Having begun 2024 as a relatively unknown alternative artist, Bambie Thug exploded onto the national scene when they were chosen to represent Ireland at Eurovision, with their witchy, gender-bending hyper-pop single ‘Doomsday Blue’.

The Macroom artist went on to secure Ireland’s best Eurovision result in over 20 years. However, the singer’s Eurovision run was surrounded by controversy, with the clergy lambasting Bambie Thug from the pulpit, and over 400 artists signing a letter calling on the singer to pull out in protest at Israel’s participation amid the Gaza war.

But first things first - what was it like going from an obscure artist to household name in the space of a year?

“It has been a rollercoaster,” the artist admits. “I have been working hard on my craft for such a long time, and it is amazing to finally get some recognition, especially at home in Ireland. It gives me such drive to work even harder to make this a lifelong career. But the whole moment felt great. My type of music isn’t usually on the Eurovision, and I push a lot boundaries, so it’s opened up the whole world in the most incredible way. I’m super proud.”

Were they disappointed when they realised it wasn’t going to be their night?

“What do you mean it wasn’t going to be my night?” protests Bambie. “The whole competition was my night! It doesn’t feel like a competition when you’re in it. It’s like a big festival, a celebration of music and artists from around the world. I’m so grateful for the platform it gave me.”

Representing Ireland is one thing - but representing Cork, of course, is another.

“Yes, obviously,” nods Bambie. “Corcaigh abu! Cork has Roy Keane, Kabin Crew, Cillian Murphy and Bambie Thug. We win!”

Indeed, Bambie’s current go-to Irish artists are also all Munster-born.

“Kabin Crew are amazing!” they enthuse. “They are so talented and I can’t wait to hear more from them. Also, Hazey Haze is one of my favourite rappers out there - he’s from Limerick and I think he deserves the world with his talent.”

The Kabin Crew - The Sound of the Northside at the Everyman Theatre. Copyright Trevor McGrath.

Growing up, Bambie Thug had an eclectic array of musical influences.

“I grew up around music of all genres,” they reflect. “My mum used to play classical music in the car in the morning on the way to school. We listened to Green Day and Sum41 for lunch, Paul Simon and Joni Mitchell for dinner, and Allison Krauss for dessert. I had such an array of various artists that shaped my musical taste from a young age. There was never a box that we stayed in.”

An example of Thug’s impressive range was the incredible performance they delivered at Download of The Cranberries' ’ ‘Zombie’. Is picking a song to cover easy, or do they agonise over it?

“It depends on the purpose of the cover,” the singer considers. “With ‘Zombie’, it was an easy decision, as the song stands for a lot that is still very current in today’s world, especially with everything happening in Palestine.”

Bambie Thug at Download Festival. Copyright Enda Madden.

As for the immediate future, Bambie Thug is shortly to head out on an international tour.

“I don’t want to give too much away,” Bambie says, “but as always, I like to make my shows a spectacle and an immersive experience. As this is my first headline tour, it will be the official initiation for my fans into ‘The Coven’.”

Before the tour kicks off in Brighton at the end of August, Bambie Thug will be taking their show to Electric Picnic, which the singer is very familiar with as a punter. “I actually worked there with my friend in the Body & Soul area when I was 18 or 19,” says Bambie. “It was a lot of fun. It’s exciting to be performing this year. I feel very grateful”.

Who is Bambie Thug most excited to see?

“Kylie! I can’t wait to get to see her perform!”

Finally, what makes Bambie Thug one of the most unmissable acts at this year’s bash?  “I’m an undeniable live performer and my show is super fun and inclusive,” they reply. “The songs slap and the atmosphere is always beautiful.”

• In addition to Electric Picnic, Bambie Thug plays The Academy, Dublin on October 27 and 31, and Cork City Hall on November 7.

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