A Conversation with Marty O'Reilly on His Musical Journey and Inspirations

Songs & Stories

In this candid interview on Backstage Sonoma, host Steve Roby engages with folk-inspired indie artist Marty O'Reilly, delving into his unique musical journey and creative processes.

O’Reilly discusses how he began his musical career after receiving a guitar as a Christmas gift during his teenage years and how early encounters with blues and folk music, particularly a serendipitous download of Blind Willie Johnson's recording, profoundly influenced his artistic direction. He reflects on the mix of influences shaping his sound, including artists like Van Morrison, Ray LaMontagne, and Nick Drake, emphasizing his dedication to exploring diverse musical genres rather than being confined to one style.

The discussion also touches upon O’Reilly's songwriting and performance ethos. He shares his perspective on songwriting as a therapeutic process before it becomes something to share with an audience. Marty employs creative strategies to combat writer's block, such as drawing inspiration from various Wikipedia articles. His live performances are described as transformative, driven by his effort to make each show an authentic and engaging experience for himself and the audience. This approach aims to break down the barriers between the performer and the listeners, fostering a shared, immersive environment.

Marty provides insights into his forthcoming projects and personal life, including balancing his music career with fatherhood. He talks about the challenges and joys of working on his first solo album during the pandemic and the decision to split it into two EPs to better align with the diverse styles of music contained within.

He also mentions the upcoming shows, including a notable free performance in Healdsburg at Little Saint and a special New Year's Eve event at the Sebastiani Theatre. Marty expresses excitement about these opportunities to connect with his audience and the detailed planning that goes into making these events memorable.