We first discussed his new single ‘Weight’ which came out on 26 January and the meaning behind the song. He said it is about feeling like a burden and how your struggles can impact others. He commented that if any Newcastle student felt the same to find the person who they can talk to and "reflect back on", though it may take some time to find the right person it is an important thing to do.
We then talked about the tour and him making Amazon Music’s 2025 Ones to Watch list. He commented that it was confirmation that "people are listening". As a songwriter, often he can often forget the audience who are engaging for a time, however making the list and touring is a confirmation that people are listening and engaging with his music, something which he feels very privileged to experience. Furthermore, he likes to see how different crowds reactions to the set especially in Europe. "One of the most talkative gigs was at the same time the one got the loudest cheers after each song."
Furthermore we conversed about the current spotlight on Irish arts from music to acting. Moreover, how the use of social media has given the chance for Irish people to get into the music industry and have their love and depth for storytelling, to be broadcasted to a wider audience. Plus, how it would be nice to see a documentary on it in 20 years, which I am sure Darren Kiely will be apart of.
The theme of connection with music spilled into the gig itself. With Oscar Blue supporting, the audience instantly became connected with the Irish folk music. Two songs which stood out to me were ‘Lighthouse’ and ‘Backyard Mafia’. When Darren came out, the crowd could be heard form every corner. His warm personality translated on stage, where you can tell he was born to be. Key moments which stood out to me were his song ‘Weight’ which was beautiful. His engagement with the audience from the beginning, encouraging people to sing along to ‘A Long Way’, was something which carried on throughout the whole set. Plus, when he came into the crowd with his acoustic guitar and everyone made a circle and got our phone lights out. He then thanked the crowd for being so respectful at that moment of the gig.
Overall, Darren Kiely is an incredible man. From the interview to the gig it was a privilege and a honour to meet and be attend the gig. I highly recommend giving his music a listen and if you get a chance to go and see him perform, do. It will be a gig you will never forget.