Hailing from Ayr, Ontario, Canada, H.Pe is a singer-songwriter who’s brand-new offering is an alternative, electric folksy track titled ‘Dublin’ has a melancholic and hopeful vibe to it, released on February 15, 2023.
Taken from his third studio album Lines, ‘Dublin’ was created from the melody of a few chords on a classical acoustic guitar, and then the song slowly started to form. His complimentary vocals and intriguing guitar work truly showcase his musical abilities. Born in Dublin, Ireland, H.Pe connects to the city through memory; the thought of walking through St. Stephen’s Green on a warm, summer’s day with the people, the memory, and the fantasy of what could have been. “Dublin is about the line between memory and fantasy.” – H.Pe comments on the track.
What first got you into music?
I would say Michael Jackson got me interested in music. Thriller was such a massive album. It had so many great songs and so many great melodies. I would hum those songs all day long. Slowly, I started to write my own little pieces. Similar but different. That was the most fun for me.
When I was a teenager, I found Nirvana. They made me want to play guitar. And start a band. It was an introduction to punk rock as well, which to me, was about being honest and real. That resonated with me a lot back then and still does today. Good music is real.
How would you describe the music that you typically create?
I like to call it Electric Folk. My latest album, Lines, is just guitar and vocals. They are simple and melodic songs that I try to build in an unusual way. I’m influenced by Bowie and Dylan. Two of the greatest artists and innovators. They were unpredictable and unforgettable. Other influences are artists like Elliott Smith, Glen Hansard, Bon Iver, Beirut, and Badly Drawn Boy.
Who would you most like to collaborate with?
Damon Albarn. I think he’s a great artist who loves to find new ways to make amazing music. He also seems like a solid human.
What would you be doing right now if it weren’t for your music career?
Hanging with my wife and kids.
If you could pass on a nugget of wisdom to the next musical generation, what would it be?
Don’t limit yourself to a genre. Or even a generation. Music has limitless potential. New sounds are found by building up influences in different ways. Learn about music. Listen to a lot of music. And then let it take control.
If you were to write an autobiography, what would the title be?
Hope. Haha. It’s my last name, but it’s also what keeps me going.
If you could be a superhero, what would your superpower be and your superhero name be?
Definitely, the ability to fly. Birdman. Or The Bird. Or the Man who could Fly…
You are a new addition to a crayon box. What color would you be and why?
Probably a moody green.
Who would you want to play you in a movie of your life?
Paul Rudd
If you were talking to a younger version of you, what advice would you give yourself?
Have patience. Keep pushing in the direction that you want to go. And never give up.