Donegal-based singer-songwriter George Houston has released his new album Undesired. We asked him the BIG questions . . .
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Undesired follows his debut album Cold Toast and George has played The Regional Cultural Centre, An Grianán Theatre, Buncrana Music Festival, Dunfanaghy Festival, The Earagail Arts Festival, BlackBox Belfast, Whelan's and the Stendhal Festival.
He is also set to support the Hothouse Flowers this December.
Tell us three things about yourself . . .
I am George Houston (named after my grandfather), I am 21 years of age (a Cancer for any zodiac lovers) and I am from Inishowen, County Donegal.
How would you describe your music?
Easy way to describe it is alternative pop, what that means to me though is I can take influence from all my favourite genres like folk, rock, synth wave, pop, country (I could go on). My main focus is the lyrics, I want them to be emotive, candid, but not alienating, so when it comes to genre, I go in the direction that fits with the lyrics best.
Who are your musical inspirations?
I first became a music fan after watching Labyrinth at the age of eight. I fell deep in love with David Bowie. Since then, I've gone through phases with Kate Bush, Leonard Cohen, First Aid Kit, Lana Del Rey, Stevie Nicks, etc . . . countless artists I look to with every musical project I take on, all of which I consider masters of song-writing.
What was the first gig you ever went to?
The first gig I can remember seeing was The Waterboys in Westport, I was quite young, but I remember it rained whilst they played Fisherman's Blues.
What was the first record you ever bought?
I can't say for certain I've been buying CDs for years and years, but I would guess Best of Bowie.
What’s your favourite song right now?
Trouble by Connie Converse, but my favourite song changes every day.
Favourite lyric of all time?
First lyric that popped into my head was, "So, I'll continue to continue to pretend, my life will never end, and flowers never bend with the rainfall" - Simon and Garfunkel.
If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Maybe Don't Bring me Down by Electric Light Orchestra, never fails to make me smile.
Where can people find your music/more information?
Anywhere really, on all streaming services, Insta, Twitter, Facebook etc. Also have CDs available on Etsy. I would just suggest searching my name on your favourite platform I should be there easy enough.
