Following a vibrant run of releases these last few years, Cork-based singer-songwriter Sarah Hickey returned recently to unveil her spellbinding new single ‘River’.
Honing more of that rich and emotive aesthetic she has been building for herself, ‘River’ marks one of her most alluring and passionate releases to date. So we caught up with her to find out about her background and what most inspires her.
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Can you tell us a bit about your musical background and how you got started in music?
I have always loved music. I have so many lovely memories of my parents playing music on long car journeys from when I was very young. I began playing piano from the age of 7. I also kept a notebook next to my bed from a young age that I would write ideas into. I didn’t realise until recently that I have always been writing songs but it was what I naturally gravitated towards so I didn’t think about what it meant. I sang in choir in secondary school which was one of my first introductions to singing with others. I loved this and made some friends through this shared love. I started singing lesson at the age of 17 and although I was really shy I absolutely loved it and got more and more comfortable singing in front of people over the years.
Who are some of your biggest musical influences, both past and present?
I loved the music my parents listened to when I was growing up. The ones that stand out are The Beatles, Jackson 5, Thin Lizzy, Roy Orbison, Sheryl Crow, Mary Chapin Carpenter and The Eagles. I started listening to Joni Mitchell, Tom Waits and Jeff Buckley a little later on and became completely obsessed. I love a lot of types of music. More recently I’ve been listening to an artists like Andy Shauf, Mick Flannery, CMAT and Adrianne Lenker.
Are there any specific artists or bands that have had a significant impact on your music style or approach?
I think Joni Mitchell had a big impact on my writing. I also love Warren Zevon. His writing style is really interesting whether it’s story telling or personal experience.
Could you share any memorable moments or experiences that have shaped your musical journey so far?
Recording music with other musicians is really wonderful. I’m also really inspired by the songwriters and artist I am surrounded by and the music community in general. There’s a lot of support that makes creating and releasing music feel special. I have also had lovely experiences touring my music. The people you meet on the way are amazing.
How do you express your personal experiences and identity through your music?
When I write I try not to think about anyone hearing my music so I can write freely without fear of judgment getting in the way. This can be hard to do at times but it helps me write in a way that feels like Im being myself.
Have you faced any challenges or obstacles as a female musician, and if so, how have you overcome them?
I think there are challenges at times but I try to treat people as people and expect to be treated the same.
Are there any particular themes or messages that you aim to convey through your music?
I have been told I sing about the stars, sun and moon and water a lot. I definitely naturally lean into certain themes without realising but overall I aim to write what comes naturally.
My songs definitely have metaphors and images that are personal to me but still carry the overall feeling of the song.
Can you talk about your creative process and how you go about writing and producing your music?
I am inspired by many different things whether it is other music, nature, poetry, people or visuals. Often my favourite songs that I have written are the ones that came together quickly. When I’m recording I put together images and songs that are within the same feeling as what I’m trying to create. I also have been lucky to work with amazing musicians that have a brilliant understanding of all the subtle emotions I am trying to evoke. I also paint the covers of the music I release which allows me to bring a visual to the song.
How do you hope your music will resonate with your audience, especially with other aspiring female musicians?
I would love if people find some connection to my music and that is has its own specific meaning to them . I would also hope that if someone wants to create music that they will just start. I think creativity is such a special thing and it’s for everyone.
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Listen to Sarah Hickey’s new single ‘River’ below.