Derry-born artist Keith Harkin is set to release what he has described as his best record yet next year, dedicating it to his son, Waylon.

After two decades of relentless touring, recording and performing across the globe, Derry singer-songwriter Keith Harkin decided 2026 would be different.

For the first time in 20 years, the former Celtic Thunder star planned to take a year off the road and focus on creating what he believes is the finest record of his career.

That break did not quite go to plan.

placeholder image — Keith Harkin with Westlife.

“This year was the first year I took off in 20 years of touring,” Keith said. “Even though it was my year off, I ended up getting booked for 40 concerts.”

Keith was called upon by Westlife member Kian Egan to support their shows in Belfast and Dublin, during their 25th anniversary tour.

“Kian gave me a holler to open up for them in Dublin, so I jumped at the chance and it was fantastic,” said Keith.

While Keith has been back and forth between America, London and Ireland his main focus this year has been his upcoming 12th studio record titled ‘This One Is For You Kid,’ which is dedicated to his son Waylon.

Keith on stage with his seven year old son, Waylon.

Keith said: “When you get older as a parent, you realise everything you do isn't for you. Everything you do is for your kids and the album is no different.”

The record explores themes of love, resilience and human connection.

“The songs are all about love and life, people and struggle and how to get over that struggle, giving your friend a hug and telling everybody it's going to be alright. That's what it's about.”

“By far, this is the best piece of work I have ever done. Everybody was in the room for the right reason. We weren't doing it for money, we were doing it for love.

“I'm not saying it's the best record in the world, I am saying it's the best record I have ever made.”

Waylon's influence extends beyond the album title. The seven-year-old has become something of a star attraction during his father's recent shows.

“Every night my little boy Waylon, who is seven, has been getting on stage and singing a song with me, and he walks up like he owns it,” Keith laughed.

“He has been watching me play music his whole life, so it's so normal to him. He's waving to the crowd saying, ‘Hey, I'm Waylon, what's up?’”

Fans will also hear Waylon's voice on the new album.

Keith also highlighted the financial pressures facing modern musicians.

“I recorded in an amazing studio in London but even with friends doing it at the best rate, you're still talking several to £10,000 sterling a day.”

Keith believes many listeners remain unaware of how little artists earn through streaming services.

“The majority of people just don't know artists don't really get paid. Streaming ruins it for a lot of artists.

“Buying a sticker at a gig or even a keyring at £5 is the equivalent of 20,000 plays on streaming, so it means the world to artists when people do that kind of thing.”

‘This One Is For You Kid’ will be available on both vinyl and CD.

You can keep up to date with Keith Harkin here: https://www.instagram.com/keithharkin/