“The Scottish Music Awards ‘Breakthrough Artist’ Winner following in the footsteps of Paolo Nutini, Lewis Capaldi & Joesef”
‘Full of heart and vulnerability’
The Glasgow Times
‘There’s a real buzz about what’s in store for O’Dowd’
Northern Exposure
“The Glasgow singer following in the footsteps of Lewis Capaldi and Paolo Nutini”
BBC News
Fresh from playing TRNSMT & Supporting Deacon Blue,
SHAY O’DOWD releases the first single of his upcoming EP ‘FINISH WHAT YOU STARTED’
This marks the first release from his long awaited 4 track EP that he collaborated on with the amazing producer/writer Jamie Squire from iconic band
‘The 1975’.
In Shay’s words: I wrote this song with Jamie Squire who plays in and writes for one of my favourite bands, The 1975. For me, it’s a big turning point in my writing and an exciting new sound.
‘FINISH WHAT YOU STARTED’ is about wanting to honour the generation before us, whoever they may be. The first verse talks about a war hero who died in battle, and the second verse talks about a loved one who’s dying of illness. Both topics come together in the chorus to deliver the overall message of the song which is simply wanting to do right by the people before you.
After selling out the iconic Glasgow venue King Tut’s without releasing any music, a momentous debut headline show described as “a night to remember, perhaps one which will be boasted as an ‘I was there’ sort of moment for years to come” (Northern Exposure Mag), releasing two EP’s ‘Growing Pains’ + ‘Saying It Now’, getting BBC Track Of The Week with ‘BACK IN A HEARTBEAT’ and crowning 2025 with a sold out ‘St Luke’s’ show, Shay O’Dowd is rolling into 2026 on a high. The first single of the year was ‘Never Made It Out’ that was paired with a beautiful music video directed by Ciaran Passi. It depicted the life of Shay’s father’s friend Gerry (who the song was inspired by). It showcases the beautiful piece of music and its heartfelt message. It also features the young Govan born actor Connor Newall who recently played a role in 28 Years Later – The Bone Temple, and new BBC drama ‘MINT’.
Inspired by the likes of Sam Fender, Lewis Capaldi, and Noah Kahan, Shay finds writing about other people most interesting. “I am passionate about people and communication; both of which have served me well in the world of songwriting. I value authenticity and honesty as an artist, writing songs that capture the beautiful complexities of life.”
Off the back of an IRELAND Headline Tour in March, 2026 is lining up more live for Shay with festival slots at TRNSMT, Latitude, Belladrum & Boardmasters Festival and ending with a UK tour in October.
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