Kneecap’s explosive Main Stage performance at Electric Picnic 2025 has been captured in a new TG4 broadcast, now streaming for fans across the globe. The highlights coincide with the release of the band’s new single Sayōnara, marking a milestone moment for both Irish music and the Irish language.

 When Belfast rap trio Kneecap stormed the Main Stage at Electric Picnic this summer, it wasn’t just another festival set—it was a cultural landmark. Now, thanks to TG4, audiences worldwide can relive the performance in Beo ón Electric Picnic, a broadcast celebrating Irish music, creativity, and language at one of the country’s biggest festivals.

At the heart of the program is Kneecap’s energetic set, featuring their new single Sayōnara, alongside H.O.O.D and The Recap. The band, who first played Electric Picnic in the smaller An Puball Gaeilge tent, reflected backstage on their remarkable rise to commanding the festival’s largest stage.

“This exclusive broadcast offers fans a chance to relive the energy, passion, and cultural impact of a performance that marked a milestone for both Irish music and the Irish language,” TG4 said in a statement.

The project was presented by Síomha Ní Ruairc and John Sharpson and produced by 84-Ochtó4 Productions. It grew out of a call for live music programming that would connect with TG4’s under-35 audience—a group increasingly central to the channel’s mission.

Executive Producer Cian Mac Cárthaigh explained the importance of location and collaboration in bringing the show to life: “Beo ón Electric Picnic was a very special programme to produce. None of this would be possible without the incredible support we got from Festival Director Melvin Benn and from Anton Cullen. The Hazelwood was the perfect setting to base the show from—it’s a special place with a wonderful energy. I'd like to thank the whole team who worked around the clock to make sure this show was made to the highest quality. It was a pleasure to be there with them.”

TG4’s commissioning editors, Dearbhaile Flynn and Donncha Mac Con Iomaire, highlighted how the broadcast reflects the vitality of younger Irish speakers:

“The Under 35s who have Irish close to their heart are a vital audience for TG4. The collaboration with Electric Picnic was a brilliant opportunity to celebrate the energy, creativity and vibrancy of that audience at one of Ireland’s most exciting cultural gatherings. It was brilliantly produced by 84 Productions who went above and beyond to deliver a programme of such high standard on a tight timeline.”

More than just Kneecap

While Kneecap’s set provided the headline moment, Beo ón Electric Picnic also showcased the breadth of Irish talent featured on the Hazelwood (An Chollchoill) and Puball Gaeilge stages. Performers included Amble, IMLÉ, Eve Belle, John Spillane, The Fógues, Byro, David Geraghty (of Bell X1), The Donnys, Dysania, Caolan Ryan, Lisa Murray, and Lost West, who delivered a moving rendition of The Cranberries’ Dreams.

The broadcast also featured interviews, acoustic sessions, and conversations with festival-goers, making it a vibrant 90-minute snapshot of the Irish music scene today.

The quality of the production was elevated by collaboration with THE COOP, John Vickers of SOUND DESIGN, and Niall Varley of Reverist. Together, the team delivered a broadcast that captured the Electric Picnic atmosphere in striking detail.

Festival Director Melvin Benn was an enthusiastic supporter of the project, particularly in spotlighting the Irish-language stages. This commitment helped ensure the visibility of artists who perform in Irish, further strengthening the connection between tradition and contemporary culture.

For Kneecap, whose lyrics mix Irish, English, and uncompromising social commentary, the TG4 broadcast comes at a pivotal moment. With the release of Sayōnara, the group is expanding its sound and reach, while continuing to champion the Irish language on international stages.

Once Kneecap learned TG4 would be on-site, they eagerly agreed to an exclusive interview and gave permission to film and broadcast their historic set. Their involvement, TG4 said, “ensured that Beo ón Electric Picnic captured one of the defining cultural moments of the festival.”

For Irish Americans eager to stay connected to the pulse of Ireland’s cultural scene, the TG4 Player offers a front-row seat. Kneecap’s Electric Picnic Highlights are now available worldwide here on the TG4 Player, alongside the full Beo ón Electric Picnic program.

As TG4 summed it up: “This was a true celebration of Electric Picnic 2025 blending live music, culture, and language into one unforgettable broadcast.”

Related: Irish Language, Music