Hozier. pictured here in 2019.RollingNews.ie
Fontaines D.C., Hozier, and Sally Rooney all got nods from former US President Barack Obama in his annual favorites lists.
Fontaines D.C.'s song "Favourite" and Hozier's chart-topping hit "Too Sweet" both made the cut in Obama's 'Favorite Music of 2024' list, which he shared on December 20.
The two songs from Irish acts were among 25 songs that made the cut from artists including Billie Eilish, Beyonce, Shaboozey, and Jack White.
Here are my favorite songs from this year! Check them out if you’re looking to shake up your playlist – and let me know if there’s a song or artist I should make sure to listen to. pic.twitter.com/MK51Z77uEb
— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) December 21, 2024
Meanwhile, Obama included Irish author Sally Rooney's latest book "Intermezzo" in his 'Favorite Books of 2024' list.
Rooney was among ten authors on the exclusive list.
I always look forward to sharing my annual list of favorite books, movies, and music. Today I’ll start by sharing some of the books that have stuck with me long after I finished reading them.
Check them out this holiday season, preferably at an independent bookstore or library! pic.twitter.com/NNcAnaFzdU
— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) December 20, 2024
Who is Fontaines D.C.?
Formed in Dublin in 2014, Fontaines D.C. is an Irish post-punk band consisting of Grian Chatten (vocals), Carlos O'Connell (guitar), Conor Curley (guitar), Conor Deegan III (bass), and Tom Coll (drums).
They released their debut album "Dogrel" in 2019, which was followed by "A Hero's Death" in 2020, "Skinty Fia" in 2022, and "Romance" in August 2024.
"Romance" went on to win The Album Award at the Rolling Stone UK Awards 2024. Fontaines D.C. has been nominated for two Grammys in 2025.
Who is Hozier?
A native of Bray, Co Wicklow, Hozier - real name Andrew Hozier-Byrne - rose to global attention in 2013 with his breakout, Grammy-nominated single "Take Me to Church."
In spring 2014, he released his EP "From Eden," which was followed later that year by his eponymous, full-length album.
After several years of touring and promotion, Hozier returned with the EP "Nina Cried Power" and his second full-length album "Wasteland, Baby!," which hit number one in America and Ireland upon its release in 2019.
Hozier released his third studio album "Unreal Unearth" in 2023 and it debuted at number one on the Irish and UK charts. This year, he released his EP "Unheard" which features his smash-hit single "Too Sweet."
Who is Sally Rooney?
A native of Co Mayo, Sally Rooney is the author of the critically acclaimed novels "Conversations with Friends," "Normal People," and "Beautiful World, Where Are You."
Her latest novel, "Intermezzo," was the fastest-selling book in Ireland this year.
Sally Rooney, pictured here in 2019. (Getty Images)