Person to Person: 'My parents come to most of my local shows'

Tell us about yourself;

I’m Aaron, I’m a musician based in Cork city. I just finished recording my debut album under the artist name, Shimmer Boy.

I play guitar with a bunch of artists, Culture Kid, James Keegan and Oscar Blue. I recently supported Dave Loft in Cyprus Avenue and am currently in the midst of booking my first ever tour in 2026.

Where were you born?

Hospital in Cork city, raised in Skibbereen until I was 3/4 years old.

Where do you live?

Cork city.

Family?

I’m close with my parents, they come to most of my local shows, and we always celebrate birthdays together. I have one sister, who works in Dublin and is studying to be a barrister!

Best friend?

It’s a toss between my girlfriend or my dog, Oreo. Sorry, Maggie!

Earliest childhood memory?

Going to the playground in Clonakilty with my grandfather, most weekends.

Person you most admire?

Andrew Hozier Byrne. What an incredible writer, performer, activist, and overall icon.

Person who most irritates you?

It used to be Bono, but now it’s Simon Harris.

Where was your most memorable holiday?

Santorini, Greece. Solo trip. Figured out a lot of stuff over there, and probably one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been.

Favourite TV programme?

Currently House Of Guinness. It’s so cool seeing a visual of Ireland in the 1800s, they captured it perfectly.

Favourite radio show?

Late Date on RTÉ Radio 1.

Your signature dish if cooking?

Hot Honey Chicken Stir-fry. A recipe created through the pandemic.

Favourite restaurant?

Son of a Bun, Cork. Get the wings.

Last book you read?

Brag - Peggy Klaus. Ticks most boxes for upselling oneself.

Best book you read?

The Naked Mind - Annie Grace. Strips away the social conditions of normalised alcohol abuse.

Last album/CD/download you bought?

Hánt - I Stand Beside The Light (Dylan Howe).

Favourite song?

Dave Lofts - Just A Man. He’s the best vocalist around right now.

One person you would like to see in concert?

Stevie Wonder.

Do you have a pet?

Yes, a border collie/king charles cross named Oreo.

Morning person or night owl?

Night owl. My weekly routine is always shifting with gigs and travel.

Your proudest moment?

Opening for Dave Lofts last month, and having the whole crowd sing my songs back to me.

Spendthrift or saver?

Spendthrift, unfortunately. But I’ve gotten better.

Name one thing you would improve in your area in which you live?

More music venues.

What makes you happy?

Performing my own original music.

How would you like to be remembered?

As someone who not only made great music, but also influenced people to live healthier lives.

What else are you up to at the moment?

I’m releasing my debut album in July, 2026. I’m collaborating with writers and other artists in the hope of making a second record.

• Cork singer-songwriter and guitarist Shimmer Boy (Aaron O’Sullivan) has made his debut with new single Under The Surface, a first look into the forthcoming album, In The Aftermath, We Bloom. Find him on Tiktok and Instagram @ShimmerBoy_ and listen on Spotify and all other major streaming services.