Andrew John Hozier-Byrne, professionally known as Hozier (/ˈhoʊziər/ HOH-zee-ər), is an accomplished Irish musician, singer, and songwriter. His musical style draws inspiration from folk, soul, and blues genres, often weaving in religious and literary themes. Hozier gained global recognition with the release of his debut single “Take Me to Church,” achieving multi-platinum certifications across various countries.
Hozier, hailing from County Wicklow, made his debut impact in 2013 with his EP featuring the chart-topping hit “Take Me to Church.” This track resonated strongly in the rock radio scene in the U.S., securing the second position on the prestigious Billboard Hot 100 chart. Following this success, he released his eponymous first studio album in September 2014, receiving widespread critical acclaim. The album’s performance was impressive, achieving 6× platinum status in Ireland and earning multi-platinum certifications worldwide.
In September 2018, Hozier released the EP “Nina Cried Power,” with its title track soaring to the top spot on the Billboard Adult Alternative Songs chart. His second album, “Wasteland, Baby!,” debuted in March 2019, immediately claiming the number one position on both the Irish Albums Chart and the Billboard 200. The album has since achieved gold certification in the U.S.
Early Life:
Born on 17 March 1990 in Bray, County Wicklow, Andrew John Hozier-Byrne’s upbringing was shaped by his artist mother, Raine Hozier-Byrne, and his father, John Byrne, a local blues drummer who balanced his musical passion with a banking job. Hozier’s formative years were spent near Delgany, County Wicklow.
Even in his younger days, he identified as a “class clown” and struggled as an “unfocused student,” finding the school environment rather monotonous. An early experience scrubbing golf course toilets left a lasting impression of hard work. Songwriting began at the age of 15, and he honed his musical skills by self-teaching the guitar and participating in his school choir.
He attended Delgany National School, and despite his parents’ conversion to Quakerism from Catholicism, he initially attended Catholic school, St. Gerard’s, before pursuing music education at Trinity College Dublin. His pursuit of a music career led to challenges, such as a college’s refusal to grant him a deferral after missing exams to record demos for a music label.
Career:
Hozier’s journey began during his time at Trinity College, where he engaged with the Trinity Orchestra. From 2007 to 2012, he contributed to the choral ensemble Anúna, even featuring as a soloist on their 2014 release “Illuminations,” showcasing his vocal prowess on “La Chanson de Mardi Gras.” His association with Anúna allowed him to perform internationally, including captivating performances in Norway and the Netherlands. Hozier also graced the stage at the Oxegen Festival in 2009 and 2010. Notably, he opened for Alex Winston in Dublin in 2011 and contributed as a backup singer for Billy Ocean in 2012.
These experiences and influences played a pivotal role in shaping Hozier’s artistic journey, ultimately contributing to his distinctive musical identity and international success.