Welsh Language Music Day was founded by BBC Radio 1 DJ Huw Stephens in 2013. The celebratory day’s purpose is to raise awareness of all forms and genres of Welsh Language music. The genres include indie, rock, pop, punk, folk, electronica, hip hop and everything in between. The gigs, performances and events are often free to entice as many audience members as possible to explore the world of Welsh Language music.
The day is a part of the long-term vision to see a million people speaking and using Welsh by 2050.
Each year, there is a festival celebration in Cardiff but there have also been events in London, Swansea, and even New York and Budapest. When the first festival took place in 2013, artists such as Mellt, Gwenno Saunders, The Gentle Good, Chroma, Adwaith, Candelas, Meic Stevens, Los Blancos, and Alffa performed.
A number of organisations are now involved with the festival, including Sŵn, BBC Horizons, Forté Project, Clwb Ifor Bach and Big Fish Little Fish.
Popular venues such as Kings Place, London, Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff and Y Galeri, Caernarfon, as well as many more have been regular locations for the performances that take place over the duration of the festival itself, and the events that surround the festival.
Huw Stephens has previously stated, ‘Whatever you’re into, Dydd Miwsig Cymru is a day to help you discover music you’ll love. You may already be listening to Welsh language music, or maybe you haven’t listened to it for years. There’s incredible music of almost every genre, all being made in the Welsh language – there are even some great playlists to share with your friends and family who may not be listening to Welsh language music. Try something and you might just find your favourite new sound.’
Their website offers easy access to a Welsh artist Spotify playlist which includes popular artists Catatonia, Super Furry Animals and Alffa. If you’re looking for a more chilled out playlist or a playlist that’ll make you feel like you’re in a music venue, they’re also included on the website:
https://gov.wales/welsh-language-music-day (English Website)
https://llyw.cymru/dydd-miwsig-cymru (Welsh Website)
This year, the festival is being celebrated on the 5th February but as a result of the current restrictions, public events have been cancelled, therefore, it is ever more important to support the cause through digital media.
Here are some ways you can be a supporter:
