Dublin singer-songwriter Paddy Hanna has released his new single, New York Sidewalk. We asked him the BIG questions . . .
Hanna began his career in music as the frontman of Grand Pocket Orchestra before switching his attention to solo material with the release of his debut album Leafy Stiletto in 2014.
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Over the years, he has supported Joan as a Policewoman, Billy Ocean, and Cate Le Bon and in 2019, Paddy supported one of his musical heroes, Burt Bacharach, during the Irish leg of his tour.
Tell us three things about yourself?
I have an unyielding love for horror films. I enjoy wandering graveyards. I have spent an unhealthy amount of time looking for ghosts.
How would you describe your music?
Sunshine Gothic.
Who are your musical inspirations?
Patti Smith, Tom Waits, Riz Ortalani and Burt Bacharach would be the artists who helped me find my musical voice. Creatively, I'm always inspired by the outsider, the oddball, those who push creative boundaries through simply not giving a sh**.
What was the first gig you ever went to and the first record you ever bought/downloaded?
I remember seeing a show where a bunch of puppets conducted the RTÉ Symphony Orchestra; I’m quite sure that happened. The first record I bought was The Best of Frankie Goes to Hollywood.
What’s your favourite song right now?
There's a track by Halli called Shit I Almost Said I Love You. I discovered it when I had just gotten back from the hospital, where my wife had given birth the previous night. It was the first track I heard as I sat back with a tall whiskey, wearily contemplating fatherhood.
Favourite lyric of all time?
"Men cluster to me like moths around a flame and if their wings burn, I know I’m not to blame". Marlene Dietrich - Falling in Love Again. I love the later performances Dietrich gave of this song. You sense in her voice that they may not be very truthful. I think that's a wonderful gift that some performers have - the ability to make you question their truthfulness.
If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life what would it be?
The Old Gold Shoe by Lambchop. I’d pop it on and slow dance with my wife for eternity.
Where can people find your music/more information?
Head to my label's website Strangebrew for downloads, records, and such. I'm also on all good streaming services. If you wish to see me in person, check your nearest graveyard.
