Damien O’Kane is earning a growing reputation for being a creative and exciting musician and singer. His banjo playing in particular has led him to being regarded as one of the finest Irish players on the scene today and he’s winning accolades as a singer, focusing on songs from his native Northern Ireland.
He is probably best known for his work with Shona Kipling and Flook but has recently been a full-time member of Kate Rusby’s band.

Damien released his debut solo album Summer Hill on May 3, 2010 on the Pure Records label.

His debut CD was produced by Joe Rusby and himself, features acclaimed musicians Michael McGoldrick, Ian Carr, Dave Kosky, John-Joe Kelly and Aaron Jones, to name a few. The title track also features vocals from Kate Rusby.

Damien O’Kane is 32 and hails from Coleraine in Co. Derry, Northern Ireland. He moved  to England in 2001 to complete a degree course at Newcastle University. He graduated in 2005 and has been performing ever since.

Damien’s musical career has earned him credit as a creative and exciting player and singer and as an excellent teacher of folk and traditional music. His banjo playing has been widely praised and his work with Shona Kipling, accordion player extraordinaire, earned them both a Folk Award nomination in 2007 and their gigs expanded all over the world from Spain to Canada.

Having spent a year with Anglo-Irish super group Flook, his banjo playing took him to many more different venues. Now with a solo career ahead and his work with Kate Rusby, he is sure to continue his success and further his reputation as a superb singer and instrumentalist.
“A gorgeous record” ✭✭✭✭✩ - The Sunday Express

“…what hits you immediately is the richness of O’Kanes voice…” - BBC Music

“Relaxed, assured…O’Kane adds his name to the proud history of Ulster singers” - Colin Irwin (Froots)