Episode #27 - Colm O’Sullivan

Irish-born, Gibraltar-raised and Glasgow-based singer-songwriter Colm O’Sullivan joins Richard Lee for an open, heartfelt conversation recorded live at Blue Dog Glasgow. Colm reflects on finding his own voice, moving from piano bars and open mics into original songwriting, and the reality of building an independent music career one gig, one song and one opportunity at a time. He talks about his debut single Sunrise - later featured on BBC Radio Scotland - the stories behind upcoming tracks including Caroline and Little John, and why music can say what ordinary conversation cannot. The episode also explores the turning points that shaped his journey: the missed opportunity with Damien Rice that taught him not to hold back, being invited to sing with Tom Odell in front of thousands, and the extraordinary experience of busking outside Glen Hansard’s Barrowland show before being invited onstage. Colm shares what those moments taught him about courage, instinct, live performance and making your own luck. Recorded on 27 May 2026, this conversation also stands as a moving reflection on the positive influence the late Glen Hansard had on Colm’s life and artistic path. In this episode: Finding a true singing voice rather than copying influences The piano as a “therapist” and songwriting as painting pictures Sunrise, hope, and writing a song on a train in 15 minutes Glasgow’s grassroots scene, piano bars and earning a room’s attention The creative and financial realities of independent musicianship Tom Odell, Damien Rice, Glen Hansard and learning to take chances What success means beyond fame: making music that reaches and helps people Follow Colm on Instagram: @colmosullivanmusic Listen to Sunrise and visit his official merch store: colmosullivan.com/merch Recorded at Blue Dog Glasgow. With thanks to David Johnstone for making the venue available, Imposter Promotions for their continued support of grassroots music, and Robbie Tranter at Tranter Studios for editing the songs from the session.