Inspired #436 - Odhran Murphy
Fresh off a sold-out, first ever headline show at Camden Assembly and a bustling set at The Great Escape, rising Irish talent Odhran Murphy returns with his new single ‘Lover’ —a raw, emotionally charged track taken from his forthcoming debut EP Stuck In The Middle, landing this July via 10K Projects (Ice Spice, Artemas, Aminé).
Rooted in a Country-Folk sound, layered with irresistible Irish charm, ‘Lover’ showcases Odhran’s sharp pen and knack for storytelling, albeit with a plot twist, as this “Lover” is no more. Hailing from County Armagh and inspired by its natural beauty and landscape, he’s been steadily carving a unique multi-instrumental edge homing traditional Irish instruments, a devoted, growing fanbase and over 7.5 millions streams to his listenership.
He took a moment to talk to us about the inspirations behind his music.
Who are your top three musical inspirations and why?
One of my biggest inspirations is Passenger. His songwriting is incredibly raw and honest, and I’ve always admired how he can paint vivid stories with just a few lines. Another huge influence is my grandfather. He had a deep love for folk and country music, and growing up around that really shaped the kind of music I connect with. Lastly, my parents have been instrumental literally and figuratively. They not only introduced me to music but also taught me how to play instruments, and their support laid the foundation for everything I do today.
Is there a certain film that inspires you and why?
Better Man, about Robbie Williams, really struck a chord with me. It’s a powerful look at the highs and lows of fame, but what hit me hardest was his vulnerability, his struggle to stay grounded while chasing something bigger than himself. Seeing how music was both his escape and his challenge reminded me why I started writing songs in the first place: to stay connected, to express the things I can’t always say out loud, and to stay true to who I am.
What city do you find the most inspiring and why?
Honestly, I’m more of a country boy. Cities can be exciting, but I do most of my writing out in the sticks, quiet, open spaces where I can really hear myself think. Being surrounded by nature helps me slow down and focus on storytelling, which is at the heart of my music.
Who is the most inspiring person to you and why?
My parents, without question. They were there for every guitar lesson, every small-town gig, and they even paid for my first set of instruments and music software. Their belief in me before I really believed in myself has been the most powerful motivation I’ve had.
What were your inspirations when writing your new track?
My new track, Lover, came from a really personal place. I wrote it during a breakup, and it became a way for me to process everything I was feeling. It’s a vulnerable song, and writing it helped me make sense of a lot of emotional chaos. I think people will hear that honesty in it.
How would you like to inspire people?
I’d love to inspire people through my music. To remind them that it’s okay to feel deeply, to hurt, to hope, and to grow. If my songs can make someone feel less alone or help them through something tough, then that’s all I could really ask for.
