Indie pop singer Taylor D has released her five-track mini-album, Fan Girl. We asked her the BIG questions . . .
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Speaking about her latest release, the Clondalkin native and winner of the Irish Youth Music Awards in 2021, the President Gaisce Award for Music in 2022, says, "Fan girls are loud, fan girls are proud and fan girls are deserving of as much limelight as they wish. It's refreshing to see an artist revel in the enjoyment of being both a fan girl and a popstar."
Tell us three things about yourself . . .
I was named after Taylor Dayne, an American singer songwriter who rose to fame in the 80s with her hit song Tell it to My Heart. I don't know her music but now I'm a huge Taylor Swift fan so the name suits me perfectly.
Music only became my passion at the age of 12. Before music I played at the local GAA club Round Towers. I was quite good at it but I never liked it and sometimes dreaded training day. That sport was highly encouraged at my primary school so I felt peer pressured into doing it to fit in.
I'm actually quite shy and introverted. At a young age I had zero confidence and spoke very little in public. Once I found music I felt like I found myself and my confidence grew.
How would you describe your Music?
I'd describe my compositions as inventive and catchy full of booming pop beats. My aim is to create songs that completely engross the listener, from captivating beats to catchy choruses and smart bridges that are based on life experiences. My music is primarily pop but prior to this EP I have been described as multi-genre, indie pop and sometimes even folk pop, appealing to a diverse audience with some of my previous releases being aired on country radio stations in countries as far as Australia.
Who are your musical influences?
I'm definitely a Swiftie. Taylor Swift is on the top of my playlists. Even though some aspects of her songs don't relate to me, she is still able to create empathy in her songs. I also love that she has different styles, she can go from a huge pop banger to a slow emotional ballad. I've huge admiration for Ed Shearan also. It amazes me how he can entertain thousands at his arena concerts by just using a loop pedal and no band backing him.
What was the first gig you ever attended?
The first arena concert I ever went to was Taylor Swift at Croke Park. My first Irish acts to see live were Wild Youth and The Academic both in the Olympia Theatre. I'm still an avid follower of both these groups and have met them both personally since starting music myself. Both have offered great words of encouragement to me as an artist and Craig from The Academic actually showed me how to home record which I'm very grateful for.
What was the first record you ever bought/downloaded?
Music was always present in our home. I grew up listening to such a diverse collection of music ranging from The Script, The Coronas, U2 and many more in our house. But the first album I ever bought myself was Taylor Swift’s 1989. And I still listen to it now and am excited for the release of Taylor's Version in October.
What is your favourite song right now?
My favourite song right now is Cian Ducrot’s Heaven. Detailing his relationship with his brother over the years, he gives you a play-by-play recount. There are some dark undertones in the song that touch on the hardships they had to overcome. Despite its emotion it still feels anthemic and a crowd pleaser. He's an amazing artist and I'd love to work with him some day.
What is your favourite lyric of all time?
'I'd rather hear how much you regret me and pray to God that you never met me than forget me' - Lewis Capaldi. I feel that everyone deserves to be remembered whether it be a failed relationship, lost friendship or family conflict. I believe things happen for a reason, you meet certain people for a reason and this adds to your life experiences. I'd like to think that I've made an impact on the people I've met and become a lasting memory. If it wasn't for these typical situations I wouldn't have written some of my songs. It reminds me of my song Strangers Again.
If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Tremonti - The First The Last. I was introduced to Tremonti about a year ago by a music friend. I particularly loved this song and stream it regularly. It’s a perfect blend of melody and aggression combined. It's a painfully emotive track about undying love and regret. The music is quite haunting and such an enjoyable listen and a song I like to cover on acoustic guitar sets.
Where can people find your music and more information about you?
On all streaming platforms under Taylor D, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, TikTok.
Alan Corr
