Spotlight Sounds; Episode Six with Nially

Welcome back to Spotlight Sounds, a series by Secrets Behind The Sound celebrating the vibrant world of Irish music. Dive into the blend of tradition and innovation that characterises Ireland's contemporary music scene, featuring both established and emerging artists. Explore the influences and experiences shaping Irish musicians and join us as we delve into their creative processes, stories, and journeys. Through in-depth discussions, Secrets Behind The Sound recognises the ground-breaking contributions of Irish artists to global creativity. Whether you're a returning fan or a newcomer, Spotlight Sounds invites you to explore the captivating realm of Irish music—a journey into the stories, sounds, and enigmas that make up Ireland's music scene.

On this weeks episode I was joined by Irish singer-Songwriter Nially. Hailing from Kerry, Ireland, Nially's love for music blossomed in a musically inclined family. His journey into the music world began at a young age, with early gigs in local bars and restaurants starting at just sixteen. Creating his own music was always a burning passion, and in June 2020, he released a demo of one of his tracks, receiving an overwhelmingly positive response. The following January he launched his debut single, I Want It All, which quickly garnered over 10,000 streams within its first month. Nially's music is heavily influenced by genres like Rock, Indie, and Pop, shaping the distinctive sound he offers today.

Can you start by introducing yourself and your musical background?

My name is Nially, I'm a singer/song-writer from Cahersiveen, Co. Kerry now living in London. Coming from a musical family, I've been involved in music from a young age, performing in pubs and bars around my hometown. I always had a big passion for creating music and at the start of 2021, I started self-releasing my own music and have continued to do so since.

How would you define the genre that your primarily identify with, and how do you incorporate other influences into your sound?

Indie, pop/rock would be my main genres. But I also have songs that are very stripped back and acoustic so they would be very singer/song-writer genre driven. I like tapping into both. In terms of incorporating other influences into my sound, I'm always interested to see how other artists from different genre write and create music.

How do you see the current state of the Irish music scene? Are there any emerging trends or unique characteristics that stand out to you?

I think the Irish music scene has always been incredibly strong and never short of talented musicians and no more so than now. I feel there is a whole host of music from artists of different genres coming out of Ireland at the moment and that's really cool to see.

In what ways does your music reflect your Irish identity or connect with the local culture?

When I was growing up, the first taste of music I was introduced to was Irish folk and in particular Luke Kelly, The Dubliners, The Pogues etc., through listening and watching videos of them or hearing my dad and his two brothers cover their songs at gigs. In particular, I was always intrigued and impressed with the delivery and passion of Luke Kelly's performances but also the storytelling of lyrics in Irish Folk generally and that's something I've tried to incorporate in both my writing and my performances.

Can you walk us through your creative process when writing and composing music?

It varies all the time. Sometimes, I'll be messing around on the guitar or piano and find a nice chord progression and then write lyrics over it. Other times a bunch of lyrics or even one word might pop into my head, and I'll jot it down in my notes on my phone and then create the melody and combine the two.

The most exciting scenario is when the melody and lyrics all come at once and for me that's when my best work happens, when you are not thinking too much about it and it all flows out naturally. it doesn't happen as much as I'd like it to though :(

Could you provide an overview of the current state of your genre in the Irish music scene. In your opinion, has it evolved in any way over the years?

Being Indie, Pop/Rock genre based, there is no shortage of bands or artists to look up to in Ireland from The Coronas, Picture This, The Script and Kodaline to name just a few. And more recently The Academic and Inhaler. I think guitar music is always a genre that's going to be around because it's real, raw, and authentic and people love to hear honestly and grit in music.

Diversity is an important aspect of any music scene. how do you think your music contributes to the diversity of the Irish music scene?

For me, I always try to write lyrics that are authentic and honest and, in turn, if people can relate to them in any way that's great.

As an Irish artist yourself, what advice have you got for other artists trying to navigate the industry and find their unique voice?

I think just make music that you're 100% happy with, be yourself and believe in it. If you don't believe in it, you can't expect anyone else to. Also, to perform live as much as you can and hone your craft. There's nothing better in my opinion to getting first hand reaction from an audience of a new song/idea.

What can listeners expect from you in the near future? Any upcoming releases, collabs or projects you're excited about?

Writing, recording, and performing as much as possible in the near future, but I'm going back into the studio to record new stuff soon here in London, so I'm aiming to have another single out by the end of the year and also aiming to release an EP next year.

I am going to finish off by asking you if your music was a flavour of ice

cream, what unique combination of ingredients would it be, and why?

This is a very tough question!! You’d have to ask someone that listens

to my music - ask my mom :)

From my chat with Nially, he gave us a glimpse of his extraordinary talent and unparalleled vocals that have taken the Irish music scene by storm. With a voice that resonates with raw emotion and a unique style that captivates listeners, Nially is undeniable a rising star. His boundless artistry and passion for music promise a bright future, leaving no doubt that he is destined for greatness in the world of music.

Be sure to catch Nially on his socials;

Instagram: @niially_

Spotify: Nially