With Saint Patrick’s Day last week, it was only fitting for me to discuss this artist today. My favorite and probably only Irish singer I listen to, Niall Horan. Also known as the “blonde one” and arguably the most underrated from One Direction.
Since the band split, it is easy to overlook work from the other band members because of the insane amount of success Harry Styles has had, but Niall has been busy with his solo career and making a name for himself outside of the group. With album number three on the way and two successful albums already under his belt, he has undoubtedly been active since going solo.
Most recently, Niall performed in the White House for St. Paddy’s Day in front of President Biden and other important government officials. This duo was certainly unexpected, but it was fun to see the US appreciate and provide a platform for an international artist on this Irish holiday.
Aside from that, Niall released his first album in 2017 titled “Flicker”. This album has a low-key and almost folk-like vibe. While it strays far from the upbeat fast paced pop music he made with the band, it is nice to see his personal artistic style shine through. I absolutely love to have this album on in the background while doing homework, or on a crisp fall day because it is so calming and easy to listen to.
He also released a second album with a tone that was a little closer to that of what he did with One Direction but still showcases his own sound. This album titled “Heartbreak Weather” is another one of my favorites that was kind of looked over at the time it was released. It has some of my all-time favorite songs from Niall like the adorable love tune “Black and White”. This isn’t your typical slow, endearing love song, but an exciting and passionate love song that mimics the excitement of finding your one true match.
He just released his newest song “Heaven” in anticipation of his third album “The Show” coming out in early June. If the rest of his album is anything like this tune, I simply cannot wait. While most of his songs emphasize feeling of love and adornment, he does it in such a fun way. I absolutely adore the way he portrays falling and being in love in all his songs because it seems so playful and pure. And if you watch any videos or interviews of him, he just seems like such a genuine, joyful and funny person which helps makes his music even more enjoyable.
That all being said, if you haven’t given his solo work a listen, I highly suggest you do. I have no doubt that I will have his newest album on repeat for the entirety of the summer. While I am absolutely in love and obsessed with Harry Styles, I think I lot of people tend to forget about the other boys from One Direction, and hopefully, with this new album, Niall gets the attention and appreciation he also deserves.
Nial was always the sweetest one to me during his time in One Direction. Though I haven’t listened to much of his newer work he has made a name for himself outside of the One Direction limelight. I think it’s so fascinating to see artists stray from what they would normally do in the past. It’s always interesting to see a different dimension of an artist and be able to relate to them in many ways and feel connected. Though I haven’t listened to Niall’s music in a bit you’ve convinced me to start listening more now!
I love that you highlighted Niall Horan. I think people often remember Zayn and Harry Styles and how they went off in their individual careers however, people often forget about Niall. And honestly, I cannot say that I am not guilty of this either. I often forget the Niall Horan pursued his solo career too. I have not listened to his work recently and I think after class I will definitely listen to his new songs. I did not even know that he was still coming out with music so I think that is really interesting and I cannot wait to hear it!
I remember back in the day when one direction was at its peak, Niall was my favorite. Although I haven’t listened to his new music, I think it is really impressive how much effort he has put into his recent work. I also saw how Niall performed at the white house for st. Patrick’s day which I thought was really awesome. Harry definitely has gotten all the attention recently from his acting and music, but I think Niall is super talented and needs to be talked about more. You have inspired me to listen to his music!