Dublin-based artist Presh Music has released his new single, This Feeling. We asked him the BIG questions . . .
The track was written during a time when Presh was dealing with depression and social media burnout - 'doomscrolling', comparing himself to "curated versions of other people’s lives, while feeling alone in his own".
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"I actually wrote This Feeling a few years ago from a place of deep honesty," he says. "I had thousands of followers online, but no one to call when I was breaking down. This song came from that space - feeling isolated and needing to let it out somehow."
The track was produced by Victor Ezekiel, Folusho Ajala, and Presh himself.
Tell us three things about yourself . . .
I'm a Nigerian-born singer-songwriter based in Dublin, blending soulful pop and Afrobeats to create music that’s emotionally honest and uplifting. I busk regularly on Grafton Street, where I love connecting with people through live music. I’m passionate about mental health and turning real-life experiences into songs that inspire hope and resilience.
How would you describe your music?
My music is soulful, vulnerable, and rooted in storytelling. It’s shaped by my gospel background and mixes Afrobeats and emotional pop with themes like perseverance, growth, and inner healing.
Who are your musical inspirations?
I draw inspiration from Emeli Sandé, Westlife, Ella Fitzgerald, King Sunny Ade, Jacob Collier, Labrinth, and Stevie Wonder. I love artists who combine emotional honesty with strong musicality and aren’t afraid to cross genre lines.
What was the first gig you ever went to?
The first proper gig I went to was Macy Gray. I remember being blown away by her stage presence and raw vocal delivery - it made me realise that music could be both unpolished and deeply powerful.
What was the first record you ever bought?
The first CD I ever owned was Welcome Home by Ron Kenoly. I had just started learning the keyboard, and at the time, if you could play through one of those gospel albums, you were considered legit in church circles!
What’s your favourite song right now?
Right now, it's Oceans by Hillsong. I sing it often on the street and people really connect with it - the lyrics are so aligned with my life at the moment, especially in seasons of uncertainty.
Favourite lyric of all time?
From Emeli Sandé’s Read All About It: "You've got a heart as loud as lions/So why let your voice be tamed?" These lyrics have always reminded me to stay bold and authentic, especially when it feels easier to stay quiet. It’s an anthem for self-expression and owning your truth.
If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be?
That’s tough. My own song, Shooting for the Stars, motivates me daily to keep going, no matter what life throws my way. But if I had to pick something more universal, I’d go with Hallelujah by Leonard Cohen. I love its versatility - it’s a love song, a Christmas carol, a story, anything you want. I perform my own unique version of it on Grafton Street and people always relate to it, whether it’s about love, grief, faith, or joy.
Where can people find your music/more information?
You can find all my music on streaming platforms under Presh Music, including my latest song This Feeling.
For live street performances, check out my YouTube channel, where I regularly post new content: Presh Music on YouTube. You can also find me on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook at @itspreshmusic. For more details, visit my official website.
Alan Corr
If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this article, please see RTÉ’s list of helplines.
