Multi-platinum singer-songwriter Dermot Kennedy has released "Refuge," the second single from his third album, The Weight of the Woods, set for March 27 via Island Records. The track follows the lead single "Funeral" and features introspective lyrics about vulnerability and perseverance. Kennedy co-wrote the album in rural Ireland with collaborator Gabe Simon.
Dermot Kennedy's new single "Refuge" opens with gentle acoustic guitar, building to a passionate refrain that captures personal reflection. The lyrics include: "Say I’m invincible, it’s all a lie ‘cause darling I’m shaking tonight, chasing a dream, but I’m tired. If we never make it, at least we can say we died trying."
Kennedy explained the inspiration behind the line: “I like the ‘died trying’ lyric, because it reminds me of 50 Cent’s Get Rich or Die Tryin’.” He described a contrast between his onstage confidence and inner vulnerability: “On stage, I’ll feel supremely confident…Nobody can shake me. I think the people who are close to me will view me as solid and strong, but it’s not always the case. Gabe brought the vulnerability out of me. Instead of asking what I wanted to write about, he took my notebook and started reading it. All of my feelings were on display.”
The album The Weight of the Woods, comprising 14 tracks, was largely written and recorded in a studio near Kennedy's home in rural Ireland, with additional sessions in Nashville alongside Gabe Simon, known for work with Noah Kahan and Lana Del Rey. Kennedy drew from his surroundings for the record's themes: “To me, the album is a beautiful homegrown thing with Irish instruments and an Irish story. There’s a forest behind my house, which is a haven for my sense of wonder. It’s a peaceful place where I can escape. I’ve entertained the idea of living somewhere else, but I don’t think I’d be happy anywhere else.”
He adopted a stripped-back approach to highlight his voice: “If I get up in a pub with just a guitar or a piano, I’m certain that I can sing to a room full of people. It’s where I’m the most comfortable. I wanted that element to be front-and-center on this album.” The result blends traditional folk, country elements, and memorable melodies.
The release precedes Kennedy's largest tour in May and June 2026, covering Europe and UK arenas, including London's O2 on June 5, followed by two Dublin Aviva Stadium shows in July. Recent performances include tours, a Soccer Aid halftime show, and appearances with Zach Bryan at British Summer Time and Notre Dame Stadium. Kennedy also curated the sold-out MISNEACH festival in Sydney and Boston in March, featuring artists like The Frames, Matt Corby, and Kneecap to celebrate Irish music heritage.
