The Celtic Social Club's Taylor Byrne - On Our Radar Q&A: "The album feels like a chance to leave a mark on the band’s history"

How did you get involved with Celtic Social Club?

It’s a bit of a strange story, really. Back in my second year of college during Covid, I was feeling pretty unmotivated musically. A friend suggested I try busking in Dublin to shake things up.

After a few months, a video of me singing ended up on a YouTube channel that features Dublin buskers. Out of nowhere, I got a message on Instagram from Celtic Social Club. Honestly, I thought it was a scam at first. But I met with the guys, we clicked, and I decided to take the leap.

How is it being the youngest in the band by some margin?

It’s been eye-opening. The others are seasoned professionals who’ve been at this a long time, and here I am in my early twenties, so we’re coming from completely different worlds. But the contrast has been brilliant.

Photo: Richard Dumas

How was the process of recording your new album?

Honestly, it’s been a dream. Playing live is amazing, but I’ve been itching to capture my time with the band in a more permanent way. This will be their fifth record, but the first one with me involved, so I really threw myself into the songwriting.

We’ve been working with Nick Davies, a producer known for his work with Genesis, and that has been both intimidating and incredible. For me, the album feels like a chance to leave a mark on the band’s history. We played a sold-out show in Whelan’s earlier this year, which felt like both of my worlds beautifully combining for one night only.

Is it true that you once got a standing ovation instigated by Daniel O’Donnell?

Yes, that did happen - it was at a New Year’s Eve session at Leo’s Tavern in Donegal. I was in attendance with a few friends and got up to do a version of ‘My Way’. Daniel O’Donnell happened to be in the room and he stood up first and started the ovation. So, Daniel, if you’re reading this and you’re interested in a collaboration - do get in touch and we can make it happen!

• The Celtic Social Club's new album, You Should Know – the first to feature Taylor Byrne – is out October 24.