Hozier: What I’m Thankful For

Thanksgiving is not a tradition celebrated in Europe, though I think the idea of reminding oneself of what we have to be thankful for is very worthwhile. It’s so easy to take the day-by-day for granted, and in turn the weeks and months.

This year I’m thankful for so much, it’s been an incredible year for me professionally. This time last year I never would have believed I’d be where I am now, or the opportunities that have come my way. I’m still getting my head around it.

I’m thankful for the hard work put in by everyone around me, the label team, the band, the live crew, my management and everyone behind the scenes. It’s one thing to work towards your own dream, but to have others working and supporting you on that road is something very special, to have people believing in your work. I lucked out with the people around me. I feel incredibly fortunate in that regard.

I’m thankful for the new people I’ve met in the last year, and the people I’ve worked with. I continue to be encouraged and inspired by the enthusiasm and drive of other people, it pushes me to do better.

I’m thankful for the fans who keep me in the job and making me feel so welcome overseas. Their encouragement and support can really make the difference on the tougher days. Sometimes the idea that somebody else might believe in you can be enough to tie you over until the day you yourself do.

I’m thankful for my close friends and family who I don’t get to see as much as I’d like but I know are there. I’m thankful that if all this goes wrong, I’ve a family at home who would welcome me with open arms. Their support and friendship keeps me grounded and I’m thankful for the time coming up at Christmas where I can spend time with everyone again.

Andrew Hozier-Byrne, known as Hozier, is a musician.