An Exclusive Interview with Fay’d: Pioneering Irish Rap and His Journey So Far

In this exclusive interview, we sit down with the rising star in the Irish rap scene, Fay’d, to delve into his journey, influences, and dreams. From early exposure to music to unexpected breakthroughs, Fay’d opens up about his unique path in the world of music.

What inspired you to become a rapper?

My journey as a rapper has been inspired by a combination of factors that have shaped my path in music. Growing up, I was fortunate to have music all around me. My family had a strong church background, and my parents were talented singers. This exposure to music from a young age instilled a deep appreciation for the art form in me.

However, the turning point that truly sparked my desire to become a rapper occurred during my time in boarding school. I used to engage in random freestyle sessions with my friends, where we’d exchange verses and lyrics. These sessions were not only incredibly fun but also served as a creative outlet. It was during these moments that I discovered my passion for creating and performing music.

Another significant influence on my journey was my friendship with a producer. I would visit his room and watch him create beats and experiment with various sounds. Witnessing the process of music production firsthand added an extra layer of inspiration. It motivated me to take the next step and start writing my own lyrics.

So, it was a combination of my early exposure to music, the freestyle sessions with friends, and the experience of watching a producer at work that inspired me to become a rapper.

When did you get your big break?

My big break in the music industry came after I released the song “An Spailpín Fánach.” This song was a drill remix of a leaving certificate poem originally written in the Irish language. To be honest, I initially made this as a joke, not fully realizing the impact it would have. Long story.

However, “An Spailpín Fánach” quickly gained significant attention and recognition. The song received airplay on numerous national radio stations, and I started receiving messages and inquiries from various sources, including TG4. It also gained massive traction on TikTok, amassing over half a million views. On streaming platforms, it garnered over 50,000 streams. The breakthrough moment for me was when I was invited to perform on the international music series “Other Voices.”

This experience opened my eyes to the potential of my music and the niche I could fill in the Irish music industry. It was the moment I realized that I could make a meaningful impact in the music scene, using this unique blend of creativity and the Irish language.

How much time is usually dedicated to your work?

In terms of time dedicated to my work, it varies depending on the stage of the creative process. When it comes to writing a song, I can typically complete the initial draft in about 30 minutes and although I don’t believe in the idea of perfection in creativity I often spend additional time, sometimes up to two hours, refining my lyrics, honing my flow, and ensuring that my word choices align with the sound I want to create.

What kind of preparation is involved before you work on songs?

When I’m in a recording session, before I start recording, I take a moment to pray and invite God into my creative space, asking for guidance in the process. I believe that the quality of the sound I create during recording is paramount. This means that the recording session itself can take several hours, ranging from 2 to 3 hours or more, as we focus on capturing the best possible sound.

Prior to working on songs, I engage in extensive preparation. I need a theme or an idea to build the song around. Sometimes, I draw inspiration from elements in nature, such as “Waves in Éire” or “Storm,” or I channel emotions that drive my thought process. This stage is crucial in shaping the direction and message of the song.

What are your future goals?

Looking to the future, my goals as a rapper are driven by a desire to put Ireland on the global music map. I believe that the Irish music scene has incredible talent and potential, but it’s still somewhat overlooked on the international stage. I’d love to be a part of the blueprint that elevates Irish music to a higher level of recognition and appreciation.

One of my biggest dreams is to tour the world and perform on large stages. The thought of having my music create a mosh pit during a live performance is something that constantly excites me. I want to connect with audiences around the globe and share the unique sound and message that I bring to the rap scene.

Who would you like to thank for helping you get to this point?

I would like to express my gratitude to: First and foremost, I’d like to thank God for His protection over my life and the guidance He provides in my creative endeavors. My faith is a source of strength and inspiration in my music.

I’m incredibly grateful for my friends and family, who have been a constant source of support and motivation. They push me to step out of my comfort zone.

I’d like to appreciate my producer, Chris (dOnt ch0ke), whose creative contributions and collaboration have been instrumental in shaping my music. His dedication and talent have played a significant role in my artistic journey.

I also want to thank Ollys TV, Other Voices, and Bloc TG4 for providing the platforms that have allowed me to showcase my talents and reach a wider audience. These opportunities have been pivotal in helping me realize my potential and connect with my fans.

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