Pa Sheehy is a renowned guitarist and a pivotal member of the Irish band Walking on Cars. His unique style and contributions have been instrumental in shaping the band’s sound and success.
Early Life and Career
Patrick Sheehy, commonly known as Pa Sheehy, was born and raised in Dingle, a small town in County Kerry, Ireland. His interest in music developed early in life, inspired by the rich musical heritage of his hometown. He formed Walking on Cars with his friends in the early 2010s. The band included Sorcha Durham (piano), Paul Flannery (bass), Evan Hadnett (drums), and Dan Devane (guitar).
Walking on Cars: Rise to Fame
Walking on Cars gained initial recognition through their powerful live performances and distinctive blend of emotive lyrics and pop-rock sound. Their debut single “Catch Me If You Can” released in 2012, garnered significant radio play in Ireland, leading to a growing fanbase. The band’s debut album, “Everything This Way,” released in 2016, was a commercial success, reaching the top of the Irish charts and gaining international acclaim.
Musical Style and Influences
Sheehy’s musical style with Walking on Cars is characterized by his emotive vocal delivery and personal, introspective lyrics. The band’s sound, heavily influenced by the indie rock genre, also incorporated elements of pop and folk, reflecting the diverse musical landscape of Ireland. Sheehy often cited personal experiences and the scenic landscape of Kerry as major influences on his songwriting.
Solo Career
After Walking on Cars announced their split in 2020, Pa Sheehy embarked on a solo career. His solo work shows a continuation of his emotive songwriting style, with a focus on personal growth and exploration of new musical landscapes.
Legacy and Influence
As the frontman of Walking on Cars, Pa Sheehy played a significant role in the Irish music scene of the 2010s. The band’s success helped spotlight Irish bands on the international stage, inspiring a new generation of Irish artists. Sheehy’s commitment to authentic, emotionally resonant music has earned him a loyal fanbase and respect within the music community.
Discography
With Walking on Cars
- “Everything This Way” (2016);
- “Colours” (2019).
Solo Releases
- “Day Drinking” (2021);
- “Beautiful Chaos” (2021);
- “Roisin” (2021);
- “Goodbye” (2022);
- “When We Were Kids” (2022).
References
- Walking on Cars Official Website;
- Interviews and Articles Featuring Pa Sheehy;
- Music Reviews and Critiques.