Indie pop singer songwriter Rachel Walsh has released her new song, Would You Be Happier? We asked her the BIG questions . . .
She recently performed at Workmans Club Next Big Thing Festival and was chosen as an Irish Music Month finalist by Galway Bay FM in 2022 and Midwest Radio in 2023.
Speaking about her new song, she says, '‘Would You Be Happier? is the first single release from my upcoming EP. The message of the song focuses on letting go of anything that doesn't serve you anymore.
"Ultimately, asking the question ‘would you be happier?’ It’s a question which allows room for self-growth and healing which is a priority of mine in my early 20's. I am so excited to see how people will interact and relate to this song.'
Tell us three things about yourself . . .
My name is Rachel Walsh, I was born and raised in Co. Mayo. I am a primary school teacher and now live in Co. Kildare, however my main passion in life is music. I am spending my summer in Chicago to focus on my music and gig in some Irish bars there!
How would you describe your music?
I would describe my music as being honest and relatable. It’s always nice to hear that people can take different messages from the lyrics of my songs. I use a lot of metaphors to display emotions which is quite a unique aspect of my song writing. In general, my song writing process starts with me and a piano. That is usually reflected in the final production of my songs. You will hear the keys being a main focus with lots of backing vocals on my upcoming EP.
Who are your musical inspirations?
My musical inspirations are mostly indie-pop female artists such as Maisie Peters, Holly Humberstone and Lizzie McAlpine. However, I listen to a wide range of other artists from different genres such as the 1975, Noah Kahan and Sam Fender. In terms of Irish artists, I look up to the person who taught me how to play many musical instruments. Her name is Lisa Canny. She puts a modern twist on Irish traditional music and is probably one of the best live performers I have ever seen. I am also forever inspired by my producer Dylan Connolly. He is a creative genius and a wonderful musician! I am so lucky to work with him.
What was the first gig you ever went to?
I loved watching shows like the X-Factor growing up. I went to see Leona Lewis, who had just won the X-Factor, in the 3Arena, Dublin. All I remember from this gig is that my best friend and I had made a massive sign, we were standing in the front row, and definitely annoyed everyone behind us as we were blocking their view!
What was the first record you ever bought?
Such a typical response from a girl who is from the West of Ireland, but I’m going to say it was probably a Westlife CD!
What’s your favourite song right now?
Maisie Peters - There it Goes.
Favourite lyric of all time?
‘Don’t let this darkness fool you. All lights turned off can be turned on.’ - Noah Kahan,
If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be?
That is such a difficult question to answer because I feel like my music taste changes to reflect whatever stage in life I am going through. So, to answer that generally, I think that Ed Sheeran’s new song Life Goes On could relate to a person at any stage in life. My favourite lyric from the song is ‘Easy come, hard go, then life goes on.’ We all have different challenges to face and no matter what, life will keep moving, so we need to roll with the punches until the next good thing comes our way!
Where can people find your music/more information?
My new single Would You Be Happier? is out now on all platforms. Do check it out! @rachelwalsh_music.
