Troubadour swapping south Armagh for Nashville and LA as career looks set to blast off
Odhran Murphy has linked up with Los Angeles-based 10K Projects, which includes global artists Ice Spice and Artemas on its roster.
The 25-year-old told the Belfast Telegraph: “It’s a dream come true.”
Describing his sound as “indie-folk-pop”, the artist explained the label reached out after his latest single went viral thanks to a dance trend sparked by another user on TikTok.
He said: “It all came about when I was promoting Close To You.
“A lot of people fell in love with the song, and someone created a catchy dance, which snowballed into a trend on the platform.
“After that record labels began reaching out. I didn’t have a clue about contracts or the technical side of things, so I was lucky to have my team, Jorden and Sam, to help with that side of things.
“My goal for 2024 was to sign with a label, and just before Christmas that goal became a reality.”
He grew up in a strong musical household, so his loved ones are delighted with his progress.
He added: “My family understand what this opportunity means, they are buzzing about it, and their support means the world.
“That’s where it all started for me—doing pub gigs with my sister Sionan, who performs as RUE, and the influence of my parents, who both sing and play instruments.
“Signing the contract at home was a standout moment for me. I went to my parents’ house and jumped on a Zoom call with the rest of the family, and we signed it together.
“It was nice to have everyone there for that moment and we celebrated with a few drinks.
“I was itching to tell my friends and the people who have supported me along the way, and I announced it this week. The reaction has been incredible.”
Odhran’s roots in Creggan near Crossmaglen continue to inspire his creativity. The area is renowned for its rugged natural beauty.
Odhran Murphy
He said: “Since 10K Projects is based in the US, I’ll be heading to LA and Nashville in the next few months.
“If younger Odhran knew this, he’d be thinking: ‘Wow’.
“I started releasing music in 2019, doing everything myself from my bedroom.
“There’s something so unique and special about south Armagh. It’s full of amazing songwriters, storytellers and creative people.
“The great thing about this area is that there are so many scenic spots, such as Slieve Gullion and Creggan Lawns — Creggan Lawns has always felt like a haven to me.
“I am always down there with my guitar, and it’s a massive source of inspiration. It’s like a sanctuary to clear my head and write.
“People walk their dogs around there and they are probably thinking: ‘What is that eejit doing?’.
“Recording videos locally used to make me feel awkward because everyone knows everyone around here.
“I’d be thinking: ‘What are they going to say about me?’
“But I’ve learned not to care. This is my career and these things need to be done, and people have been so supportive too.”
“My advice to anyone starting out would be that it will be tough, but be persistent and don’t give up, don’t listen to anyone who says you can’t do something—just go for it and things will work out.”
He added: “There is so much happening in 2025. I have tons of songs ready to release, and while I can work from home too, I will be recording more in London, LA and Nashville.
“It’s going to be an exciting year. I also have some exciting shows in the pipeline that I can’t talk about just yet. Keep your eyes peeled.”
