'If it weren't for rap, I wouldn't be here today': Limerick artist Dale Maguire reflects on hardships with new single

AT THE age of sixteen, Limerick artist Dale Maguire was going through a tough time. Rap helped him “take control” of his life and indulge in what he loves the most - stories. 

“I read a lot when I was a kid, that’s what attracted me to rap when I was 16, the stories. At that age, I wasn't really in a good place, so rap really helped me take control of my life. And to this day, it helps me process things going on and understand my feelings,” says Dale.

The 23-year-old Caherconlish native uses music as an outlet, a form of therapy. 

“It's my way of understanding the world and myself. I don't know much. But I know that if it weren't for rap, I wouldn't be here today,” he says.

This September, Dale will be releasing his new album, Drip Drop Splash! on September 26. But first, he will be sharing a new single, Pipe Down, featuring the rapper Curtisy.

“Pipe Down is the last single before my album. The song and the album at large ask the question of ‘Should I emigrate?’. I talk about a few things on a song like my renting situation last year, falling out with my best friend, people I know leaving the country. I'm sort of wondering what's left for me here,” he explains.

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Produced by Danny Lanham, Pipe Down reflects on hardships - but amidst heavy themes, Dale’s quick wit shines through. 

Speaking of his collaboration with Curtisy, Dale recalls: “I was so excited when Curtisy agreed to be on Pipe Down. He’s one of my favourite rappers in Ireland right now. I had no hope when I reached out, but here we are, and I'm so happy I did reach out now.”

Dave is described as a conceptual rap artist, one who pushes boundaries and weaves complex and societal narratives into his music.  

“I love putting narrative in my albums, having a cohesive story throughout a project and tying things together. Recently I've been experimenting with it more and more, using metaphors and allegories to tell stories in new, interesting ways,” he says.

Dale will be releasing his album, Drip Drop Splash! late September. 

“My favourite part of the album making process is the planning. I'm really proud of the concept that's weaved through my next album."