Getting To Know: Stephen Conley

Stephen Conley is an artist whose music is defined by resilience, grit, and raw emotion. With a journey shaped more by life’s harshest realities than industry glitz, his self-titled debut EP is a testament to the power of perseverance. Channeling influences like Frank Turner and Oasis, Conley’s songs carry the weight of profound personal loss, particularly the heart-wrenching experience of losing his young wife to cancer.

Through all the pain, Conley’s guitar became his refuge, and his music, deeply personal and stirring, navigates life’s lowest points with unflinching honesty. This record isn’t just a collection of songs—it’s a tribute, a cathartic expression of grief, and a call to arms for anyone who’s been through the darkest of times.

1) Ian Noe - Lonesome as It Gets 

The structures and syllable use by Ian Noe has influenced my writing for the EP to a great extent, in reminding me never to overthink lyrics and structure) 

2) Kneecap - Better Way to Live 

A big influence for my instrumentation and a constant reminder that attitude is a must have in the right dosage. Inspirations to the ever rising Belfast talent and music scene and the precious Irish language in a scary time for the minorities.

3) Gaslight Anthem - Halloween 

A Halloween song for all year round, this has influenced my phrasing and my low end vocal lines for nearly ten years now. Not to copy a style but to learn from it and add it to my own bag of tricks.

4) Blink 182 - Adam’s song 

This has influenced my story telling. Since hearing ‘Adam’s song’ as a child, it has evolved with age and my understanding of how conveying a story can gain much more feeling if the chord structure and instrumentation are on opposite sides. Not all happy songs have happy tunes.

5) Todd Snider - Brenda

 I have definitely taken inspiration from all Of Todd’s work throughout the years, but this one stands out. A story of heartbreak, humour, love and remorse. A true giant among songwriters. We should be so lucky to have Mr. Snider involved in the music scene while we are. My debut album is out December this year. The EP is a great representation and a great starter course for the main entree at Stephen’s cafe.