Let’s Be Frank: Frank Turner visits DU Music Society

Aoife Donnellan attends Frank Turner’s much anticipated visit to the GSU, documenting his Q&A session with DU Music Soc’s Cliona Lynskey, and his acceptance of the Honorary Patronage Award.

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He attributes this strength to the way that he creates his music, explaining that “if what you’re making isn’t the most exciting thing you’ve made so far, then it’s not done”.

On Wednesday evening, Trinity welcomed Frank Turner (an English singer-songwriter, for those who are yet to witness his lyrical genius) into the cosy, couch-filled surrounds of the Graduate Student Union Common Room.

Mr Turner was interviewed by DU Music Society’s Cliona Lynskey and presented with an Honorary Patronage Award on the evening in front of an enthusiastic group of fans.

The overarching message throughout the evening was that we all must endeavour to “put our feet in the fire” when it comes to the creative process.

Having released six studio albums, the performer explains how staying relevant is something he is still coming to terms with. He played his 1976th show with his band “The Sleeping Souls” in The Olympia on Tuesday night, his biggest show in Dublin to date- it is obvious that Frank Turner is only going from strength to strength.

He attributes this strength to the way that he creates his music, explaining that “if what you’re making isn’t the most exciting thing you’ve made so far, then it’s not done”. The intense passion that Frank Turner has for his craft is obvious every time the topic of creating music is approached.

When asked what advice he would give to up-and-coming musicians, he responded, “nobody has any idea what they’re doing anymore, and that’s a really good thing”. The idea of being in charge of your own creative process is obviously of great importance to him.

On the topic of his life as a performer, Turner explained that if you want to commit to the music industry, “you don’t get to go to weddings, birthdays or funerals” and that physically, he is in disrepair. He discussed how, in a way, this weeds out who is truly dedicated to the cause. He feels that the idea that one can play music for a living outweighs any hardships.

A true gentleman, and effortlessly eloquent, Frank Turner is not to be missed next time he rolls into town- no doubt, with bigger and brighter things.