Susan O’Neill is a rare and compelling force in contemporary music—an artist who defies convention with a voice that can both soothe and sear. Described as “equal parts balm and blowtorch,” her performances strike a unique balance between raw emotional power and delicate nuance. A fearless songwriter and magnetic stage presence, Susan brings a deep sense of authenticity to everything she does.
Over the past few years, she has dedicated herself to evolving as a solo performer, developing a sound that is both rooted and exploratory. Her music blends folk, soul, blues, and indie elements into something unmistakably her own—intimate yet expansive, classic yet fresh.
Susan’s star rose significantly following her acclaimed collaborative album In The Game with Mick Flannery. The record received widespread praise, showcasing their chemistry as storytellers and performers. Since its release, Susan has toured extensively throughout Europe and North America, captivating audiences at festivals, headline shows, and as a special guest for an eclectic mix of artists including Phoebe Bridgers, Calexico, Jamie Cullum, Valerie June, and The Teskey Brothers.
Her work has earned accolades from both media and peers. Clash called her “superb,” while The Sunday Times described her voice and artistry as simply “exquisite.” These accolades are echoed by nominations for prestigious awards such as RTÉ Radio 1’s ‘Best Female Folk Artist’ and the Choice Music Prize.
In September 2024, Susan released her much-anticipated solo album Now in a Minute. The record debuted at No. 1 on the Independent Album Charts, confirming her status as one of Ireland’s most vital musical voices. Critics were united in their praise: Hot Press hailed it as “a wondrous showcase of O’Neill’s bubbling creative prowess,” while Rolling Stone called it “an album of great intimacy… full of close-ups, like emotional macro photographs.”
The Irish Times awarded it four stars, noting the album’s “nuance, invention, and charm,” and observing that Susan “wastes no emotion—every song is lived and crafted to elicit her truth.” The Times on Sunday added: “It’s been a long time since we’ve heard a voice like this. Take note—a bright road lies ahead for O’Neill.”
As she continues to grow and evolve, Susan O’Neill stands as a bold voice in a world hungry for meaning, delivering songs that feel both timeless and timely. Whether on stage or on record, she invites listeners to lean in, feel deeply, and journey with her through soundscapes rich in emotion and honesty.
