Charles James & The Rise release single 'Greatest Prize'
Acclaimed Donegal folk duo Charles James & The Rise released their haunting new single, "Greatest Prize," on January 16th, 2025. Known for their evocative storytelling and cinematic folk sound, the husband-and-wife team continues to deliver profound narratives that resonate deeply with their audience. To coincide with the release, Charles James & The Rise performed live at Your Roots Are Showing, Ireland’s leading folk and roots music conference, on the same day.
"Greatest Prize" is an introspective exploration of the demons that haunt us, inspired by Charles James’ own struggles with recurring nightmares. Through poetic and self-aware lyrics, the song unpacks how unresolved traumas—“ghosts of the past”—linger beneath the surface and inevitably demand acknowledgment.
In Charles’ own words, “As I’ve gotten older, I’ve suffered a lot with nightmares—never the same ones, but always something. ‘Greatest Prize’ came from being strung out because I was waking so often through the night. Through the lyrics, I’ve tried to explore the idea that your demons, ghosts of the past, or whatever it happens to be, always live with you whether you realize it or not—and they’ll find a way to the surface if you don’t deal with them.”
Yet amidst the song’s darker themes, Charles brings moments of wry self-awareness and humor, admitting, “I’d be the first to tell someone to get help and the last to actually take my own advice!” This balance of vulnerability and levity is a hallmark of Charles James & The Rise’s music, and it shines through in "Greatest Prize."
Fans can experience the duo’s signature cinematic sound, blending Charles’ raw, heartfelt delivery with Catherine O’Donnell’s ethereal harmonies. With its layered storytelling and rich melodies, "Greatest Prize" is sure to leave a lasting impression.
This new single follows the success of their November release, "The Sailor & The Saint," which received critical acclaim and built momentum for their debut album, set to release later this year. Already recognized as one of Rolling Stone Magazine’s (ES) “20 Artists You Should Know for 2024,” Charles James & The Rise are solidifying their place as one of the most captivating folk acts on the scene.
About Charles James & The Rise
Charles James & The Rise is the folk project of husband-and-wife duo Charles James and Catherine O'Donnell. Drawing from the rugged beauty of Donegal and the timeless darkness of folk tradition, their music weaves cinematic depth with choral harmonies. A Ship’s Pilot by trade, Charles writes from a life shaped by adventure, loss, and the wild Irish coastline.
The duo has garnered widespread acclaim for their emotive storytelling and electrifying live performances, which have graced stages from Ireland’s Electric Picnic to Chicago’s Irish American Heritage Centre. Their deeply personal approach to songwriting has won fans across the globe and placed them firmly on the radar of folk and indie music lovers alike.
"Greatest Prize" is available now on all major streaming platforms.
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