CMAT Joins Philomena Begley on Stage at NI Music Prize

Country music star CMAT delivered a surprise appearance alongside Philomena Begley at Belfast’s Ulster Hall during the 15th anniversary of the NI Music Prize.

The event celebrated the best of Northern Ireland’s music across genres and generations, highlighted by Begley receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award for her 64-year career. BBC broadcaster Hugo Duncan presented the honor to the country star, according to Farming Life.

Backed by the Shamrock Showband, Begley performed her iconic hit “Blanket on the Ground.” She then invited CMAT on stage, creating an unscripted moment that brought the entire audience to its feet and sparked an immediate encore.

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“We’ve had some incredible moments at the NI Music Prize over the years, but I don’t think we’ve ever experienced an atmosphere quite like that,” said Charlotte Dryden, chief executive of Oh Yeah Music Centre, as reported by The Irish News.

Beyond the surprise duets, the 15th-anniversary ceremony doled out several major category wins. Joshua Burnside claimed the PPL Album of the Year award for It’s Not Going to Be OK, following a win at the RTÉ Radio 1 Folk Awards just 24 hours prior.

CMAT Joins Philomena Begley on Stage at NI Music Prize — Photo: Farming Life

Belfast band Chalk secured a double victory on the night. The group won Single of the Year via public vote for “Pain” and took home MCD Live Act of the Year, accepting both trophies through a video message due to their ongoing tour with Fontaines D.C.

PPL Album of the Year: Joshua Burnside – It’s Not Going to Be OK
Single of the Year (Public Vote): Chalk – “Pain”
MCD Live Act of the Year: Chalk
PRS for Music NI Creator of the Year: Kaidi Tatham
BBC Introducing in NI Artist of the Year: Polar Bolero
Outstanding Contribution to Music: Neil Martin
Lifetime Achievement: Philomena Begley

Composer Neil Martin also received the Outstanding Contribution to Music Award from actor Stephen Rea, according to XS Noize. The Sound of Belfast festival continues across the city until Sunday, November 15, 2026.

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