this is the best decision for their creative growth? Let's discuss!
