My Weekend: My ideal Friday night would be going to a gig or playing a gig!

Tell us about yourself: 

Hi! My name is Hannah I’m a 22-year-old independent artist from Cork who goes by HANNAHBELLA. I’m currently in my final year at the Cork School of Music which has been such a life-changing experience! I have been releasing music since 2021, releasing my first single during lockdown with my stepbrother Joe Keniry.

I’ve been songwriting all my life, and nothing brings me more peace or makes more sense to me, so, when we released CNTRL it all clicked.

Since then, I’ve been working hard on my production skills, meeting fellow artists and creatives to collaborate with, and generally finding ways to better myself as an artist and at my craft. Creating music and performing is my birthright. 

The goal?  To create melodies that reflect the complexities of human emotion. 

I embrace the roots of electronic music, punk, synth-pop, and the richness of other cultures to create music that has universal appeal. Although it can be a lonely field, nothing beats the feeling of excitement when a release does well or when performing with bandmates!

What is your ideal way to spend a Friday night?

My ideal Friday night would be going to a gig or playing a gig! I love going to local artists’ or bands’ shows — it fills me with hope and such pride! I have to say though, nothing beats a drink at O’Sho.

Lie ins or up with the lark.. which is it for you?

Honestly both, I’m definitely a night owl but who can deny a lie-in (when I don’t have a lecture).

Does work creep into your weekend at all?

Of course, it does — when I’m not doing college assignments or rehearsals, I’m writing songs and working on a beat.

If money was no object where would you head to on a weekend city break? And who would you bring with you?

Oh god! I would go to as many places as I could! I definitely would love to visit New York, and Tokyo or go back to my favorite places I’ve been, like Trogir in Croatia or Brussels in Belgium.

Closer to home, is there some place you like to head to recharge the batteries?

My granny is from Valentia Island so, when I visit some weekends, nothing beats a walk along the shore or to Glanleam Beach!

Do you like to catch up with family/friends at the weekend?

Yes. My friends and family keep me sane haha! They are my biggest supporters and encourage me.

Do you get to indulge any hobbies? Even as a spectator?

I love to watch films and, of course, make music, that is more of a personality trait than a hobby at this point.

Entertain or be entertained? If it’s the latter do you have a signature dish?

Both! I love to cook for my friends and make them feel at home. I make a banging halloumi curry.

We have so many places to eat out in Cork — where are your go to spots for coffee/ lunch/ special meal?

Izz cafe is definitely a fav of mine along with the Quay co-op, Sakura, and Raj Gaylord Indian.

Sunday night comes around too fast.. how do you normally spend it?

Generally by taking time to get ready for the week ahead, I try to ground myself and keep my anxiety at bay. I like to take Sundays slow, see who’s around for a coffee, or watch a movie with my boyfriend.

What time does your alarm clock go off on Monday morning?

Well lucky me I’ve no early classes on Mondays anymore so I’m gonna say 10am because that sounds realistic even if it’s 12pm some days — you didn’t hear that from me.

Anything else you are up to right now...

Well, I have a few gigs in Dublin lined up over the next couple of months which will be class! I love gigging in Dublin and seeing new faces.

I also just released a new single called ‘Spin’ (shameless plug I know) — it’s about the overwhelming feeling you get when you allow yourself to be fully vulnerable with someone. The song is built around catchy synths, groovy basslines, and an addictive beat switch at the end!

For more on HANNAHBELLA see:
Instagram and Twitter
hannah_bella_
TikTok @hannahbellamusic
Her songs are available to stream on all streaming platforms under the name HANNAHBELLA