Stephen Leeson interview 20th March 2011

had the honor of chatting with Stephen Leeson, Stephen who has decided to go solo after a long career working with other bands. Best known for his unique voice, Stephen has toured all over Ireland, Europe, America & parts of Asia. He has been front man and lead singer for bands such as: Porter Black, Dublin Legacy and for 4 years with the ‘Dublin City Ramblers’.

On Meeting Stephen for the first time I was struck by several things, the first being I mustbe after making a mistake because this young man sitting across the table from me didn’t look old enough to have crammed into his musical cv half what it said. The second was how genuine and easy to chat to he was. After a few minutes I discovered I was chatting to the correct Stephen Lynch, he explained that he started touring full time with The Dublin City Ramblers at a very young age hence the youthful looking gentle man sitting across from me.

Stephen is an enchanting young man who sings with great passion, heart and soul. Born and raised in Dublin’s Southside and now almost a city of its own Tallaght, Stephen grew up in a working class family. His family has always been very musical and he was brought up listening to Irish music all his life. As a former member of the band “The Dublin City Ramblers”, whom have a lot of famous tunes to their credit, which includes the classic hit, “The Rare Auld Times” this well renowned Irish folk band were presented with a gold album from “Dolphin Records” for sales of their CD’s and continued to play in many venues throughout the world with Stephen loving every minute of it.

Stephen learnt the craft of his trade at a very young age, as his father is part of the long established Dublin Folk Band “Whiskey Still”. Stating that his father and Paddy Sweeney of the band Barelycorn, are his biggest influences, Stephen has had the privilege of performing with many great artists himself in his young life so far when he was touring with “The Dublin City Ramblers” and it clearly shows in his professionalism, mannerism and his on stage presence. The way he can captivate his audience and carry’s them away with his angelic voice that is deepened with emotion, throughout each and every song he performs.

With an ability to work the stage and engage with his spectators, his performance leaves an impressionable impact that is, not only memorable but special for everyone that has had the opportunity to experience his live gigs, which is leaving him in huge demand at both home and abroad.

Looking forward to life as a solo artist he will perform numerous well loved Irish Ballads ranging from: “The Ferryman, Carrickfergus, The Contender, Freemantle Bay, Hard Times, 19 Arches, Galway Girl” the list is endless. Stephen also plans on incorporating some of his own ballads from his new album on which he is currently working on. He will be launching his solo on Friday the 25th March in the Sirus Arts Centre Cobh. A night not to be missed.

Listen to interview here Stephen Leeson by Community Radio Youghal on Mixcloud