Irish-German alternative folk singer songwriter Sinead Ann has released her debut single, Lemonzest. We asked her the BIG questions . . .
Sinead Ann was awarded the Irish Youth Music Awards BIMM Bursary in 2017 and went on to study a BA in Commercial Modern Music in BIMM Institute Dublin, graduating in 2021.
She performed in Irish language duo Muirsiné alongside fellow musician Muireann Ní Bhaoill and they won the GRETB award of Excellence and Achievement in 2016.
She also directed the Youth Chorus of Paper Boat, an opera commissioned by Galway 2020 collaborating with the Irish National Opera and MFG.
Tell us three things about yourself . . .
I grew up in Athenry in County Galway! Apparently Athenry was the wettest place in Ireland in 2019 (that's why the fields lie so low). I was in the Aer Lingus magazine, Cara! My biggest flex in life. I adore vintage and sustainable fashion. Currently the 60s and 70s have me in a headlock - most of my wardrobe is vintage/preloved.
How would you describe your music?
Music for people with a lot of emotions and dunno what to do them haha. Genre wise, maybe alternative folk?
Who are your musical inspirations?
I feel inspired by so many artists. My grandad was a jazz musician - I felt very connected to music from a young age. The artists that I feel influenced my music most are First Aid Kit, Lisa Hannigan and The Cranberries. I feel very inspired by artists such as Sonny Casey, Reylta and Bríd Kenny. Big love to my Galway girls.
What was the first gig you ever went to?
The first "gig" gig I went to, that I remember, was Mike Oldfield’s Tubular Bells for 2. It was incredible. My aunt and uncle took my cousin and me. I vividly remember an elderly lady blocking her ears and scurrying down the middle aisle looking for the nearest exit. Definitely wasn’t the gig she was expecting.
What was the first record you ever bought?
I’m pretty sure it was Fearless by Taylor Swift. I was so thrilled with myself. I listened to that album religiously on my portable CD player thingy. I was 11 or 12 at the time. I’d fall asleep listening to it and one earphone would always fall out and I’m convinced that album taught me how to harmonise.
What’s your favourite song right now?
My favourite song changes everyday but at the moment my anthem is Dream Girl Evil by Florence + The Machine.
Favourite lyric of all time?
It was tough to choose but the song Between The Bars by Elliot Smith has definitely some of my favourite lyrics. "Drink up baby, Look at the stars, I’ll kiss you again, between the bars".
If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be?
It's so cruel to have to choose only one! LP - Lost On You (live). *Emphasis on the live version. The vocals are otherworldly.
Where can people find your music/more information?
I am most active on my Instagram! @sineadmusic. You can find everything here.
