Ciara Mary-Alice Thompson

Ciara Mary-Alice Thompson, known professionally by her stage name CMAT, is an Irish singer, songwriter, and musician. Born on February 23, 1996, in Dublin, Ireland, she has achieved critical and commercial acclaim for her distinct blend of country pop, indie folk, and witty narrative songwriting. CMAT gained widespread recognition with her debut studio album, which launched a successful recording and touring career across Europe and North America.

About

CMAT was raised in Clonee and Dunboyne in County Meath, Ireland. Interested in music from an early age, she briefly attended Trinity College Dublin before dropping out to pursue songwriting full-time, including attending a dedicated songwriting program in Denmark. Her stage name is an acronym derived from her initials, reflecting a playful, theatrical persona that permeates her musical output. She blends classic country storytelling with contemporary pop sensibilities, citing influences ranging from Dolly Parton to modern indie artists.

Career

After releasing early breakout singles such as "I Wanna Be a Cowboy, Baby!", CMAT released her debut album, "If My Wife New I'd Be Dead", in February 2022. The album debuted at number one on the Irish Albums Chart and won the Choice Music Prize for Irish Album of the Year. Her follow-up album, "Crazymad, for Me", arrived in October 2023 to universal critical praise and earned a nomination for the Mercury Prize. In 2025, she released her third studio album, "Euro-Country", preceded by singles like "Running/Planning" and "Take a Sexy Picture of Me".

Online Presence and Style

CMAT has cultivated a dedicated fan base online through her vibrant and humor-filled social media persona. Her content frequently includes behind-the-scenes glimpses of touring, comedic vlogs, and direct engagement with followers. Operating under the handle @cmatbaby across platforms, including YouTube and Instagram, she shares music videos, lyric clips, and candid updates about her releases and live performances.

Personal Life

CMAT resides in Ireland and actively tours internationally. Known for her colorful fashion aesthetic and open advocacy for LGBTQ+ visibility, she identifies as bisexual and frequently writes lyrics exploring themes of identity, modern romance, and mental health. Her distinctive humor and self-aware persona continue to make her one of Ireland's most compelling contemporary pop voices.