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Take Me to Church: Hozier says rapid rise follows quiet years

Hozier stops by Studio Q to perform live and share the backstory of Take Me to Church.

Andrew Hozier-Byrne, better known simply as Hozier, stops by Studio Q to perform live from his self-titled debut record. He also reflects on his rapid rise after dropping out of school to quietly hone his craft. 

The 24-year-old Irish soul/gospel singer tells guest host Piya Chattopadhyay that his big break came before radio play, when his powerful single Take Me To Church was posted on Reddit. Hozier explains the song's connection to the fight for gay rights in Russia, and why he chose to hide in the shadows of his first music video. 

"The video would not be of greater worth having me in it," says the artist, whose face is similarly obscured on his debut album cover.

Watch the official video for Take Me to Church alongside two Studio Q beauties below.


 

And here's Hozier with a stunning live version, performed live in Studio Q: 


 

Unfamiliar with Hozier's larger repertoire? Don't miss From Eden.