Donegal-based singer Jacqui Sharkey has released her debut single, The Light. We asked her the BIG questions . . .
Jacqui was raised in Scotland but has lived most of her life in the creative heartland of the Donegal Gaeltacht and has been performing and writing songs from a young age.
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Tell us three things about yourself?
Although I have been performing and writing music from a very young age, and it is my ultimate passion, I read a lot as a child and was always very aware of injustice in the world, and so I studied law. I was fascinated with the courtroom thing too, but on reflection, perhaps I just watched too many dramas about lawyers on TV! It isn't quite what I thought it would be, but it is good to have been able to help people out of difficult situations. I have also learned a lot about life through other people's experiences, and have a lot to write about, so it isn't as strange a combination as it might seem.
The big loves of my life are music and animals. I can't imagine being on this planet without either. At the moment, I have three cats and am getting a new puppy in the next few weeks. I also love nature and spend a lot of time in the sea and on the beaches here in Donegal, as it brings me solace. I can't imagine not living beside an ocean.
I have always loved travelling to different countries and learning new languages and about other people's culture. I speak Italian and a bit of French, and I love learning, even if it is just enough to be able to say a few words to people in their own language in their own country. I actually studied Ancient Greek for a while in school and also Latin for five years.
How would you describe your music?
There has probably always been a crossover element to my music, as I love recording music from different, but close, genres, like Folk, for example. In recent times, however, I have definitely settled into the Alt. Country/Americana genre. The songs I write tend to be all about love and life and dreams, as I am probably a bit of a romantic dreamer at heart. Imagination is a wonderful thing, and I always live through a song when I am performing, so I hope that resonates in my music.
Who are your musical inspirations?
My musical inspirations are diverse, as I have always listened to music from different genres. I have always been in awe of the music of bands like The Eagles and Fleetwood Mac, which I think have influenced me most as a songwriter and performer, as well as artists like Mary Chapin Carpenter. She is an amazing singer/songwriter and she seems to look at things the same way I do. I would love to hang out with her some time.
What are you most looking forward to post-lockdown?
There's no doubt that I miss gigging the most, and not just my own gigs. Live music is not just for the artist, but also the audience. It brings people together with a common interest and is good for the emotional and mental wellbeing of people, providing a place of sanctuary and an uplifting experience. Our country just isn't the same without live music, which is the fabric of our culture. This has to change soon.
What's your favourite song right now?
My favourite song at the moment is Rescue by Lauren Daigle. It is a few years old, but I find myself going back to listen to it again and again. I have it on a loop at the moment. It is so inspiring and full of hope. She also has a new song called Hold On To Me, which I love. She is an incredible talent.
Favourite lyric of all time?
I couldn't possibly choose a favourite lyric, and I think my head would melt trying to think of what that would be. There are so many amazing lyrics that have inspired me, and I remain in awe of the artists who have written them.
If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Sweet Sixteen by The Fureys. I never ever get tired listening to it and I am a huge admirer of all of them. They are really lovely guys too. Actually, I just spent an evening with Finbar and a few friends last night. These guys have music coming out of their pores and I just adore that song. I never ever tire listening to it. It touches my heart and soul in a way that I can't explain.
Where can people find your music/more information?
My new release The Light is available on all online music stores, as well as my previous recordings. I also have a website, and am on the usual social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram etc. under Jacqui Sharkey Music.
