CURTIS WALSH has just released a cover of Thin Lizzy’s Sarah, in support of the recently launched Mo Sounds campaign. Over 60 exciting independent artists from around the world have come together to release covers of their favourite song by a moustachioed musical legend – with 50% of all profits going directly to Movember.
Having amassed almost 10 million streams across all streaming services with his debut EP, Breathe, the County Laois-born songwriter looks set for his breakout year in 2020.
AC: Let’s talk about your latest single Sarah. What inspired you to cover Thin Lizzy?
CURTIS WALSH: I’ve always been a Thin Lizzy fan and it made a lot of sense since Phil Lynott – the lead singer and chief songwriter – had a really cool moustache. That was part of the requirement for the artist and song we were asked to pick for the Mo Sounds playlist in support of Movember.
The single has just been added to Spotify’s ‘Sad Songs’ Playlist. What do you think makes a perfect sad song?
I think a perfect sad song is a good balance between the melody used and the emotion heard in the vocals but most importantly it needs lyrics that describe a common emotion in a unique way
With the exception of ‘Sarah’, do you have any other go-to sad song?
One of my all-time favourite sad songs is Stronger Than I Was by Eminem.
Did growing up in County Laois influence your musical interests? Are you from a musical household?
Not necessarily. I’ve always been interested in all types of music. Ballads and old Irish songs would be fairly popular throughout the pubs in County Laois but I’ve been listening to that type of music from my Grandad since I was a kid. And my mother plays a bit of piano and my other Grandad played and taught me the guitar.
Where does the creation of a song begin for you?
Before I start writing a song, I always make sure I know what I’m writing about and I have a clear direction on where I want the song to go.
Ahead of a gig, do you have any pre-show rituals?
I do a vocal warm-up before a show but other than that, I normally just chill and talk to people until I’m called to go on stage.
How would you describe your work ethic as an artist?
Especially over the last year, my work ethic has got a lot more focused. I try to dedicate any free time I have to be doing something productive regarding my music.
Are you currently working on new material?
I’m always working on new material but I’m really excited about what’s in the pipelines for these next few tracks to come in the new year.
What is the funniest fan request you’ve ever received?
I’ve had a fan request to sign the back of someone’s neck before but I’ve had no crazy experiences yet!
How important is social media to you right now?
Before I started looking at music as a career I used to never post on social media but now I’m seeing it as a great way to communicate with fans. I’m still not one-hundred percent sure on how it works but I’m trying to post as much as I can
In the studio, do you have a fear you’d like to conquer?
I wouldn’t say I have any fears. I’m pretty open in my songs about what I’m feeling and how I’m feeling. It’s more of a breath of fresh air once I get whatever I’m writing about out and into a song
What about outside of the studio?
Writing music in a weird way is like therapy so the more I write the better my mood is, so no, I’ve no major fears outside the studio.
Why have you decided to get involved with Movember?
I decided to take part after being asked to join the Mo Sounds playlist. I thought it was a great opportunity to help out in what little way I can. And personally I know way too many people going threw mental health struggles so it feels good to support the cause.
On the Mo Sounds campaign, have you had the chance to listen to some of the other contributions?
I did and I’m so greater to be apart of something with so many amazing artists. One of my favourite covers is Use Somebody by Jamie Lawson.
What will be your New Year’s resolution for 2020?
My new year resolution is to try to start having cold showers every morning.
You can listen to the full Mo Sounds Playlist here
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