Roo AOTD #101 Hozier

By Daniel Karasek | May 14, 2025

All aboard the hype train for Bonnaroo 2025! Only 29 days until we are all on the Farm again, can you believe it? It’s coming up fast and we can’t wait to be dancing with all of you at Bonnaroo! Today’s Artist of the Day is the one and only Hozier. Learn more about the artist below. Don’t forget to check out all of our artist spotlights! Thank you for reading these posts!

Artist Biography

Hozier, born Andrew Hozier-Byrne on March 17, 1990, in Bray, County Wicklow, Ireland, has steadily built a name as one of the most soulful and dynamic figures in contemporary music. With a raw yet polished blend of rock, blues, and folk influences, his sound strikes a perfect balance between poetic depth and infectious melody, capturing a wide spectrum of emotional and social themes.

Raised in a musical household, Hozier’s formative years were shaped by his experience with the choral group Anúna, which allowed him to hone his rich vocal style. This early immersion in music provided the foundation for his later success, fusing classical and modern sensibilities that would permeate his career. After attending Trinity College Dublin, Hozier embarked on his musical journey, starting out in the Irish indie scene before breaking through to international acclaim.

It was 2013’s “Take Me to Church” that marked the turning point in his career. With its impassioned plea for freedom, striking lyrics, and undeniable vocal power, the track resonated deeply with listeners worldwide, earning him not only critical praise but also widespread commercial success. The song quickly shot to number two on the Billboard Hot 100, while his self-titled debut album, released the following year, went 6× platinum in Ireland and achieved multi-platinum status globally.

Hozier’s 2019 album Wasteland, Baby! continued his momentum, debuting at number one on both the Irish Albums Chart and the Billboard 200. The album demonstrated his growth as a songwriter and performer, blending haunting melodies with socially conscious commentary, a trait that has always marked his work. His third studio album, Unreal Unearth, which dropped in 2023, debuted at number one on the Irish and UK charts, cementing his place as a major figure in modern music. The album explores themes of existential longing, love, and social change, bringing listeners along for an emotionally rich journey.

What sets Hozier apart is his ability to meld literary lyricism with musical authenticity. He crafts songs that feel both timeless and deeply reflective of the current cultural moment, from the evocative beauty of “From Eden” to the political fire of “Movement.” While his lyrics are deeply personal, they touch on universal themes that transcend his native Ireland, allowing his music to resonate across diverse audiences.

Hozier’s work draws inspiration from an array of artists, from the folk stylings of Van Morrison to the gospel and blues influences that are clearly evident in his tracks. With a voice that is at once haunting and tender, Hozier’s emotional range knows no bounds, and his live performances only amplify the visceral connection he has with his listeners.

In a time where many musicians may struggle to retain authenticity amidst mass commercial success, Hozier stands out for his steadfast commitment to both his craft and his beliefs. His music invites you into a world of soul-stirring melodies, intricate instrumentation, and lyrics that stay with you long after the last note fades.