Brian Deady

Biography

Brian Deady is an Irish soul and R&B singer-songwriter, born in Dublin and raised in Skibbereen, West Cork, as one of ten children. Growing up in relative poverty and spending part of his adolescence in state care, Deady found solace and expression through music, beginning to write lyrics and poetry as a teenager. His early experiences deeply influenced his confessional songwriting style, which is marked by emotional honesty and a powerful, soulful voice.

Deady emerged on the Irish music scene in the mid-2000s, initially gaining recognition through local gigs and festival appearances, including the Cork Jazz Festival and the It Takes A Village event. His breakthrough came with the independently released album 'Non-Fiction' in 2015, which drew critical acclaim for its raw storytelling and authentic soul sound. The album's success led to a re-release by Universal/Decca Records and a growing international profile, with radio play in the US and support slots for artists like Nile Rodgers. Deady continued to evolve artistically, recording his later album 'Yellow Creek' in Memphis, where he explored the roots of soul and gospel, further refining his blend of vintage and contemporary R&B.

Now based in Andalusia, Spain, Deady remains an influential figure in Irish soul, known for his emotionally charged performances and commitment to artistic authenticity. Despite setbacks, such as being dropped by his label, he has built a loyal fanbase and is recognized for his resilience and creative independence.

Fun Facts

• Brian Deady recorded his album 'Yellow Creek' in Memphis, Tennessee, completing it in just one week as a creative challenge.
• He grew up as one of ten siblings and spent part of his youth in state care, experiences that deeply inform his songwriting.
• Deady relocated to a cave house in Andalusia, Spain, after falling in love with the region while shooting a music video.
• His song 'Clap Both My Hands' became a radio hit and helped secure a major label deal, though he was later dropped when the album underperformed commercially.

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Nile Rodgers - Supporter and fan; Deady has supported Rodgers at Irish shows and cites him as a champion of his music. (Live performances, especially during the promotion of 'Non-Fiction') [2015–2016]

Key Collaborators

• Deady's touring band - Recorded 'Yellow Creek' together in Memphis, collaborating on arrangements and performances. (Yellow Creek (album)) [2019]

Artists Influenced

• No specific artists documented - Deady's influence is noted in the Irish soul and R&B scene, but no direct proteges or students are cited in available sources.

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. Get on My Knees (Non-Fiction)
2. Get on My Knees (Get on My Knees)
3. Clap Both My Hands (Non-Fiction)
4. Eloise (Lean Into the Wave) (Eloise (Lean Into the Wave))
5. The 909 (The 909)
6. 9 Cents & 2 Dollars (Black Diamond)
7. Rodeo (Rodeo)
8. Dancing in the Moonlight (Voices (The Acapella Vaults))
9. September (Non-Fiction)
10. Down in the Disco (Down in the Disco)

External Links

• Spotify