Born and raised in Galway City, Donohue grew up bound for music.
“As a baby I used to press my ear against my parent's stereo, just to feel the vibrations and rhythms surge through my body," he told us this week, days ahead of his hometown gig in the Roisin Dubh this Sunday night. (Sept 4 )
A lover of RnB, and inspired by the independence of artists such as Prince, Stevie Wonder and Sly Stone, Donohue spent his teenage years mastering all the instruments he needed to bring his music to life.
After building a studio in his attic, he then learned to fully record and produce his own music. With years now under his belt, of writing and recording prolifically, he has an extensive catalogue of music which is soon to be released.
At 18, Donohue moved to the UK to pursue his music career full time. While constantly honing his craft, Donohue has created a highly energetic and intense live set featuring a virtuosic backing band and stage-like theatrics.
This set has propelled his career and has been very well received. In less than a year he has gone from living in Manchester with no connections, to playing across the UK in venues such as The Bedford (London ), The Blues Kitchen(Manchester ), the Old Queen’s Head (London ), as well as securing his first festival slots at Lakefest (25000 attendees ).
Donohue released his first song, “Solo” to all streaming platforms in April 2022. A stripped back funk song, he looked to express the roots of his artistry with this energetic performance.
The song was lauded by a number of local magazines (RGM and YMX ) and industry professionals from abroad (Eric Alper, Radio Host at Sirius XM ).
RGM said "Only 18 years old and with his eyes firmly set on the prize of conquering the world of pop. That’s not the only genre that Donohue features in his songwriting – you can hear fragrances of funk and RnB. Written, recorded, and produced all by himself, this is an impressive first impression.
"Vocally, the track sits somewhere between rapping and singing. Moving from in-your-face verses and memorable choruses that will sit in your head from this moment out, ‘Solo’ is an effortless offering that comes across as an instant classic."
anrfactory said "Solo‘ from Galway, Ireland-born, Manchester, UK-based indie RnB solo artist Donohue is a catchy track that is loaded with quality and freshly-toned vocals that send you into a new stratosphere of delight.
"His voice sounds ravenous for more, as we are placed into a world packed with potential, from a young musician who seems absolutely fearless.
"With live music back globally and venues opening their doors again, he seems to have chosen the perfect time to launch himself into our consciousness."
With a number of more gigs on the way and a new release imminent, Donohue is very excited for what is to come.
See for yourself at Roisin Dubh this weekend.
