A Chat with Jon Sadlier (16.07.26)
Blending intimate storytelling with energetic music, singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Jon Sadlier has a reputation for powerful performances and authentic melodies. We speak with the Irish artist about his album, The Lines We Draw, what music means to him, upcoming plans and much more.
OSR: Cliché, but what drew you to music? Why did you choose to pursue a career in music?
Sadlier: Music was always part of our home growing up. My parents and three older brothers introduced me to an incredible mix of artists. My dad loved Roy Orbison and Elvis Presley, my mum was a huge Rolling Stones fan, and my brothers filled the house with Metallica, Guns N’ Roses, Bob Dylan, The Beatles and Oasis. I absorbed all of it. Looking back, I don’t think I ever really chose music; it chose me.
OSR: What does music mean to you?
Sadlier: Everything. It’s not just what I do, it’s who I am. Alongside performing, I teach music every day, so I’m lucky enough to spend my life doing something I genuinely love. Being on stage is an incredible feeling, but seeing young musicians grow in confidence and ability is just as rewarding. I wouldn’t change it for anything.
OSR: What inspires you to create music?
Sadlier: Life, in all its highs and lows. Every song on this album comes from real experiences: losing my father in 2025, the heartbreaking loss of a close family friend a few years earlier, and also those simple moments of happiness, like sitting in the garden on a sunny day. Those are the moments that inspire me to write.
OSR: You recently released your debut album, The Lines We Draw. What can you tell us about it, from the inspiration to composition, writing and production? Is there a particular backstory or theme?
Sadlier: The overall theme of the album is life experience. Every song tells a personal story, with the exception of the title track, which was inspired by my great-uncle Anthony Sadlier. He was just 18 years old when he was shot by a sniper on the streets of Belfast while walking home after playing music with a friend from a different religion. He was mistaken for someone else, and that tragic story stayed with my family for generations.
The album was recorded at Hell Fire Studios in Dublin and produced by Scott Halliday. It’s built around piano and acoustic guitar, supported by some fantastic performances from Dan O’Neil on lead guitar, Paul Rochford on bass and Caolín Considine on drums. I’m incredibly fortunate to have worked with such talented musicians on this project.
OSR: This is your first album after releasing three singles. Was recording an album more ambitious or challenging? What were the most exciting and most challenging aspects of creating The Lines We Draw?
Sadlier: Without question, the biggest challenge was financial. Making an album is a huge investment, and with the reality of streaming today, you have to accept that the financial return is often limited. Thankfully, my wife has been incredibly supportive throughout the entire process.
The most exciting part has been bringing these songs to life with my band. My first single reached over half a million views, so hearing people sing the chorus back to me at the album launch was an unforgettable moment. The biggest ongoing challenge is maintaining momentum. Releasing an album is one thing; keeping people engaged and continuing to build on that success is another.
OSR: What do you hope people take away from your album, and what does The Lines We Draw mean to you personally?
Sadlier: I hope people find something they can relate to, whether it’s the themes of loss, the relationship between a father and son in ‘Graham and Charlie’, or simply rolling down the windows on a sunny day with ‘Right Here With You’ playing in the car. If the songs connect with people and they feel inspired to share them with others, then I’ve achieved what I set out to do.
Personally, The Lines We Draw represents pride. Holding your own album in your hands after years of writing, recording and working towards it is an incredibly special feeling, and one I’ll never take for granted.
OSR: Do you feel this album is a true representation of you as both a person and a musician?
Sadlier: Absolutely. Every song comes from a genuine place and reflects something I’ve experienced. I could sit down and tell you the story behind every track. Some of the most personal are ‘Wise Man’, written after losing my father. ‘We Can Shine’ is inspired by walking onto a festival main stage for the first time, and ‘Rare Thing’, which honours a close friend who tragically took her own life.
OSR: You mention performing numerous live shows across Ireland. What has been your most memorable performance so far?
Sadlier: There have been a few unforgettable moments. Playing the Main Stage at Kaleidoscope Festival was a huge milestone. Launching my debut album at The Sugar Club was another very special night, and performing for the Irish Rugby team for the first time is something I’ll always remember. Each of those shows marked an important moment in my journey.
OSR: As a seasoned performer, what advice would you give to musicians entering the live circuit?
Sadlier: I always tell my students one simple thing: “Be sound”. It’s an Irish expression, but it simply means be kind and treat people well. Whether it’s promoters, venue owners, sound engineers, fellow musicians or audiences, your reputation matters. Talent will open doors, but being someone people genuinely enjoy working with will keep those doors open.
OSR: Do you have a message for our readers?
Sadlier: Thank you for taking the time to read, listen and support independent music. It’s people like you who keep music honest, personal and meaningful. In a world that’s changing rapidly with AI and technology, I hope we’ll always continue to value genuine human creativity and storytelling.
OSR: What can we expect from you in the future? More releases or tours?
Sadlier: Album number two is already underway, which is exciting to say. There are also some big announcements coming later this year, and I’m hoping the second half of 2026 will be even bigger than the first. Watch this space!
Many thanks to Jon Sadlier for speaking with us. Find out more about Jon Sadlier on his official website, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and Spotify.
This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator
