Cian Ducrot
Can’t Even Hate You
Universal Music Group
In a world where music can transcend boundaries, Cian Ducrot proves that connection isn’t just a feeling — it’s a reality. On August 27, 2024, the Irish singer-songwriter turned the city centre of Dublin into a crossroads of sound and soul, becoming the first artist to perform through one of the remarkable Portals sculptures. Streaming live from Dublin to three other locations — New York City, Vilnius in Lithuania, and Lublin in Poland — Ducrot brought a sense of togetherness that echoed across continents.
For those lucky enough to be in Dublin, the scene was a testament to the power of surprise. Known for his spontaneous performances in the most unlikely places, Cian showed up with a flash mob choir and a full backing band, transforming a typical day in the city into something magical. Despite a light drizzle, the audience was captivated, drawn in by the unmistakable pull of Ducrot’s emotional storytelling through song.
Kicking off the performance with “I’ll Be Waiting,” a fan favorite from his critically acclaimed debut album, Victory, Cian’s voice soared above the Dublin streets. The song, a Platinum-certified hit, has become an anthem of sorts, blending the kind of heartfelt lyricism and catchy melodies that have made Ducrot a household name. And if that wasn’t enough to stop passersby in their tracks, his rendition of “Something I Can’t Afford” sealed the deal, delivering the same raw vulnerability that first endeared the track to millions.
But the real showstopper was his brand-new single, “Can’t Even Hate You”. The song, which had already garnered over 5 million views on TikTok before its official release, was met with rapt attention. Ducrot’s knack for tapping into the universal experience of heartbreak was on full display, his voice resonating with the crowd and, in spirit, with viewers far beyond the physical boundaries of Dublin.
On the other side of the Portals, the response was more subdued. With only a few onlookers lingering for more than a few minutes, the lack of sound transmission diminished the impact of the live music. Still, the very concept of the Portals, interactive sculptures designed to foster a sense of global connectedness, echoed Cian’s artistic mission. His music, rooted deeply in the themes of love and loss, reaches out across distances, touching hearts in a way that words alone cannot.
Cian’s performance wasn’t just a concert; it was a moment. It was a brief, yet powerful, reminder that in a world often divided by geography and circumstance, music remains a universal language. And Ducrot, with his blend of poignant lyrics and soulful delivery, is a master translator.
Fresh off the heels of receiving the ASCAP Vanguard Award, Cian Ducrot is proving to be more than just a breakout artist — he’s a cultural connector. His songwriting has found its way into the work of other artists, including Natalie Jane, Lauren Spencer-Smith, and even SZA, for whom he co-wrote and provided backing vocals on the chart-topping hit “Saturn.” With his debut album, Victory, already a massive success, topping charts in the UK and Ireland and spawning multiple hit singles, Ducrot’s star is undeniably on the rise.
And if his Dublin Portal performance is any indication, Cian Ducrot is not just riding the wave of success, he’s creating new tides, bringing people together one song at a time. ◼
