Singer Jesse Sludds has been announced as the second finalist set to compete on The Late Late Show Opening Act this week.
The Wexford man is one of five performers who will perform live on the first-ever The Late Late Show Opening Act on Friday 17 April on RTÉ One and RTÉ Player.
Each act is in with a chance of winning the opportunity to open for Grammy-winner Shania Twain when she takes to the stage at Thomond Park in Limerick this July. The winner will also secure a spot on the annual Late Late Show Country Special, presented by Patrick Kielty, later this year.
Sludds was revealed as the second contestant on Today with David McCullagh on RTÉ Radio 1 this morning. Paddy Treacy was announced as the first finalist on Monday.
Speaking about the opportunity, Sludds said he was excited to perform in front of a wider audience and connect with new people.
"It's a huge platform," he said. "Of course, there are nerves; it’s a big stage, but I think that just shows how much it means to me."
He also said country music is resonating with audiences because of its honesty and storytelling.
"I think country music is having a moment because it’s real," he said. "It tells stories people have actually lived, love, heartbreak, growing up, and everything in between.
"It’s also evolving and blending with other genres, which is bringing in new audiences while keeping its roots."
Three further hopefuls will be unveiled on Today with David McCullagh on RTÉ Radio 1, between 9am and 11am, each morning this week.
The five finalists will compete on The Late Late Show Opening Act on Friday 17 April at 9.35pm on RTÉ One and RTÉ Player.
