Wexford-based artist Awkward Z. has released his new single, Young & Grown. We asked him the BIG questions . . .
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The indie/pop song is about "trying to navigate the difficult times in your 20s". Speaking about the track, Awkward Z says, "I wrote the song at the very vulnerable time in life. It was a period where I was trying to get on top of things and just do better in general. trying to better myself included things like giving up bad habits in life and things that just didn't serve me or help me get anywhere better.
"One night scrolling through my phone I found this beat and just started writing what I was feeling and thinking how difficult your 20s can actually be and how it's still a discovery period of trying to find out who you really are in life.
"In my teens I thought I’d have it all figured out in my 20s and be fully 'adult’ but then going through it, you’re a bit older yes, but still young in contrast to how much life you have left to go through. I think the lyrics are relatable and can resonate with a lot of people."
Tell us three things about yourself . . .
I was born in South Africa but moved to Ireland when I was five.
I’ve been making music since 2012 but didn’t start releasing until 2018.
I recently made my acting debut in the Abbey Theatre in +353 Presents: The Revenger's Tragedy.
How would you describe your music?
Versatile, inspiring, and honest - I make music from the heart, no matter the genre.
Who are your musical inspirations?
Kendrick Lamar, Mk.Gee, Kid Cudi, and Gunna at the moment, but they always change.
What was the first gig you ever went to?
Joey Bada$$ in the Olympia Theatre, Dublin back in 2017.
What was the first record you ever bought?
Monkey Business by The Black Eyed Peas.
What’s your favourite song right now?
FUN by Rema.
Favourite lyric of all time?
"No such thing as a life that’s better than yours" - J. Cole.
If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Sing About Me by Kendrick Lamar.
Where can people find your music/more information?
My music is available on all streaming platforms under Awkward Z. And all my socials are @rapgamezandi.
Alan Corr
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