Gavin James Transforms Dublin Pub into Music Hub for Emerging Talent

Irish music artist Gavin James has announced ambitious plans to transform his newly acquired pub, Doyle’s Corner, located in Phibsborough, Dublin, into a vibrant venue for emerging bands. The singer-songwriter, who purchased the establishment in November 2024, aims to create a space that fosters local talent while promoting a lively music scene.

During an interview with the Irish Sun, James expressed his commitment to making the pub a success, noting that the venue “was hopping” ahead of a recent concert by the band Oasis at nearby Croke Park. Reflecting on the atmosphere, he said, “I was in there for pre-Oasis pints which was very fun.”

James plans to host his album launch shows at the pub, indicating that he intends to build a stage and install a quality sound system. He envisions it as a hub for college students and local musicians, stating, “It’d be just a really buzzy place to have gigs on every night.” He highlighted the lack of venues available for young bands, emphasizing the need for such a space in the north side of the city.

The singer is dedicated to fostering a local music culture and aims to be actively involved in the venue’s growth over the next few years. “I’m going to do all I can to make it work,” he said. “Once I get everything ready it can start as a venue, and then I’ll have an idea how I can move it on from there.”

Unforgettable Musical Experiences

This summer, James attended what he described as the best gig of his life, the Oasis concert at Croke Park on August 17, 2024. He recalled the experience with enthusiasm, stating, “It was the best gig I’ve been to in my whole life.” His excitement was palpable as he shared a memorable moment with a friend who asked to be lifted onto his shoulders during the performance of “Champagne Supernova.”

As he prepares for the release of his new album, Goldrush, James retreated to the countryside for a week without his phone to focus on his songwriting. “I turned off my phone, and did absolutely nothing other than write songs,” he explained. This creative retreat in Kilkenny proved fruitful, yielding around 120 songs over two years, with the final selection culminating in a twelve-song album.

Career Highlights and Recent Surprises

Since his debut in 2012 with the viral EP “Say Hello,” which won the Song of the Year at the 2013 Meteor Choice Music Prize Awards, James has achieved significant milestones in his career. He signed with Capitol Records and released his successful studio album, Bitter Pill, which debuted at number five on the Irish charts.

In a recent heartwarming moment, James surprised a couple by performing his hit “Always” at their wedding in Wexford. The surprise was orchestrated by the bride’s brother, who had built a rapport with the artist after a previous encounter. “It was amazing,” he said of the experience, capturing the joy of the unexpected performance.

With the release of Goldrush on the horizon and his plans for Doyle’s Corner taking shape, Gavin James is poised to make a lasting impact on both the Dublin music scene and his fans. His dedication to nurturing local talent and creating memorable experiences reflects his passion for music and community.