CeeV
Co. Down artist CeeV (pronounced like 'leave') is releasing her new single 'Twenty Three'. CeeV, who's real name is Caoimhe McAleavey, is based in Newry but began her music career in Manchester studying songwriting at BIMM.
Although immersed in music in one of the most creative and music rich cities in the world, CeeV was reluctant to showcase her own songs and instead took a more backseat role while playing in several bands in some of the most recognisable venues in the city. Although she didn't perform her own songs live while in Manchester, CeeV plucked up the courage and shared her work with real live people on Soundcloud and was astonished when her music reached over 30,000 listens.
With her confidence growing, CeeV moved home to Newry and began performing her own songs, slowly building a loyal following. Now with her craft as a performer and songwriter improving, CeeV decided for an adventure away from the safety and security of home and moved to another city rich in music and creativity, Ottawa, Canada. Determined to improve her craft she performed in every bar, cafe and restaurant that she could, learning every time she stood on stage.
Now back at home CeeV is finally releasing her songs to the world. About her latest release, Twenty Three'. CeeV says... "Twenty Three is a story. But it’s also a lesson. It shows two different perspectives of leaving a relationship. One might think it’s the end of the world but the other knows there is a future out there for both of you even though it’s apart. I wrote this song as a lighthearted reflection. With influences from musical storytellers like Picture This and The Jezebels, I felt this meaningful story was best told alongside uplifting melodies and heartwarming lyrics.".
This year will see CeeV support Liam Ó Maonlaí, Lisa Hannigan and Gloria Gaynor on Irish stages.
Rose Garden - Lynn Anderson
Starting from the beginning, this is a song I used to dance around the kitchen to with my mum at 5 years old and still to this day, I love it. If you didn’t listen to the lyrics you would think this song was a rosey love song. The older I got the more I appreciated the meaningful lyrics disguised by melody and rhythm that made you want to boogie.
Tears in Heaven - Eric Clapton
Not only is this a timepiece but it’s the first song I learned on guitar. The weeks I spent practicing this song really made me love it. Also, I really appreciate a song with a true story and meaning behind it. Lyrics are my favourite part. The way Clapton executes the vocals so softly makes a great combination.
Untitled - Matt Corby
As one of my favourite artists, I would say Matt Corby played a big part in my musical journey in recent years. I find his writing to be one of a kind really, this song specifically. There’s no sugar coating and the authenticity shines through. A rhythm and blues vibe accompanied by a husky falsetto. It can’t get better.
Sink or Swim - Lewis Watson
The first song I ever heard from Lewis and I was immediately pulled in. I went to one of his gigs with a friend not expecting that this artist would be my favourite of years. The production on this song, like most of his early releases is so simple but so effective. This really encouraged me to make my music how I wanted to. Sometimes less is more!
This is the life - Amy Macdonald
As another young Irish female, I looked up to Amy MacDonald in awe. Her musical and lyrical rhythm is so catchy and effective. This is the song that comes on in an Irish pub and everyone is straight to the dance floor. I’ll forever be impressed by this song.
Last hope - Paramore
“Gotta let it happen” the encore of voices singing this during the bridge imprinted this saying in my brain and I think that’s the best thing it could have done. This is just a beautiful song that supports mental health and letting go of what you can’t control. The arrangement and production just took it to the next level. It’s so up-lifting. The whole album is really.
Lola - The Kinks
This was the song I listened to everyday at Uni. I got introduced to a whole different world of music when I moved to Manchester to study and this is one of the classics that will stay with me. How could you not sing along. The lyrics memorise themselves!
Care - Hudson Taylor
The whole ‘Singing for Strangers’ album is a staple for me. But this song had a special place for me. This is the “I wish I wrote this” song for me. The harmonies and the instrumentation all glued together with that persistent drumbeat. It honestly gets me every-time. This makes there musical pauses so interesting and always made me feel like happy screaming I thought it was like good! I do this in a lot of my songs now.
Gentle on my mind - Dean Martin
Even though he passed before I was born, Dean Martin is a journey that will always intrigue me. I’m so interested in that 50/60s decade and he stands out for me. This song especially, I find myself searching for it on Spotify most times when I can’t decide what I want to listen to. I wish I could of seen him live!
Cherry Wine - Hozier
How could I not include this Irish icon?. His guitar melodies will always amaze me. His soft, grasp vocals always gave me goosebumps. He’s a man that knows how to write a hook. His musical journey inspires a lot of independent musicians in Ireland and I’m sure afar too! I’m 100% one of them.
