Biography

Martin O'Sullivan

Discography

Martin began his musical career playing guitar for a three piece band called Witch Hazel. They covered well known rock classics, hit songs from the time and also wrote original material. And so the journey begins.

Witch Hazel played their first gig together at a local high school before quickly progressing to the pub and club circuit. Martin reflects upon this time as being very exciting and says that the various experiences gained then had a positive influence on his future musical development, both as a songwriter and as a musician.

Later, he got his first taste of a professional recording studio when he was invited by a producer to record an instrumental cover version of the T.Rex classic “Get It On”. The track was included on a tribute album that featured various artists worldwide. (Released on Barracuda Records UK).

Another memorable moment was jamming on stage with Blues guitarist Eric Bell, of Thin Lizzy’s “Whiskey In The Jar” fame. It was an impromptu event made possible thanks to “A Spoonful Of Blues” guitarist Robert Dougherty who loaned Martin a guitar on the night. Robert also invited Martin to play at the Cork Jazz & Blues Festival.

After returning to college as a mature student (where he achieved various qualifications in media studies and music) Martin visited Nashville - Tennessee. The opportunity to meet other musicians and songwriters from different countries was exciting, informative and great fun.

During a seminar hosted by the Nashville Songwriters Association International Martin and his fellow songwriters had their work critiqued by various hit songwriters such as Hugh Prestwood and Jason Blume. Definitely a valuable experience.

Since moving to Hamburg - Germany Martin has enjoyed performing his acoustic set at some excellent venues and has had the pleasure of opening for international artists such as Ray Wilson (ex Genesis) and Barry Mc Cabe at The Blues Garage in Hannover. Also, Them - The Belfast Blues Band and Abi Wallenstein at The Downtown Blues Club in Hamburg, and of course he continues to gig the local music scene.

Although he usually performs solo, occasionally when respective schedules allow, Martin enjoys performing on stage with other competent musicians too. See the Gig Guide link or check local music press for info.

As a songwriter, Martin’s music continues to be showcased on various radio stations worldwide. One song, a power ballad titled "Handle With Care" has been covered and released on three different albums in Japan, (one of those albums reached a Top 30 HMV chart position), and some of his instrumental compositions have been featured on independent movie projects.

When not rehearsing for gigs he continues to write, co-write, and record new material. Check out the News link for more info.

And so the journey continues . . . . . . . . . . .