From a young age, DAY_S mastered the skill of songwriting, as well as playing piano and guitar.

The Dublin solo artist has been busy establishing himself as an intriguing rising talent on the Irish scene, racking up over 1 million streams with singles including ‘Last Night’, ‘Elbows’ and ‘Fever’.

His debut EP ‘Born to Be Alone’ was released in October and represents his transition to a grungier sound.

We caught up with the Dubliner to learn more. 

What’s the music that you listened to growing up, that you still listen to today?
I grew up listening to a lot of Nirvana and a lot of hip-hop. I still daily listen to The Fugees, Lauryn Hill is a huge inspiration to me. I loved and still do love Aerosmith, I tried matching Steven Tyler’s voice growing up, so I always go back to that. Then other artists like Jeff Buckley and The Cranberries are always in heavy rotation.

2. In three words, describe the minute before you walk on stage.
Nervous, Excited, Chaos.

3. How do you wind down after a gig?
I usually run back to the green room and take a few minutes to myself, I like to have a bit of 'me' time to decompress so I’ll sit there, have a cigarette and get back to reality.

4. What’s the one song (by another artist) you wish you’d written or recorded first?
That’s a great question. There are loads, honestly. At the moment it’s probably ‘Moon Song’ by Phoebe Bridgers, that song is incredible. The beautiful dark guitar over Phoebe's voice is so magical.

5. What is your pet peeve?
Not exactly a pet peeve but I absolutely hate cotton wool - like, HATE it.

6. Name one record, one book and one film that everyone should hear / read / see.
Record: ‘Grace’ - Jeff Buckley
Book: ‘When Breath Becomes Air'
Film: ‘The Road’

7. Pick the director and lead actor(s) for a biopic about your life.
Oh, I like this one. Gotta think about this one. Let’s go with Taika Waititi for the director, I think he would make it beautiful while also keeping it fun. For the actor, I’m trying to think of someone who looks like me but I have no idea… so let’s say, Cole Sprouse.

8. You’re ordering take-away, what do you get?
I’m a big fan of Chinese takeaways. I usually get crispy wontons, spring rolls, and a spice bag - no messing around, like.

9. Describe your perfect day off.
Definitely going to the cinema, I love going to the cinema. I tend to only go by myself so it’s the best way to get some ‘me’ time. Large popcorn, large drink, melt into the seat and just enjoy yourself. Then of course spend lots of time with my dog Toby - he’s literally a child who craves attention 24/7.

10. Tell us, in one sentence, why we should come to your next gig (whenever it may be.)
If you like big tunes and lots of jumping around, then come join the chaos.

BONUS QUESTION: Recommend a podcast and tell us why we should subscribe to it.
‘Bad Friends’ by Bobby Lee and Andrew Santino, is some of the funniest stuff you will ever hear.

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‘Born to Be Alone’ is out now.