Meet Irish Rapper Craig Cooney

One of Ireland’s most established rappers, Craig Cooney, continues to innovate and push boundaries. He is known for his unique storytelling, heartfelt lyrics, and impressive freestyling skills. Craig has played headline shows in major venues across the country. He has released multiple singles and collaborations that have received press acclaim and national airplay, and founded a cypher series featuring local artists. In recent months, Craig was selected by FM104 to perform at the annual Gig alongside Gavin James , Wild Youth, Chasing Abbey, Soulé, and Wyvern Lingo.

With his single, “Realise,” out now, we took some time to hear more from Craig Cooney. Read below to learn more about Craig Cooney, the story behind his single, and what’s to come.

Hi Craig Cooney! Let’s start with how did you get your artist name?

It’s the name I was born with. I don’t play a persona while doing my music, so since the lyrics are about me, I said that I would keep the name.

What city are you from and where are you based now?

I’m originally from a little village in Kildare called Straffan. I’m now living in Dublin City Centre.

At what point in your life did you decide to pursue a career in music? How did you get started?

I always loved it, always making up lyrics in my head, but I was so shy growing up and wouldn’t have much confidence. I really focused on what others thought. Then, one night, I recorded a freestyle with my partner. When I uploaded it, it went viral, so I knew to give music a proper shot then.

Has your upbringing played a role in shaping who you are and defining your sound today? If so, how?

I think it has. The area I grew up in meant I was a little isolated. That helped my imagination and creativity. There was always music on in the house growing up too, so I do think that helped.

How would you describe your sound to readers who may not be familiar with you?

Real, Conscious, Inspiring, and Versatile. My catalogue has something for everyone.

Do you have any hobbies outside of music? What do you do to stay creative?

I used to be a big golfer. But, as I got older, it was music or that, but I don’t really do too much other than music. When I want to be creative, I’ll just write some songs or freestyle over some beats that I like.

Who are some of your main musical influences?

Dermot Kennedy, Russ, J Cole and Dappy to name a few — they would be top of my list.

Who would be a dream to collaborate with?

Dermot Kennedy — hit me up bro haha.

What are some of your future music career goals?

I can’t give them all away haha, but I really want to play a big festival.
Hit 1 million streams.
Spread positivity and spark conversation.
Go on tour.

Now onto your release, “Realise.” What inspired this song?

It’s a really funny story that I haven’t really fully explained. I wrote it originally for my partner. At the demo stage, I showed her the hook with verse 1, told her it was about her, and she didn’t like it haha. I got annoyed and said that I would write it for my daughter. That’s the real story, so you have a little exclusive there with that one. She eventually came around and said that she likes it haha.

What is “Realise” about in your own words?

It’s about a woman who is so down, has no confidence or self-love, and I’m telling her how much she is beautiful, how much she means to me and that she will always have me there to support her through the good and bad days. It’s a song that I want women to hear, and realise that they do matter and they are loved.

What is your favorite lyric in “Realise” and why?

“We both stick on a beat, we pour a glass and that’s our nightcap.”

This is exactly what me and partner used to do when I first started writing music. We would sit down together, play some beats, and write music while having a nightcap. We would talk about ideas, music, life, and just have a good life. The real simple special moments that you just enjoy with your significant other; it’s an amazing feeling. That one lyric gives me so many memories.

What message do you hope fans take away from your music and from “Realise?”

Respect women, be there for the ladies in your life, and support them. There will be days when they don’t feel good enough, feel exhausted, ugly, etc. We, as men, need to pick these important women up.

What’s one of your proudest moments of your music career so far?

I have so many. One would be hearing my song on the radio, hitting number one on the charts, and performing in front of 1,200 people while performing original songs.

What would you say are the greatest lessons you’ve learned so far?

Be patient, humble, and grateful. Life is to be enjoyed, and just enjoy the process.

What’s next for you? Are you working on any upcoming projects that we should be on the lookout for?

I’m working on so much material right now. I feel like I’m in a really good position. I have a headline show on the 28th of May in Dublin, presented by MCD. And, I’ll be releasing my debut EP this year too. Date TBC.

Where can we follow you on social media?

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/officialccmusic

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/craigcooneymusic/

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2ExWc7YvwfpBrspK7oKqaw

Website: https://craigcooneymusic.com

Before you go, let’s ask you something random. What is your favorite food?

Favourite food — anything Italian is just unreal.

Thank you for the great interview, wish you much continued success!