Hozier

Hozier
Name	Hozier
Caption	Performing in 2019
Birth name	Andrew John Hozier-Byrne
Birth date	17 March 1990
Birth place	Bray, County Wicklow, Ireland
Occupation	Singer, songwriter, musician
Years active	2008–present
Genre	Soul, blues, folk, gospel, rock
Instrument	Vocals, guitar, piano
Label	Rubyworks, Island, Columbia
Associated acts	Anúna

Hozier, born Andrew John Hozier-Byrne, is an Irish singer-songwriter and musician who rose to global prominence with his debut single "Take Me to Church." His music, characterized by its soulful vocals and lyrical depth, blends elements of soul music, blues, folk music, and gospel music. He has released multiple critically acclaimed albums and is known for his socially conscious songwriting and powerful live performances.

Early life and education

He was born in Bray, County Wicklow, and grew up in the nearby village of Delgany. His father, John Byrne, was a local blues musician who performed with bands in Dublin, while his mother, Raine Hozier-Byrne, was an artist. He was exposed to a wide range of music from an early age, listening to records by artists like John Lee Hooker and Nina Simone. He attended St Gerard's School in Bray before enrolling at Trinity College Dublin to study music, though he left before completing his degree to focus on his musical career. During his time at university, he sang with the renowned Irish choral ensemble Anúna.

Musical career

His career began in earnest after he uploaded a demo of "Take Me to Church" to YouTube in 2013. The song's viral success led to a recording contract with Island Records and Columbia Records. His self-titled debut album, Hozier, was released in 2014 to widespread critical acclaim, topping charts in multiple countries including Ireland and the United States. The album featured other successful singles like "Sedated" and "Someone New." Following extensive international touring, including performances at major festivals like Glastonbury Festival and Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, he took a hiatus before releasing his second EP, Nina Cried Power, in 2018. His sophomore studio album, Wasteland, Baby!, arrived in 2019, debuting at number one on the ''Billboard'' 200. His third studio album, Unreal Unearth, was released in 2023 and was inspired by Dante's Inferno.

Artistry and influences

His musical style is a rich amalgamation of American folk, Delta blues, and soul music, often featuring themes of love, politics, and spirituality. He cites a diverse array of influences, including Muddy Waters, Tom Waits, James Carr, and Nick Cave. His work frequently incorporates literary and philosophical references, drawing from writers like James Joyce and Fyodor Dostoevsky. His vocal delivery is noted for its raw, emotive power and wide range, while his lyrics often confront social issues, such as in the protest anthem "Nina Cried Power," which pays homage to civil rights-era musicians like Nina Simone and Mavis Staples.

Discography

* Hozier (2014) * Wasteland, Baby! (2019) * Unreal Unearth (2023)

Awards and nominations

He has received numerous accolades throughout his career. "Take Me to Church" was nominated for Song of the Year at the 57th Annual Grammy Awards. The music video for the song won Best Video with a Social Message at the 2014 MTV Video Music Awards. He has won several IMRO Awards and Choice Music Prize Irish Song of the Year awards. His album Wasteland, Baby! was nominated for the Mercury Prize in 2019.

Personal life

He maintains a relatively private life, residing primarily in County Wicklow. He is an advocate for various social and political causes, including LGBT rights and environmental protection. He has supported organizations like Amnesty International and has been vocal on issues such as the Repeal of the Eighth Amendment of the Constitution of Ireland. In his spare time, he is an avid reader and enjoys hiking in the Irish countryside.

Category:Irish singer-songwriters Category:Irish male singers Category:1990 births Category:Living people Category:Musicians from County Wicklow