Hozier, the Musician: ‘I’m Always Prepared with Multiple Back-Up Plans’

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1. What is your earliest memory?

   The earliest memory I have is from my sibling’s birthday party. I distinctly recall being captivated by a toy, crawling on the floor with my hands and knees.

2. Who has been or still is your mentor?

   I have been fortunate to have many mentors in my life. From a supportive family to close friends who exude grace, sensitivity, and self-awareness, I constantly look up to them for guidance. They keep me grounded and inspire me with their unique perspectives.

3. How would you describe your level of fitness?

   I lead a relatively inactive lifestyle, although I strive to maintain good health.

4. Tell me about a beloved animal you’ve had.

   Throughout my life, I’ve had the pleasure of sharing wonderful moments with several family dogs.

5. Which has played a bigger role in your life: risk or caution?

   I tend to be cautious and prefer having backup plans for my backup plans. However, professionally, I’ve often embarked on ventures that have frightened me. The process of creating something deeply personal and exposing it to the world can be terrifying.

6. What trait irritates you the most in others?

   I find it particularly irksome when people deceive themselves, denying their own truths.

7. What trait irritates you the most in yourself?

   I frequently struggle with time management and forgetfulness. It frustrates me when I unintentionally let things slip and fail to follow up with people. It may give the impression of disinterest or apathy, which I find frustrating.

8. What motivates you?

   I feel a strong sense of duty to create the work I believe is necessary. Despite the fear of sharing something vulnerable and honest with the world, this sense of responsibility surpasses any apprehensions or anxieties.

9. Do you believe in life after death?

   While I’m sympathetic to the notion that the beauty of life itself should be enough, I find myself leaning towards the belief that we all return to a source of some kind after this life. I often contemplate this source and embrace the idea.

10. Which is more perplexing: the existence or absence of suffering?

    Having spent a significant amount of time immersed in the belief that the world is a brutal place, I have developed a closer relationship with joy as I’ve grown older. The absence of suffering continually surprises me and uplifts my spirits.

11. Name your favorite river.

    The Lethe holds a special place in my heart. It has even appeared in a couple of my songs. I was fascinated by the concept of this river in Greek folklore. Upon drinking from it, souls forget their past lives, enabling them to embark on new journeys.

12. What would you have done differently?

    There are countless things I would do differently, but that’s an inherent part of learning and growing up. When I initially entered my career and was navigating my way through it, I often felt compelled to say yes to every opportunity, afraid that saying no would mean sacrificing everything. Now, I recognize the importance of stepping back, taking breaks, and being kinder to myself.

‘Unreal Unearth’ by Hozier will be released on August 18 by Island Records. Hozier’s tour will continue until December. Visit hozier.com for more information.

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