Wexford musician set to release debut single

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Wexford musician Justin Murphy is preparing to take the next step in his musical journey with the release of his debut EP, Music Is My Therapy, on October 30, following the release of his first single, Darkest Days….

The 35-year-old singer-songwriter, who hails from Piercestown just outside Wexford town, has spent years developing his own original material while performing at pubs, clubs and venues across Ireland.

Now, after finding the courage to share his music with a wider audience, Murphy is looking forward to bringing his own songs to listeners through a five-track EP featuring four original songs and one cover.

Music has played a significant role in his life, particularly during difficult periods involving mental health struggles, anxiety and depression.

“Music is and has been a massive part of my life that has helped me through my toughest battles in life so far, as regards mental health, anxiety and depression, or even just a daily struggle,” Murphy explained.

His debut single, Darkest Days, is now available on streaming platforms, including Spotify, YouTube and iTunes, marking an important milestone for the local musician.

Murphy said he began writing his own material around 10 years ago but has only recently found the confidence to release it publicly.

“I started writing my own material going back 10 years or so and have finally plucked up the courage to release it to all the people that have stood by me and supported me on this journey,” he said.

Alongside his songwriting, Murphy regularly performs live at venues throughout the country, bringing his own interpretation to a wide range of musical genres.

His repertoire stretches from Johnny Cash to Ed Sheeran, with something to suit a variety of audiences.

Murphy said he enjoys putting his own twist on songs, taking requests from crowds and adapting his performances to the atmosphere of each venue.

In recent months, he has also connected with supporters through TikTok livestreams and live performances, meeting people who have encouraged him to continue pursuing his musical ambitions.

The upcoming EP represents the culmination of years of writing and a growing determination to share his work with the public.

Murphy has worked alongside fellow Wexford musician Luke Whitty on the forthcoming release, crediting him with helping to shape the sound of the record and offering valuable advice throughout the process. The collaboration has helped bring Music Is My Therapy together, with Murphy describing the experience as an important part of his development as an artist. Although he admitted to having some doubts about releasing the material after recording it, Whitty offered him some words of encouragement that helped put things into perspective.

“Everything is a no while we sit here, but out there it could be a yes, and there’s no reason for it not to be,” Murphy recalled Whitty telling him.

The advice proved particularly meaningful as Murphy considered whether to take the next step and allow his music to reach a wider audience.

The EP will feature five tracks, including four original compositions and one cover, showcasing Murphy’s songwriting alongside his influences as a performer.

For him, writing provides a way to express feelings and experiences that can sometimes be difficult to put into words.

“Some people share their emotions through different ways, but me personally, I let the pen do the talking when it hits the paper,” he said.

Murphy’s musical progress has been accompanied by a significant change in outlook over the past year. Reflecting on where he was 12 months ago compared with where he is today, he offered a candid assessment of his journey.

“If you would have asked me this time last year what my plan was, I would have told you, ‘I’m barely surviving’,” he said.

Since then, he has progressed from playing music in his bedroom to releasing original material and performing at venues across Ireland.

His story highlights the importance of perseverance, creative expression and the support of those around him when pursuing a personal ambition.

Murphy was keen to acknowledge the people who have supported him throughout the years, particularly those who have encouraged him as he prepares to release his debut EP.

“A massive thank you to everyone that has supported me over the years, and especially with this EP. Your support means the absolute world to me, and I’ll be forever grateful for it,” he said.

With Darkest Days already released and Music Is My Therapy set to follow on October 30, the Piercestown musician is looking ahead to the next chapter of his career.

The EP is available to pre-save across streaming platforms ahead of its release.

For Murphy, the project represents more than just a collection of songs. It is the result of years of writing, personal challenges and finally finding the confidence to share his music with the world.