Hello John. What made him decide to pursue a career in music?
It has always been my identity (even if it wasn’t always obvious to others!)
Please introduce the members of your band and your musical history.
My album features Ken Mooney (Mary Wallopers), Scott Halliday (Prince), Gareth Quinn-Redmond (Glen Hansard) and Gavin Glass (Lisa Hannigan), who also produced it. I am serving.
I started writing songs as soon as I learned 3 chords on the guitar (some would argue that I still only know those 3 chords…). I was unable to perform in an independent band for many years and then went on a solo path which resulted in some radio hits here in Ireland.
What is life like for you now, juggling life as a father and musician?
Juggling disaster! The dad part is like a 20kg medicine ball, and the music is like a ping pong ball. But balance is returning.
What was the first song you heard that introduced you to music?
I have a specific memory of listening to “Strawberry Fields Forever” on loop when I was about 5 years old and sensing that something “special” was happening.
Where do you think you are in the music industry right now?
Search for El Dorado on a rickety raft in piranha-infested waters
What’s the biggest thing you’ve learned from others in the industry?
The people you think are too successful to approach are often the most receptive and supportive.
Tell me two truths and one lie about yourself.
I go to the gym every morning at 5:30am
i have autism
i have a six pack
If you could wish for one thing to help your career, what would it be?
A robot that does housework – I spent most of my time at the kitchen sink.
But to be honest, I’m very happy with where I am and have learned that I don’t want anything from the outside to save me. Especially since the robot would probably be self-aware and attack me.
Have you ever worried about people taking things the wrong way or cancel culture? Discuss….
I feel that “cancel culture” is a natural outcome of trying to correct the world’s gross inequalities, especially those between men and women. So, although we still have a long way to go, I am glad that things are finally improving. Shatter the patriarchy!
Do you agree with conspiracy theories? If not, why not?
I like reading about them, but I don’t believe anything. That’s my autistic and rational self. I heard a good story the other day…
What is your worst experience on stage?
My first gig was at an open mic, and there was a guy snoring in the corner. he was really funny. Often the worst experience is when you’re trying to kill and the audience is lukewarm.
Tell us something you think people would be surprised about.
I always wanted to be a musician, so I studied accounting… I was so worried that I wouldn’t be able to afford a house as an artist in Ireland, and it was the only solution my 15-year-old brain could come up with. It worked out in a way…in a way.
What sets you apart as a band/artist?
I only write hits! I say this half-jokingly, but what I’m trying to say is that you need some very strong filtering that literally gives you goosebumps, or you won’t even want to finish the song. That means they aren’t very productive. You may need to change that process to actually sustain your career and start producing album songs.
I heard you have new music. Can you tell me anything about it?
This is a much delayed debut album. 9 good songs. I started it in 2019 and was halfway through it before lockdown derailed it.
The album is called “A Man In Love,” and the title comes from Karl Ove Knausgaard’s book about breaking up with his partner, meeting his wife, the birth of his children, and the aftermath of his father’s death. It was inspired. They all relate to exactly what my album is about.
I even used the photo on the cover of that book (half of my face and half of his face) as my tinder profile picture, which was how I got my now wife’s attention. How meta! Inspired by easy listening, MOR music. I like my music to be approachable and sneak in some really dark lyrics when no one is expecting it.
What was the recording process like?
It’s long and drawn out! Once we had the basic track, it was just me and Gavin swapping instruments and playing around with it until we were happy with it.
What was the biggest learning curve in writing new songs? Learn how to collaborate. We plan and arrange everything before the demo begins. I wasn’t used to other people having opinions or letting me express myself, but I’ve learned that there’s often magic in that. My rule is to let the strongest opinion win. So even if I disagree with someone, if they feel it more strongly, I’ll let them win. That led to some of my favorite moments on the album.
Now that it’s complete, do you want to change anything?
I’ve learned to be detached enough to accept that what I don’t like probably doesn’t matter that much. And you can fix everything with the 25th Anniversary Remastered Edition, which no one but me cares about.
Is there anything else you would like to share with the world?
Follow an artist if you like them, and buy something from them if you can afford it.
follow instagram
RGM interview details here