ONE of the most eagerly anticipated events on the Scottish music calendar, the world-renowned Celtic Connections festival returns this month for three weeks of unique live performances and diverse showcases. Set to take over a myriad of Glasgow’s most well-loved venues for the course of its duration, this year’s festival features a star-studded line-up of incredible emerging talent and established stars with around 300 events taking place across the city. Ranging from specially curated gigs from local artists to international artists, TTV has picked out some of the best events that are worth checking out over the festival. 

Get your Celtic Connections tickets here. 

Lewis McLaughlin, Oran Mor, 17th January

Lewis McLaughlin plays Oran Mor this Friday, following the release of last year’s debut album ‘A Hope In Fear’. A songwriter we’ve long admired, he blends introspective lyricism, folk influences and infectious melodies. Support will come from the talented Terra Kin – winner of the BBC Introducing Scottish Act of the Year in 2023 thanks to her distinctive sound which incorporates gentle guitar melodies, atmospheric soundscapes and harmonies.

corto.alto and friends: Made in Glasgow, Barrowlands, 18th January

Spearheaded by the immensely talented and Mercury Prize nominated corto.alto, this mini festival line-up will include the likes of Bemz, Pippa Blundell, Becky Sikasa and Rebecca Vasmant. Showcasing the eclectic nature of Glasgow’s music scene, it promises to be a memorable evening – with everything from jazz to hip hop to folk to electronic.

Start to End perform Prefab Sprout, Oran Mor, 19th January

The Start to End collective, previously known for taking on classic albums by the likes of Joni Mitchell, Daft Punk, David Bowie, Fleetwood Mac, Radiohead and more, are regrouping for another show at Oran Mor. Featuring some of the most in-demand artists and session musicians in Scotland, they’ll perform Prefab Sprout’s famous second album ‘Steve McQueen’ in celebration of its 40th anniversary.

kitti at Drygate Brewery, 22nd January

Paisley-born artist Kitti released her debut album ‘Somethin in the Water’ last year – cementing her position as one of the country’s most exciting jazz performers. With a voice that would stop anyone in their tracks, her music is uplifting as it is transportive – and this show is not to be missed.

No Windows, The Hug and Pint, 25th January

Edinburgh duo and Sound of Young Scotland winners No Windows released their second EP last year ‘Point Nemo’ via Fat Possum Records. The band have made their presence known well beyond the confines of their hometown with a series of gripping live shows, sending their delicately crafted arrangements and gently expansive sound to new heights. One of the most hotly tipped bands in the country, they’ll be supported by Donegal-born, Glasgow-based artist mokusla, known for blending ambient dream-pop, electronic and traditional folk influences, as well as Curiosity Shop, an indie alt-folk five-piece based in Edinburgh.

Roaming Roots Revue presents Icon Vol.1, 27th January 

Following the huge two night sell-out success of 2024’s Songs Of Modern Scotland, Roaming Roots Revue returns to recreate some legendary moments from some of Britain’s most iconic songwriters and bands ever.  

Once again joined by the Royal Conservatoire Of Scotland Symphony Orchestra, conducted by John Logan, Roddy Hart and his house band The Lonesome Fire curate a night of epic music celebrating the icons of the British music scene: from David Bowie to Paul McCartney, The Who to Pink Floyd, Kate Bush to Elton John and beyond. Featuring an all-star line-up including Yola, Villagers, Hamish Hawk, Ed Harcourt, Jill Jackson, Withered Hand & Kathryn Williams, Phil Campbell and acclaimed harmony trio Little Acres.   

KT Tunstall, Barrowlands, 31st January 

KT Tunstall celebrates the 20th anniversary of her iconic debut album ‘Eye To The Telescope’ at this year’s Celtic Connections – with not one but two gigs. The first is at the Royal Concert Hall in Glasgow on 30th January and the second is at the iconic Barrowlands on the 31st January.

Ibibio Sound Machine, Tramway, 1st February

Fronted by Nigerian singer Eno Williams, Ibibio Sound Machine bring their clash of African and electronic elements to Celtic Connections.  

Inspired in equal measure by the golden era of West African funk & disco and modern post-punk & electro, the band’s self-titled debut album was released in 2014 on Soundway Records. Four more albums have been released on Merge Records, including 2024’s Pull the Rope. 

Get your tickets here.
Photographer: Gaelle Beri for Celtic Connections.